Chevrolet introduced the Blazer in 1983, gearing it toward people who wanted to pack the kids (maybe) and the dog and their camping gear (definitely) and head for the mountains, but who didn't want a huge truck like the Jeep Wagoneer. The Chevy Blazer was smaller and sportier, but could still go anywhere the driver pointed it. The Blazer was also a big hit among young guys who wanted to create macho super-trucks to go four-wheelin': The boys would start with an existing Blazer - often a cheap, beat-up used one - and replace the tires, suspension, and just about everything else.

The 1989 Chevrolet Blazer was equipped with standard rear-wheel antilock brakes for the first time. Its standard 2.8-liter V6 engine got a smoother, quieter transfer case in 1989. Also new that year were an optional rear window washer/wiper and an electronic instrument panel for high-tech display of usual dashboard information such as RPMs. Other new options included skid plates, alloy wheels, and automatic locking hubs. More-powerful optional engines for the '89 Chevy Blazer were a 4.3-liter, V6, a 160-hp motor based on Chevrolet's "Small-Block" V8, and a 6.2-liter V8.

Rust continued to be a serious problem for the '89 Blazer, and some owners reported problems with front wheel bearings as well. Most owners, however, seemed very pleased with their beasts and reported sturdy, reliable, long-lasting trucks.