Uncertainty Looms Over the Future of the New Gas-Powered Blazer
The Chevrolet Blazer was introduced to the U.S. market in 2019 and achieved its highest sales figures in 2020, a year heavily impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, with nearly 95,000 units sold. However, it has struggled to maintain that momentum, experiencing a significant decline in demand over the past year, with sales dropping by 20% compared to 2023.
When approached for an official statement regarding the Blazer's future, a Chevrolet spokesperson declined to comment on the report, stating only that the company had no model updates to announce at this time.
For reference, Chevrolet manufactures the Blazer at its Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico, which also produces several GM electric vehicles, including the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Cadillac Optique, and Honda Prologue. Automotive News recently reported that GM has reduced operations at this facility by cutting a production shift, leaving the plant running on just two shifts. This move reflects a downturn in new car sales, further complicated by higher tax rates imposed on vehicles built in Mexico when sold in the U.S. due to policies implemented during President Trump's administration. Notably, the Mexican Ministry of Economy announced via Twitter in January 2023 that GM intended to transition the Ramos Arizpe plant exclusively to electric vehicle production by 2024. However, that deadline has since passed without full implementation.
The Blazer shares its platform with the Cadillac XT5 and XT6, both of which, according to GM Authority, could also face discontinuation after 2025. While reports strongly indicate that Chevrolet may phase out the gas-powered Blazer, the all-electric variant remains a confirmed part of the company's future production plans. In September 2024, Chevrolet launched the high-performance Blazer SS 2025, an all-electric model delivering 595 horsepower. This EV is set to be available in global markets within the year, with a starting price of $61,995, approximately 232,481 Saudi riyals.
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