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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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:
Showing 1031 through 1040 of 1,336.00-
2002 LTZ reliability unknown - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By E Maz - May 12 - 2:00 amThere is very little storage space for the driver and front seat passanger. Electrical outlets conflict with the cupholder locations and the cupholders are very small. Front center console is mounted too far rearward and is not easily accessable to the driver.
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Great for any age - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By madcrafter - May 9 - 9:10 pmAnytime you want to go some where you never have to worry you always have enough room and power to go anywhere. I love the truck.
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Awesome SUV - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By hoozyershelties - May 8 - 2:00 amThe TrailBlazer offers the best ride, handling, and performance of any SUV I have ever driven or been a passenger in.
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My Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Merilyn Meaney - May 6 - 2:00 amA very easy SUV to drive. We travel from New Hampshire to Florida for the winters. And we feel very safe driving this SUV.
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2002 TrailBlazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Sunspot - May 5 - 2:00 amIt was/is a great vehicle
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Dont buy if you need reliability - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By GJez - May 3 - 2:00 am5000 miles, power steering pump failure, 9000 air conditioner failed, 13000 miles rear interior fans shorted out, 30000 started squealing but they dont know why.....35000 dumped!
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EXT Northface Edition V8 Loaded! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By KnifeNut - May 3 - 2:00 amI purchased this vehicle with every option available. Very nice vehicle overall with alot of toys to keep everyone busy. Reasonable comfort & space. Good ride on the highway & decently quiet. V8 is smooth & actually not that bad on gas. Definately a nice step up for Chevy, though they are still needing BIG improvements in quality.
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Mamas got a new Car!! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By 2004 Trailblazer - April 27 - 6:13 amI received my Chevy Trailblazer for Christmas in 2004, and I love it. I was driving a Mitisubishi Montero Sport and I thought I was in love with it, but when I drove the Trailblazer to the end of the road, I knew this was my destiny. I love it. I love it. I love it. When I drive it, I feel like I am sitting on top of the world. It is great. I named it "Blaze"
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DMJ TRAILER BLAZER - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By DAVEVYC - April 27 - 2:00 amDRIVE ABOUT 45 MILES A DAY ON THE HIGHWAY WITH NO PROBLEMS. TOOK IT IN TO THE CHEV DEALER FOR SERVICE ONLY THING WRONG 2 TAIL LIGHTS WERE OUT AN REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY.
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Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By dscvrmn - April 25 - 10:00 amGreat vehicle. Chevrolet is definetely coming around. They will be tops in quality again in no time if they keep it up.
