2001 Chevrolet Blazer K5 Concept

Chevy brought back the K5 name in 2001 for a bold concept SUV that mixed elements of the classic Blazer with modern features. Shown at the Detroit Auto Show, the K5 Concept was based on a two-door Tahoe but added a short pickup-style cargo bed and a removable carbon-fiber roof panel.

What really stood out were the rear-hinged back doors. These smaller, aircraft-style doors opened 180 degrees and, with no B-pillar, created a wide opening to make loading easier. Inside, the back seats folded flat, turning the rear area into a six-foot cargo space. With the seats up, there was still room for passengers.

The K5 had a tough, clean look: nickel-colored grille, exposed tow hooks, fog lights, wide fender flares, and 18-inch Budnik wheels. Inside, it came with leather seats, carbon-fiber trim, and a digital instrument cluster borrowed from the Avalanche. OnStar was also built in, with voice calling and navigation.

Under the hood, Chevy dropped in a 6.0L V8 making 440 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The engine had ported LS1 heads, forged pistons, and other upgrades, and sent power to all four wheels through a 4-speed automatic.

Chevy never put the K5 Concept into production, but it showed what a modern two-door SUV could look like—tough, useful, and just a bit different.