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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By gyhooya - August 26 - 2:00 amgreat suv, fun to drive, great economy, great engine
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Very safe vehicle to drive - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By rnavarro - August 25 - 2:00 amI have had no problems with the car. I did, however, get in a pretty serious accident with it and walked away without a scratch. I would highly recommend this vehicle to people concerned about safety.
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2003 Chevy Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Mr. Swift - August 22 - 2:00 amI like my Chevy Trailblazer for many different reasons, like everything is user friendly,within the drivers reach,you dont have to stretch to reach anything. There is a lot of leg room in the front and the back. The hatchback part,I think is great do to the fact the back window raises for access, or you can pull a handle and the whole door raises,which allows for many different uses. The only bad thing I can say about it is the engine compartment,for most average shade tree machanics like me you can pop the hood and see were everything is, not on this one,I still havent found the spark plugs, everything else is easy to find.
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Will never purchase GM again! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By MrAce - August 21 - 2:00 amWe fell into the purchase of this Trailblazer. Previously owned a Pontiac Montana EXT which turned out to be the worst vehicle ever. Tried to trade in for a foreign vehicle and could not get rid of it. Went to Chevy, and of course, they allowed us to trade for the Trailblazer. I loved the vehicle at first, exactly one year after puchase the transmission broke. Fortuneately, we have had not other tranny problems (knock on wood). The wind noise is pronounced, the luggage rack squeaks when outside temperature is cold, and had to replace rear brake light. Gas mileage is horrible for an in-line six. Bottom line, I will never buy another GM vehicle EVER!
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Great truck based SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By BobnSue - August 13 - 2:00 amThis is a great all around SUV for those who need a heavy duty truck based SUV. The 4.2L engine tows heavy loads with ease. The ride is comfortable and the handling is better than a full size SUV such as a Tahoe. The mpg is only slightly better than a full size SUV. We average about 15mpg in mixed driving conditions. This is a very good vehicle with the 4WD if you live in an area that has a snowy winter. The build quality on GM products has been improving. Our Trailblazer has had a couple recalls and now it needs new brake rotors after only 11,000 miles, I hope this is not be a problem to get it repaired under warranty.
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GREAT RIDE-MANY PROBLEMS - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ERNIEOSD - July 31 - 10:00 amI HAVE (HAD) THE EXT MODEL AND AS FAR AS A RIDE IT RODE AS WELL AS MY LEXUS. BUT, THAT IS WHERE THE COMPARISON ENDED. MULTIPLE SERIOUS PROBLEMS WITH ENGINE AND POWER TRAIN WERE OVERWHELMING.... THAT IS WHY I NO LONGER OWN THE CAR. DEALER WAS EXCEPTIONAL IN HANDLING MY COMPLAINTS AND ISSUES. I ALSO BELIEVE THAT IN FAIRNESS, I DONT KNOW OF ANYONE WHO HAS BOUGHT THE REGULAR LENGTH MODEL THAT HAS HAD ANY OF THESE PROBLEMS EXCEPT FOR THE EXCESSIVE WIND NOISE ABOVE 40 MILES AN HOUR.
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Going broke - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Going broke - July 31 - 10:00 amNice looking, comfortable and quite with plenty of power. I now have 3300 mi. and still waiting for the engine to break in so the fuel mileage improves, according to dealer. I get about 13 mpg in city. With such a small gas tank, Im on first name basis with all the people at the gas stations. The Tblazer also has sensitive steering, scarey at times. Also lots of defects in the sheet medal.
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Unhappy in Minnesota - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Unhappy in Minnesota - July 31 - 2:00 amI wish I could get all my money back and start over! My first experience with a Chevrolet product has not been a good one. The Trailblazer (TB) has been in every 1000 miles or less for a front differential leak (3 times). I am experiencing what appears to be a transmission problem. I have had very minor problems with new vehicles, but nothing as serious as the TB. For the price, Chevrolet should really have more standard bells and whistles. The dealer is great, but the product leaves much to be desired. Sure hope Chevrolet can make me change my feelings. My TB has gotten to be the joke around work.
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Good Buy - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Tamrs - July 27 - 2:00 amWhen I first thought of truck to buy this was my first choice. I still was careful and test drove all of the other SUV in the same class. The trailblazer was built better and looked better. A great buy for a mom with children. Dont forget to get the DVD and the third row seat. I will be going back this year to get a new trailblazer with all the extras. Thanks GM!
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Unsatisfied Customer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By sherrie - July 26 - 2:00 amThe relationship with my 2003 Trailblazer is one of love/hate. Fun to drive, when it works. Lots of cargo space and roomy for 7 people. Drivers seat is like a cockpit with tons of buttons and controls. BUT... the engine and electronics has been unreliable. The 4x4 switch has failed 4 times in 15 months, requiring in- shop servicing for more than 15 days. While on vacation, the windshield wipers failed during a major rain storm (stuck in on position) and we had to pay for a rental car. Tail pipe is already rusting and we have a squeek (that cant be found) in the front end. Although I love to drive the car... it will have to go!
