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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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 121 through 130 of 1,336.00-
nice ride - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By steve - February 17 - 8:59 pmlove the car great in snow... would buy again
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My TB has served me well - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Lancer66 - February 17 - 2:55 pmThis was actually my second Trailblazer. The first one was good so I bought another one. I have driven this vehicle across country many times and in some pretty bad weather conditions. It has always performed flawlessly. I havent experienced the issues that others have (I have read the reviews here). Mine has 56000 miles.. never had to have any warranty work done. I have replaced the rear brakes but the front ones are still okay. I put a new set of tires on it this past year. I find it comfortable to drive long distance. Fit, finish, paint, etc.. are good and vehicle still looks like new. No squeeks or rattles.. still like new.
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I think I got a Lemon - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By maureen - February 12 - 1:45 pmI was so excited when I bought it. It was used with 9,000 miles on it. I had it for about 10 months and have had nothing but problems since. Ill make a list- line in hatch snapped $400, new battery$120, new starter$300, gas gauge broke$575, throttle body (feels like it going to stall when I stop)$175, I havent gotten all these fixed yet due to money. This is unbelievable. I shouldnt be putting a dime in to this vehicle! Im very disappointed and disgusted! Any recalls? there should be!
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Would buy again - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By loveit - February 8 - 9:56 pmThis is our first SUV and it has been wonderful. I would probably buy the 7 passenger now but at the time it wasnt an issue. There is a 12" height difference between my hubby and myself, we are both pretty particular about how a vehicle fits us, and we both fit comfortably. This vehicle has been very dependable, has plenty of towing capability, and lots of space for our cross country vacations with the family. We make sure the maintenance is taken care of routinely and have never had any issues with it. MPG is 16-17 city and 20-22 hwy and thats loaded down. It handles great in the snow and I feel very safe driving around my little ones.
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GAS Gauge & electrical issues - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Shaniqua856 - February 8 - 11:10 amon my 2nd fuel gauge replacement issue. Something failing in the gas tank saying Low Fuel (Always). I cant afford to replace it again @ $500 in 4 years of ownership, so using the "fuel used" meter to tell me when to fill. This has worked very well. Buttons on the radio & console wear very quickly & fuses fail continually so you just deal with it. A great deal of maintanence. When will there be a recall on the Fuel Gauge issue?
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Interior and features - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Ron Adkins - February 7 - 9:42 amLumbar support knob came off in hand. Very poor indeed. Cable cover by mirror also fell off. Styling has a lot to be desired. Sound system very poor. Locking system locks you out if you leave key in ignition, very frustrating.
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Bad deals - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By rl - February 3 - 2:03 pmMy daughter bought a Trailblazer LS from Cal Worthington and had nothing but trouble. They tried to charge her for charging a battery that was dead because there was some problem with the alarm system and she couldnt turn off the radio,etc. Then the engine blows because they said there was no oil in the engine. She had recently had an oil change which she did regularly. These vehicles should be recalled.
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Great Vehicle - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Dave - February 3 - 10:36 amThis is my 2nd posting regarding the Trailblazer, the last being in March of 08. This truck has been the most reliable vehicle we have ever owned. It now has 63,000 miles on it and has never needed anything other than oil and filter changes. It is quick, comfortable, and can carry a lot of cargo with the seats folded down. Go easy on the gas pedal and it will get 20-21 mpg on the highway.
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Fav Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Jack Daniels - February 3 - 9:19 am6 years old and still running and looking GREAT. I will probably keep this vehicle another 6 years. it has been an absolute pleasure to drive!!
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I Dig It - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Dave - January 29 - 7:31 pmI get a little over 16 mpg average with fairly aggressive driving. I cant complain for what I get. Suspension was too stiff so I softened a little. Perfect now. VERY fun to drive. Its my work truck. People always asking what the heck it is-- SSs are rare around here.
