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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Its one of the best SUVs. - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By trailblazered - October 7 - 10:00 am

  All I can say is I love it. No problems, tons of power, plenty of space, its stylish and I got it loaded with everything except the DVD. Gas could be better but I didnt buy an econo car to save money here. Ignore the editors review. Hey editor, the steering is fine unless youre racing around corners. I mean really, its an SUV people not a Ferrari!

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  Just Love It - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Tom Wright - September 23 - 9:13 pm

  This is a very good riding, handling and quiet vehicle. On a long trip of 2000+ miles, we found the drive very enjoyable with its comfort and all the extras like DVD player, GPS, Satelite radio, leather, etc. We got 21 MPG on the highway. City driving we are gettng aroudt 15 MPG. Plenty of room for luggage, golf clubs, cooler and misc. items.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Alexis72 - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Our Trailblazer EXT has been great. Very useful out here in Colorado with snow, mountains, and city driving with other Sport Uts. We are planning to have kids, and having a third row seat will be nice to have. There is plenty of room for adults in the front and rear, but limited in the third row seat for very large adults. However, this SUV had no problems climbing up the mountains with passengers and gear. Fun to drive, and handles smoothly on the highway. Amazing turn radius for such a long vehicle. Buy one!

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  I love Blazin! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By TRAILBLAZERLOVER - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I simply love my Trailblazer, from the first time I saw it I was amazed at its style and appearance. Its power is unbelievable and handling so far is great. I would recommend it over the Durango and Explorer in a second!

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  Smooth - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By wilowbee - September 11 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is so much fun to drive. It is quiet and the power is fantastic. I love the way it looks and handles. I had another SUV and it did not handle or ride like this one. I am glad to have made to change to the Trailblazer.

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  The bad outweighs the good - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By came0kid - September 5 - 2:00 am

  This would have been the perfect SUV for me if not for the mysterious electrical problems they cannot fix. It started to break down less than 3 mos old, and has been in the shop 7 times in 11 months. Problems have involved 4WD transfer control module, A/C, Ignition switch, Rear springs (to fix a frequency rumble/vibration at 55mph), passenger door not closing properly, Radio presets mysteriously disappearing, poor gas mileage, rough transmission shifting; computer updates needed; safety recalls. If you want a sunroof you are forced to purchase OnStar for $900 with $14.95 monthly fee.

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  So Far - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By bone - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Its a dream so far!

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  I love it - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By white04tblt - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I love the Truck. I upgraded for a 97 Blazer to a 04 Trailblazer LT. I love the way it drives and handles. Great buy also

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  My Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By southernms - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I went from driving a Nissan SER to the Trailblazer and I was surprised at how well it handles. I even test drove a Xterra before my Trailblazer and found the Trailblazers ride to be smoother. I feel safe in the Trailblazer because of its wide wheel base. The gas mileage is good on the highway, not so good in the city. I also get better treatment at the chevy dealership than I did at the Nissan dealership and there are times when that makes a world of difference.

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  BIG PRICE, BEAUTY, BUT CHEAP INTERIOR - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By KROMASCOT - August 30 - 2:00 am

  THE SUV LOOKS BEAUTIFUL ON THE INTERIOR AND THE EXTERIOR, BUT ON THE INTERIOR, THE MATERIAL THAT THE VEHICLE IS MADE, IS KIND OF CHEAP... AND THE CUPHOLDER, THAT SITS ON THE FLOOR, WHERE FEET ARE IS NOT IN THE BEST INTEREST OF LIFELONG ENJOYMENT, AND IT EATS UP GAS LIKE A FOUNTAIN SYPHONING WATER FROM A WELL. BUT OVERALL, I LOVE THIS VEHICLE.