Overview & Reviews

Introduced for 2002 and produced through 2009, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer was one of the most popular midsize SUVs in America. Qualities like a smooth ride, a roomy cabin, plentiful features and an inexpensive price made it a hit with consumers early in the model cycle. But fleet operators picked up much of the slack in the later years as consumers went with more refined crossover rivals. Based on our testing experience, the TrailBlazer left much to be desired as a midsize SUV.

Although modern luxury features such as navigation and rear-seat DVD entertainment were available, this SUV's handling dynamics were more state-of-the-past than state-of-the-art. The standard Chevy TrailBlazer's unresponsive suspension and imprecise steering wouldn't inspire confidence on back road detours or during quick transitions on the expressway. In past years, traditional body-on-frame SUVs like the TrailBlazer weren't expected to handle well in these situations. But times changed and virtually all of the Chevy's rivals offered superior road manners. Another major drawback was the TrailBlazer's cabin design. It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.

From a performance standpoint, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS was an interesting choice, as it addressed the SUV's handling woes via substantial tuning to the chassis and steering. The SS also provided rip-roaring performance, courtesy of a 6.0-liter V8. But in the grand scheme of things, the SS was a niche vehicle. For a workaday midsize SUV, other truck-based competitors would serve you better than the standard Chevrolet TrailBlazer.

Most Recent Chevrolet TrailBlazer

As a unique model, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer debuted for 2002, though the name "TrailBlazer" was actually in use previously as an upscale trim level for the regular four-door Blazer SUV. After the TrailBlazer's debut, Chevy slowly phased out the Blazer and let the TrailBlazer become its main truck-based midsize SUV. There was also an extended-wheelbase version called the TrailBlazer EXT that offered seven-passenger seating and class-leading cargo room. At the time, the 4.2-liter inline-6 made 270 horsepower.

There were other changes over the years. The big news for 2003 was a special North Face Edition trim package and the availability of a 290-hp 5.3-liter V8 in the extended TrailBlazer EXT, while the next couple of years saw a host of evolutionary improvements like increased availability of the V8, power-adjustable pedals, restyled seating, side curtain airbags, DVD-based navigation, CD/MP3 audio and satellite radio.

The hotter, performance-oriented Chevy TrailBlazer SS packing a 391-hp 6.0-liter V8 debuted in 2006. This was also the year that the 5.3-liter V8 became available for non-EXT models and the inline-6 engine's output rose to 291 hp. The TrailBlazer EXT was dropped for '07. The 5.3-liter V8 was likewise history for 2009 and the TrailBlazer itself was gone for 2010.

Throughout most of the TrailBlazer's model run, there were three main trim levels: base LS, luxury-themed LT and high-performance SS. The LS came decently equipped, while the LT provided access to some higher-level features such as leather seating. Chevrolet offered two different packages for the SS model. The basic TrailBlazer SS (1SS) was equipped similarly to the LS but featured a powerful V8, a sport-tuned chassis, 20-inch wheels and a monochromatic exterior with black mesh grille. The uplevel version of the TrailBlazer SS (3SS) added all the LT's amenities. Apart from a white-faced tachometer and "SS" monograms on the seats, there was nothing special about the SS interior.

Although a four-speed automatic transmission was standard across the board, there was a choice of two- or four-wheel drive (4WD) except in the SS, which could have either two- or all-wheel drive.

Behind the wheel, we found that the Chevrolet TrailBlazer's suspension was a mixed bag -- its soft tuning resulted in a soft, comfortable ride around town and on the highway. But push it hard into a corner or hit the rough stuff too fast and the TrailBlazer's overly compliant setup would get out of sorts quickly. Most buyers would likely find the inline-6 engine adequate, though it's definitely lacking in low-end torque compared to some rivals' V6 offerings. Our test of the TrailBlazer SS revealed an altogether different beast that felt more like a muscle car than an SUV. It ripped to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds – or about as quick as a Dodge Charger R/T. Better yet, the SS model's modified chassis was capable of handling all that power. When pushed through twists and turns, the SS's body motions were well controlled and its steering feel was excellent.

User Reviews:

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  Love mine! - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By L. Reeve - June 22 - 5:14 pm

  Bought my 2008 in 2008. Have 40K mi. on it now. (3 road trips). Pulls my travel trailer like its not there and I get over 18 mpg. while pulling it! I get 19.8 in town. I have had no issues with it at all except a rattle where the sun roof is. One road trip was long and it was extremely comfortable. I have three Boxers and they all fit comfortably in the rear. No mechanical problems whatsoever. Sorry they arent still making them!

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  And he walked away - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By TOTALED WALKED AWAY - June 14 - 9:01 pm

  My son Ryan, age 24, was cut off while driving on I-95. He lost control and spun across 5 south-bound lanes and slammed into a concrete barrier. The 03 Trailblazer was a complete total. But the built-in safety features absorbed most of the energy while the airbags and seat belts did their job. Ryan walked away with a minor neck sprain. I have nothing but high praise for Chevrolet building such safe and crash-worthy vehicle.

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  Unhappy - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By joey - June 14 - 4:49 pm

  When we bought the c truck it was good ride after a couple of month I started hearing air zipping in from outside and I took it in and they told me that that was the outside mirror design but I did not swallow that, then a couple of recalls came in and I learn to live with it. After I finish it paying off the car about a year later the problems began and after a ton of trips to the dealer and about $ 7000.00 dollar I regret the day I purchase that vehicle, from transmission to coils, spark plugs sensor etc, etc is been change on that vehicle and steal have problems. So I will never again by a Chevrolet vehicle in my life. Im a very unhappy car owner.

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  This Truck - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Ashlie - June 10 - 11:33 am

  I bought this truck almost brand new in 2006. Within 2 months the struts went out. Then the radiator then to top it all off for no reason I had to get a new motor in 2009. I dont understand how one truck can have so many problems. I dont understand how people are so happy with this truck.

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  Sad to see the TrailBlazer leave - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By This is worth a look - June 6 - 12:40 am

  After the 2009 Model year GM has discontinued the TrailBlazer and has replaced with with the new Equinox. I test drove a new Equinox last week and was VERY unhappy with it. The vehicle had no power (even with the V6) and the gas mileage was a far cry from what they had claimed. I have had an 04 Trailblazer which was just traded in on a 2010 Acadia and I still have my 2008 Trailblazer. Just cant part with her. There is just something about the exterior look of the LT and the strong acceleration that really sold me. I plan on keeping it until the doors fall off! 45K and not a single problem yet!

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  My Experinece - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rod3simmons - June 3 - 9:04 am

  I bought my TB LS in 2007 w/ 18,000k. Im currently operating this vehicle w/ 89,000. I have replaced the fuel pump, my LO Headlamps are in-opt, and Ive had interior issues from poor material. I have used this vehicle for daily commute to work and family trips. Im currently experiencing engine knocking. I have maintained proper oil changes, etc. I am looking at trading this vehicle in for a more reliable sedan with better mpg. I will likely have to hold on the this vehicle a little longer in order to finance another vehicle due to negative equity on the TB.

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  Trailblazer - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Brian - June 1 - 1:57 pm

  Love it. Gas mileage poor 15city/21 (maybe 22 downhill) highway. Better highway mileage with 87 or better octane. It is a SUV. Purchased used with 16k miles on it in 08. Do a nearly cross-country trip every year so was looking for a vehicle like this. I can pile most of the kids soccer team in it. Now have 92k miles on so far. Other than check engine light (think it went on at 75k) and gas gauge not working (I let it run out of gas and hasnt worked since) its been a great vehicle.

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  Overall Good Car - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jim garcia - May 29 - 8:52 am

  I bought this car and drove problem free for about five months then, at 63,000 miles the transmission went out. luckily the car was still under warranty (It would have cost me $3100). since this replacement in December 2008 I have had no major problems with the car. The Trailblazer is very comfortable and has plenty of power, even for towing light loads. The steering and engine are both very smooth feeling and make it pleasant to go on long trips across country. This car does very good in the snow and in very light off road applications. overall the gas mileage is good with about 20 on the freeway in town is 14 mpg.

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  Cam Sensor out at 52,000 miles - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By James - May 23 - 10:58 pm

  I havent had this car a year, it has less than 53k miles and the cam sensor malfunctioned. To replace also requires a tune up, as the failure fouled the plugs. Fix - $706. This is the reason I dont buy American made cars.

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  Love/ Hate - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By lss - May 20 - 12:46 pm

  I have had my t-blazer for 5+ years. It had 99,000 but I have made several major repairs. Thank god we got the extended warranty. The exhaust manifold had to be replaced twice now, catalytic converter, DVD system, now the fuel gauge is not working and it is leaking tranny fluid. I am keeping it as long as I can but I think after 3 GM with problems I am moving on.