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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  Loved the Truck but not Reliable - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By dacuna13 - July 28 - 2:10 am

  I havent had any problems with the vehicle until now. It has been well maintained and the transmission and engine went out at the same time at 54,000 miles.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Kingjeff - July 7 - 8:00 am

  Overall I loved this vehicle. The third row of seating even worked for adults for short trips. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seating folded flat enough to use the entire rear cargo area. Great set up for a family with more than 2 kids. The 4.2L had plenty of power and reliablility. My daughter ran this truck into a tree and crushed the front end up to the dash, totaling it. The air bag did not deploy however the passenger compartment maintained its integrity. She was extracated through the back seat door but sustained only bruising from the seat belt.

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  My first truck! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By cabooses - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I love my Trailblazer! I have 21,000+ miles on it and not had a problem really. The only manufacturer defect seems to be the rubber molding around the back rear window. There is also a problem with the fuel injection system that can be avoided if you change gas stations frequently and not visit the same one all the time. The ride is great and mine came fully loaded. I enjoy having the driver wheel controls at my fingertips and the amount of seats that are available with the 3 row seating. I feel safe driving this and the one touch 4WD and AWD advantage comes in handy on snowy and rainy days.

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  Love the Trailblazer EXT - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Coach - May 23 - 3:46 pm

  This is a great vehicle. The family has made four round-trips from NY to FL in this vehicle. Comfortable seats. Handles great. The kids love the DVD and the third row seating. This vehicle loves the open highway! As far as fuel economy, well its an SUV...what do you expect? In my opionion, this is a great vehicle. Would definitely purchase another.

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  An Enjoyable Fun To Drive Machine - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Pat - March 26 - 7:00 am

  I could not beleive the wonderful experience of driving the TrailBlazer LT. I traded in a truck for this SUV, and the experience has been the best. Its easier to drive than a car, and the comfort is very good. My family fits in and no complaints.The chairs, even the very last one at the back, are comfortable, even for long trips. We love it. Thanks GM!

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  Great Looks, Great Engine, Poor Mileage - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By 4Wheeler - March 24 - 2:00 am

  So far, So good. Just got the truck this week. Love the looks, puts my 2002 Blazer to shame. Handles great and love the loads of space. Would be a bit happier is the 3rd row seats folded all the way down.

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  Unexpectedly delighted - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Kath & Mike - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I used to be a Toyota-only driver. Then I purchased a Chevy Suburban about a year ago. I noticed the TrailBlazer EXT at the time, which I recently purchased for my family. I appreciate its power and its simplicity. Its fun to drive with plenty of room inside. From a value standpoint, theres really no comparison. With all the GM incentives, I estimate I purchased the TrailBlazer EXT for about 60% of the cost of a similarly equipped Highlander. Thats serious money. The interior may not be as refined, but its a better-looking vehicle on the outside, more powerful, and an outstanding value.

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  TRAILBALZER EXT LT - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By RAG67 - March 18 - 10:00 am

  BUILD QUALITY SEEMS TO BE EXCELLENT. I AM A LITTLE DISAPPOINTED IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THE 5.3 V-8. I ALSO AM LUKE WARM ABOUT THE WAY THE VEHICLE SITS UP IN THE REAR. SEATING FOR 6 IS TIGHT BUT ACCEPTABLE. SEATING FOR 7 IS A STRETCH.

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  Fun vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Lerah - January 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this 2002 vehicle in July of 2002. I have made numerous road trips. The ride is very comfortable, gas usage is decent, and the manueverability is excellent. It has the capacity of a large suv and the handling of a mid-size.