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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  Trailblazer LT 4WD EXT 5.3 L V8 - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Charles - November 11 - 4:46 pm

  This vehicle is mainly excellent! Never taken to the dealer for any warranty work...in fact have never taken to the dealer.(all service work done at other shops...all service work done) V8 is the best choice...glad I "forced" the dealer to find me a V8. I drive many highway miles, very comfortable and overall fuel mileage in 20 MPG. Waiting till they come out with a Hybrid!

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  C - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By c - August 9 - 12:43 am

  I also love this vehicle! It came loaded with useful features, and is very solid, GM have come a long way. Interior and exterior are clean and blend very well. The adjustable foot pedals, drivers steering wheel controls, DVD, 3rd row folding seats are great. There is excellent power, towing and off road capability. My wife, who is the biggest vehicle critic I know, loves this new vehicle.

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  2004 Chevytrailblazer Ext 4x4 - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By EZDA4 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is awesome! It handles great in all weather, especially the snow. It is a very smooth ride, all the way to the back seat. It is a great family vehicle. There is tons of space. We are very pleased with everything the Ext Trailblazer has to offer. The only negative thing I have to say is that it isnt very good on gas but that comes with buying an SUV.They did a great job on all the amenities.

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  I Love My 2005 TrailBlazer EXT - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Mari - June 24 - 6:03 am

  This is my first SUV, so perhaps Im biased. I just love my 2005 Trailblazer EXT. For me and my three children, it has more than enough room, rides smooth, little to no road noise, and lots of head room.

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  Mini-Van Never More - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By jbowen81 - June 10 - 10:00 am

  We have three kids and have historically been a mini-van family. Well the toddlers have turned into teens and the space needed to haul all there stuff has grown. The Trailblazer is just what we needed. Lots of comfort and room for the three kids , their friends and all their stuff. And with the 275 horses -- never a concern with getting up and going on the highway. We bought the DVD system which makes longer trips more fun for all. And for when we are all together, I bought a Thule roof carrier that gives us the ability to carry lots and stay comfortable. The mileage has been surprisngly good -- not much different from the vans we had. We love it!

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  TrailBlazer Review - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By dtjump - February 15 - 4:00 am

  Excellent handling, power, towing and off road capability. Superior to any import, because The Trail Blazer LT can do it all. It also has more than adequate seating room and cargo room. The top of the line leather interial is equal or better than the import competition. Quality of workmanship is clearly evident throughout the vehicle. I dont think that the automotive press gives this or anyother American made vehicle an honest appraisal, given the difference between the editors (they arent experts) and consumers (they are experts) ratings. The lack of fake wood does not equate to inferior materials. This is one of the most capable vehicles on the road or off road.

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  So Far So Good! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By Big Dog - December 31 - 1:40 pm

  Purchased as an "always wish I had one" car and ours was on the lot with all the goodies. Nav System could be a little easier to use but once you get the hang of it, its great. DVD system too and its been a suprise how often we use it with an 11 yr old. Gas mileage about what we thought, Very easy to drive and comfort is great. Have had electonics issues with the memory seats but handled well by the dealer. Very good trailer tow ability too, suspension is great.

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  my dream car - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By nursechell - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I have liked this vehicle for almost three years. I didnt buy one until they had the extended version. I am extremely happy with this SUV. It rides well, sits up high (but not too high), and gets okay gas milage for the kind of SUV that it is... The price has gone up now that they are popular, thats the only drawback.

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  Smooth 5.3L V8 - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By John - September 22 - 4:26 pm

  The smoothest SUV I have ever driven. I love taking road trips with this vehicle. Acceleration is excellent, suspension is wonderful, and with that 3rd row theres room for everyone. I drove a Honda Pilot, Toyota 4runner, Mitsubishi Endeavor, toyota sequoia, lincoln navigator, and yet none of those cars come close to the smoothness of an EXT Trailblazer. Excellent job GM. Japanese may have the advantage when it comes to small compact cars, but its all hands down to American when it comes down to the SUV segment.

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  I am truly impressed - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
  By LaKetha - June 1 - 2:00 am

  I am truly impressed with this vehicle. After shopping between several vehicles like the GMC Envoy, Isuzu Ascender, and the Dodge Durango. I found the Trailblazer to be the most spacious, confortable, and bascially more bang for my buck. I enjoy the Free On-Star and complete power control from the steering wheel. Never Doubt "THE ROCK" Very pleased, LaKetha Prioleau