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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  No Regrets - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By B Saunders - January 17 - 10:00 am

  This Trailblazer XLT replaced my Ford Exposition. More power and better fuel mileage is a plus. Also has more cargo room behind third row seats. Have taken several long road trips (600 miles plus) and the ride was nice and more comfortable than my Exposition. I have also towed over 4,500 lb with no trouble and plenty of power to spare.

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  Mikes TrailBlazer EXT - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Mike - August 21 - 2:06 pm

  Very comfortable ride, like driving down the road in your recliner. Smooth responsive steering. Good sound system. 3rd row seat is very convenient. Folds down easily for extra room and storage. Only downs are the obtrusive rear view mirror and non-aesthetic dash and controls.

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  03 TB Ext, 94K miles, Original Owner - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By 03tbext - April 24 - 5:17 pm

  Had this from day one. Just had dealer replace the exhaust manifold ($100 cost to me, could have beem $770). Cracking of the manifold is common, rear of the O2 sensor. If you smell exhaust under the hood when cold and freshly started, as well as a strange noise that clears up in 3-5 minutes, you have the problem. GM covered this up to 8 years and 80K miles for free, I was lucky to get for $100. Thanx GM :) Replaced all four antisway links myself, easy (gets rid of clunking when going over bumps). Also had to replace all four brake rotors and pad sets. Very happy with the Rugged Trail T/As, 94K mi. on the remaining orig. pair. Installed K&N cold air intake kit, no diff in econ.

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  The Gas Mileage is HORRIBLE - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By KBAA - August 14 - 3:20 am

  If you want to get good mileage then USE your CRUISE! I tried to just keep my speed consistant without cruise control going up a medium sized hill and it was all I could do to stay at my speed....much less accelerate. The car is smooth driving but I would recommend getting this vehicle if you live on flat terrain.

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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 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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  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.