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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  The Skinny - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Gary Preston - March 26 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Trailblazer is a fun and peppy vehicle to drive. I have owned both a Buick Park Avenue and a Cadillac Sedan DeVille and the Trailblazer is a comfortable as either. We affectionately call ours the "Country Cadillac."

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  Do I have a lemon? - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By foodsgreat - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Our trailblazer has been back to the dealer several times for numerous reasons. The computer wouldnt reset the mirrors when I went to drive the car after my husband...the windshield wipers come on at random, just once to show us they will work should we need them...the rear door handles broke...and just last weekend it was in because the fan clutch had to be replaced. And to think weve only owned it a year. My dad has one for a company car and my aunt bought one for herself and they both have had NO problems with theirs.

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  LTZ Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Tracey12 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I love the look of the Trailblazer and have been happy with previous Chevys. Back cargo at perfect level for loading/unlaoding. Very roomy, comfortable seating. Only problem I have had is tire pressure going low. Had blow out at 3000 miles. Gas cap needs a little work to be put on properly.

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  Chevrolet 2004 Trailblazer LT - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By mbondsi - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have driven Suburbans for 30 years and have finally downsized to trailblazer. The 2004 is my second one, as I had a 2002 before. I absolutely LOVE my car! I have moved kids to and from college with room to spare and the improvements since the 2002 (easier seat collapse, seat heaters, better seatbelts, XM radio to name a few) make it a pleasure to drive! Just show me the road.

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  Wheres The Road? - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chevy Retread - March 18 - 10:00 am

  This is the question you will be asking yourself after driving this vehicle. The steering is so bad that you cannot feel the rood. The steering has NO center point at all. Too bad for the people at Chevy. A better steering set up and this thing could have given Exploer a run for the money. For now just another GM miss. Back to the drawing board for the company that just wont listen!

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  Nice Ride - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By ByteWitch - March 14 - 10:00 am

  After looking at and test driving every SUV out there, my number one selection was the 2002 Trail Blazer. This was right within my price range, has lots of buttons and extra features, and is one smooooooth ride!

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  Road Hog - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rayroll - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Hadan Accord, but felt I needed something larger. So far everything is great. The gas mileage could be better, but with this type of vehicle, you cant have it all. Looked at several SUVs, but they seemed to be designed for soccer moms, I wanted something more masculine looking. Towing cabability is excellent. It doesnt even know the trailer is behind it. The riding height is equal to any of the larger SUVs. Great value for the money. A GREAT improvement over the Blazer of previous years.

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  Having Fun - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By gator36 - March 2 - 6:16 am

  My wife and I test drove the Envoy at a GM Truck Show in Motion. She fell in love with how it drove and handled. Compared to the Dodge Durango it was by far more quiet and had more power. With 500 miles on the odometer we love every aspect of the vehicle and would make the purchase again. I am a picky new car buyer and usually can find things to have the dealer repair right away. I am happy to say that to date I have yet to find something.

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  Back to GM, Again! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Dixon - February 28 - 2:00 am

  After getting away from GM (2 p/us and 2 Suburbans) came back in time to get a 2002 T/B 4x4 with an excellent engine. Has not caused me any concern during first 20,000 miles....

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  05 Trailblazer EXT - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Boldenwh - February 20 - 2:36 pm

  Cheaper alternative to imports and even GMC siblings. Dull power off the line, but gets going in mid tach range. Great discounts can be found as well. This vehicle rates high if you can pick up a loaded one for less than $26K.