Overview & Reviews

Model-year 2002 was a defining moment for the TrailBlazer. That year saw the midsize SUV benefiting from a redesign that made it a much more competitive player in its segment. It also saw the launch of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT, an extended-wheelbase version of the popular sport-utility vehicle.

The TrailBlazer EXT gave you everything a TrailBlazer did, plus an extended wheelbase and a third-row seat that enabled it to accommodate up to seven passengers. This means you benefited from all the good things offered by Chevy's best-selling midsize SUV of the time -- most notably, a long list of standard features and a cushy highway ride. Unfortunately, you also got the not-so-good things, like uninspired interior design and dull steering and handling that became restive when the road got twisty.

The breakout stars of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT's lineup were its engines. The SUV's 4.2-liter inline-6 charmed us with 275 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque (power jumped to 291 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque in 2006), giving it more grunt than was offered by many competing V8s. For heavy-duty towing, a 5.3-liter V8 was available that churned out 290 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque (boosted to 300 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque in 2005). With all that power underfoot, we really wanted to love the TrailBlazer EXT, but shortcomings regarding its handling and cabin kept it from fully capturing our hearts. Model-year 2006 marked the end of the line for this king-sized SUV. More information about the TrailBlazer model can be found here.

User Reviews:

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  Dont buy one - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By MSA - November 29 - 8:20 pm

  This car needed to a new transmission and 34,000 miles. At 52,000 miles the water pump went, and at 55,000 miles the air-conditioning compressor went. Stay away from this car.

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  Worst Investment Ever - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By missy89 - November 22 - 8:20 am

  I bought the car used 3 years ago with 43,000 miles on it. Since then Ive had to nothing but problems: -Needed a new starter -Drivers side window motor -Heater wires melted and needed to be replaced ($300 fix) -Gas sensor does not work ($700 fix) - 2 wheelbearings - New Battery - Throttle body cleaning (felt like the car would die out when idling) - back emblem fell off - New Transmission at 100,000 Only positive- great in the snow

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  Great Utility Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By jwoodie - November 12 - 7:26 am

  Although the extremely long wheelbase of this vehicle impairs parking lot maneuvering, it also provides a limosine-like ride and amazing interior room. I am not aware of any other SUV which can transport a 4x8 sheet of plywood entirely inside the vehicle! Also, the third seat is very comfortable for two adults. The V8 engine has more power yet gets the same gas mileage as the 6. Replacing the stock Continental tires greatly improved overall handling.

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  Satisfaction - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Cway - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I am ultimatly pleased with the vehicle thus far. Ride quality is exeptional and engine has more then enough huevos. I really feel you get alot of vehicle for the price.

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  I Love My Baby! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Jenny - August 8 - 9:40 pm

  I love the sporty look, comfort, size, stability, and all the added features. I bought just about every feature offered and couldnt be more happy. The only down side so far is the low fuel mileage, its rated at 18mpg HW according to the sticker and Im only getting 13. I dont pass too many gas stations. There is rarely a day that goes by that I dont get a compliment on it. I love the safety features also, one of my favorites is the built in cell phone. Too many drivers on the road are preoccupied with their cells that they just dont pay enough attention. I would definitely recommend the Trailblazer to anyone interested in purchasing an SUV.

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  Love my Trailblazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By DianeS - August 2 - 10:00 am

  We just love this truck! It has excellent performance (V8) and a beautiful interior. We have all the bells and whistles on it including a DVD player and 3rd row seat making those long trips with the kids a little more peaceful. The gas mileage is surprisingly good, and the interior is very comfortable for up to 8 people. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone interesed in a SUV.

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  Hawaiian Trailblazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By paurdy - July 30 - 9:06 am

  It does feel a little rocky around corners. The fuel economy is average for a vehicle of this size I suppose. Other than that, I love my Trailblazer.

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  Fantastic truck ! - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Charlie - July 26 - 3:56 pm

  I bought this particular vehicle as it was one of the few vehicles out there that I could fit my 3 yr old daughters wheelchair inside without having to take it apart. It handles perfectly and the ride is as smooth as a luxury car !

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  TRAILBLAZER EXT 04 MODEL - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By carbuyer2 - May 14 - 10:00 am

  After a twelve hour shift in the ER you really need a smooth ride home, especially at midnight. It definately is a smooth ride. The kids love it as much as I do. Going on vacation is not a problem any more. The rear seat entertainment system allows the kids to listen to one of their Cds on headphones in the back, and my husband and I are allowed the radio or cassette player at the same time, not to mention we have plenty of room for the suitcases!The only thing I have found is in the winter when we leave the car to heat up we usually leave it around 90 or 80 degrees, and the car sets itself to 70.

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  Never Again! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Former GM owner - March 26 - 7:06 am

  Rear air compressor, fan motor, complete brake system (twice!), front wheel bearings and now, the transmission is shot! All at 48,500 miles! Virtually every big ticket repair that could go wrong, did. Awful, awful piece of crap. Tends to slip in even mildly wet weather, overall poor traction anyway. Creature comforts are average at best. Ill never again buy this car and wouldnt recommend it to anyone, no matter what the price!