The Evolution of the Gas Grill

We all know that in 1952, Weber started with the invention of the iconic kettle that provides excellent control over cooking with charcoal.

In the 1970s and early1980s, we brought that same kettle idea into the gas grill arena. There were stand-alone gas kettles, post-mount kettles and gas kettles in a cart. And so it began!

In the early 80s, through 90s, we had a little portable model we called the Hot Shot Table Top Gas Grill. We all know it today by its new name, the Gas Go-Anywhere.

By 1985, we joined the trend toward “square” stand up gas grills, and launched our Genesis 1, Genesis 2 and Genesis 3 models, that featured an open cart design with Redwood work surfaces, porcelain enameled grates, our patented Flavorizer bars, push button ignition, a grease management system, a side burner on the Genesis 3 and many other cool things! From here, there was no stopping us!

By the late ‘80s, the Genesis XX and XXI (later known as Genesis Jr., Genesis 4 and Genesis 5 were born, giving more options in size and design, including glass doors on the 4 and 5 models and various upgrades.

In the early ‘90s, the next generation of Genesis models was launched. They were Genesis 1000-5000 models with more upgrades, design changes and “offspring” variations specific to certain retailers, such as the Genesis LX and Skyline models. Wood and Durawood tables were on various Genesis models.

We also introduced the Spirit 500/700 series, Platinum series and the first Summit series of grills. With these Weber products, you could find any gas grill to fit your needs and budget with our lineup of 2 burner, 3 burner, 4 burner and 6 burner models. Most were open cart models, but the Platinum and Summit series also could be purchased with a closed cart for storage. Side burners came with some models, but could be added to others. The Summit series also included 4 and 6 burner built-in models.

In 2000, we introduced our Genesis Silver, Gold and Platinum series. Most were open cart models, but the Platinums included a closed cart version. Thermoset tables were featured on the Silver models, porcelain tables on the Gold, and stainless steel on the Platinum.

2002-2005, we came out with our StopWatch Engineering Genesis Silver, Gold and Platinum models. These grills could be assembled start to finish in 10 minutes……..and we had the videos to prove it! Very simple designs, easy for consumers! The Summit models changed to Silver, Gold and Platinum versions, mostly assembled on delivery. These models had lots of stainless steel (lids, cabinets) - some models with stainless tables, while others had thermoset.

2004 was the year we premiered our Baby Q (now called Q 1000) and Q (now called 2000) series. These portables brought a whole new dimension to tailgating, picnics and small get-togethers. Its unique shape fit right in with the Weber style of closed lid cooking. We now have Q 1200, Q 2200 and the Q 3200 – a larger version in a standup gas grill. Perfect for those with smaller spaces to grill.

2007-8, we totally redesigned our gas grill line with the Spirit E/SP, Genesis E/S and Summit E/S series. Cabinets, lots of colors, stainless steel, Tuck-away rotisseries, handle lights and light up knobs on Summits, ……what more could you want?

By 2011, we created the Summit Grill Centers for those who wanted the extreme outdoor kitchen. You could get the Grill Center model, or get the Social area versions, with a left or right section that made an L-shaped grilling center.

We also redesigned the Genesis line, with the control knobs in front, sear burners and electronic ignition. The side burner was also moved to the right-hand side.

Did we stop there? Nope! 2013 we re-invented the Spirit line, with some models with fold-down tables, for those with space constraints. Knobs moved to the front of the grill, instead of the side on these, so Spirit, Genesis and Summit all had front-mount control.

But wait………there’s still more coming! Wait ‘til you see what is next!

We have totally redesigned the iconic Genesis line of grills offered in 2, 3, 4 or 6 burner models with great styling, new features and a model to fit everyone’s needs and budget! Genesis II and Genesis II LX have arrived!! Click here to learn more about this exciting new innovation.

We have open carts, we have closed carts! We have colors and stainless steel lids. The new GS4 Grilling System includes Infinity ignition, redesigned burners for high performance, stainless steel Flavorizer bars and a new grease management system to make cleaning easier. The LP tank (not included) is now outside the grill frame. All models are iGrill 3 compatible, so grilling like a pro becomes simple!

To enhance this product line, we added the S-310, a stainless steel version of the open cart Genesis II for 2018, featuring a stainless steel lid, stainless steel grates, Flavorizer bars and heat deflectors.

Also new for 2018 is our next generation of Spirit models, the Spirit II, featuring great new colors-- red, sapphire and ivory, in addition to black. Available in 2-burner and 3-burner models, they have an open-cart design and feature the GS4 Grilling System that includes Infinity ignition, stainless steel burners, porcelain-enameled Flavorizer bars and grease management system. All are iGrill 3 compatible (sold separately) to make you the greatest griller in the neighborhood.