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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Transmission Problems?? - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By hettel - February 22 - 10:00 am

  We love our Trailblazer, but was wondering if anyone else has had transmission problems? Weve already had to have sensor replaced to shift from first to second and now it seems to be having a problem again. Everything else is superb!

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  Ex-EXPLORER owner now has Trail Blazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Ro - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle drives very smoothly. There definitely is a blind spot when backing up and looking back to your left...very difficult to see out...must use mirrors for backing. Back seating is comfortable.

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  Great - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Kenneth Maddox - February 22 - 10:00 am

  The trailblazer to me is the best suv out there,Hands down.

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  Love my Trail Blazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Kiliwehi - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely Love my Trail Blazer, the styling is really awesome and the performance is great! Lots of power!

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  I love my 04 Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chev - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I love my Trailblazer... i have had it for 1 week and have more then 1500 miles on it already. Very happy

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Homertime - February 16 - 2:00 am

  My 2003 Trailblazer has treated me very well. Nearing 20,000 in just over a year I have had some warranty related problems - no more then 3 - with SOME hastle at the dealer. Ride is smooth and comfortable. Handling is also excellent, and I have yet to get stuck in any road hazard. Highly suggested for any mid-sized SUV customer. You will not be disappointed.

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  trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By spencer - February 14 - 10:00 am

  plenty of pep get up and go comfortable ride. 14 mpg in town.gm could jazz up interior. happy with purchase.

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  The Princess Loves It!! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By notthatkindofdoc - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Weve had this truck for 5 months now, and have just turned over 11,000 miles. So far, the trailblazer is everything to love and little to complain about. The big 6 cylinder engine is fabulous (my wifes words) and the styling is great to look at. Ive been hesitant to buy a Detroit sport-ute, but this was clearly a good decision, especially with the incentives.

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  Thoughts from a new owner - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By canoe - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for about 3 weeks but have over 2000 miles on it. I am happy with the whole experience. I looked at all of the other mid sized SUVs and found this one to be an excellent blend of features. So far, so good. I have another 3000 miles to drive in the next 2 weeks. Time will tell whether Im still happy.

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  could do better - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By candyman - February 4 - 10:00 am

  drives well on dry pavement.Cant believe how poorly it handles in snow.Wont let my wife drive it in snow since it has zero traction.5 recalls is dissapointing and having my brake lights burn out 3 times is inexcusable. Excellent on highway and lots of room inside.