A name last used in 2005 for the S-10 pick-up based mid-size SUV, the new Blazer slots in between the Equinox and seven-seat Traverse in the bowtie brand’s SUV/crossover line-up, with styling derived from the Camaro and a profile, from some angles, similar to that of the Maserati Levante.

The first Chevrolet model to be fitted with the brand’s so-called cargo management system which utilises a rail system and cargo net to divide smaller items form bigger ones, the Blazer, which rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels with 21-inches optional, boasts a number of brand firsts such as an electronic locking glove box, Hitch View and Hitch Guidance designed to aid hooking up to a trailer.

Available in two trim levels for now, RS and Premier, notable standard tech items consists of an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G LTE Wi-Fi, key fob activated electric windows, heated and ventilated steering wheel, outboard heated rear seats, wireless smartphone charging with up to six USB ports, hands-free electric tailgate and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Based on GM’s C1XX platform not only used by the Traverse but also the Cadillac XT5, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia, the Blazer will come powered by the same range of petrol engines as the latter, a 2.5-litre Ecotec making 143kW/255Nm and a retuned version of the 3.6-litre LFX V6 producing 227kW/365Nm.

A nine-speed automatic gearbox is the sole option on both, with all-wheel drive variants featuring what GM calls Traction Select that allows the rear axle to automatically disconnect from the front to aid consumption when all wheel traction is not needed.

To be built at GM’s Ramos Arizpe Plant in Mexico alongside the Traverse and Cruze, the Blazer will make its debut on US dealership floors in early 2019, but will remain forbidden fruit for South Africans following GM’s market withdrawal last year.