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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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GM gets it Right - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Racecar24 - March 21 - 10:00 amI have owned 16 SUVs in the last 10 years and The Trailblazer is a great vehicle. GM did a great Job when they redisigned the Blazer.
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funfunfun - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By steveh1354 - March 21 - 10:00 amI purchased the LT model in June of 2004 and am very happy with the way this vehicle drives, very smooth and great vision of the road. Strong engine.Anyone interested in the video entertainment option should really shop around. the dealer wanted 1800 or so for a base setup and I purchased a nice sharp set up installed for 1000.
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Very pleased in san diego - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By maxie - March 21 - 10:00 amI bought my Trailblazer on Jan 1, 2004. I drive it extensively, and haul a 23 foot boat with it. The only complaint I have to date is when approaching a stop while going downhill, when I brake it seems to skip, maybe even a tiny bounce to it. Turns on a dime, normally (other than what was already mentioned) brakes well, corners well, although does feel a touch top heavy. Mileage could be better, averaging in the 17 mpg range. Honestly, really enjoy it. Never had any car that was perfect, but this one I enjoy driving. Would recommend it.
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Great SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Keith Ellis - March 17 - 2:00 amWe are very pleased with our Trailbalzer. It is a well built vehicle and is very functional. We are expecting our 1st child in a few weeks and we were looking for a SUV to suit our needs. I think we found it with the Trailbalazer.
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Delivers - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Ivan - March 17 - 2:00 amThe Trailblazer delivers room, comfort, reasonable gas milage and a high level of technical development. However, it could use an independent rear suspension. Truck-like in turns. Otherwise, as smooth as cream.
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Delivers - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ivan - March 17 - 2:00 amThe Trailblazer delivers room, comfort, reasonable gas milage and a high level of technical development. However, it could use an independent rear suspension. Truck-like in turns. Otherwise, as smooth as cream.
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AWESOME RIDE - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Stuart W - March 12 - 10:00 amthe chevy trailblazer 4wd/awd LS is a dream for any consumer. i have found a flawless performance all around. Great onroad and offroad with style and comfort included :)
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Disapointing - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ozzie1953 - March 7 - 10:00 amgreat design. poor reliability/ quality.poor dealer suport!
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great car - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By darren nesmith - February 26 - 10:53 pmgreat
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BEST 4X4 in 25 YEARS - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By R Magnotti - February 23 - 2:00 amI have owned or leased chevs or GMC 4X4for the past 25 years and this is the best one.
