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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Electrical PROBLEM!!! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Ashmar - January 27 - 5:21 pm

  I bought a 2002 in February 2009, and by May I had to put 1,500 in it towards a whole new electrical system! It started doing strange electrical things and got to where I could turn the key over but it wouldnt start. It had nothing to do with the battery. We took it to a GM dealership to have it fixed. Well its been 7 mths and were back to where we started 1,500 dollars ago!This is ridiculous and unfair to the customers! Where is the customer loyalty???

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  Super Sweet Ride - 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By superspeed - January 24 - 3:26 pm

  Bought this truck a month and a half ago after test driving everything from Audi A5s to Infiniti FX35/45s to 2010 Camaro SS. My Trailblazer SS with 3SS package blows them all away. With the exception of how much time I spend at the gas station is not important because similar to other reviews, you do not buy this truck for the gas mileage. Amazing ride. Will take a Grand Chverokee SRT8 off the line and see them in the rearview in a couple of seconds. Most Mustangs GTs dont have a chance. Touch screen Nav with Bose stereo and dual climate are a nice touch. No complaints whatsoever. If you are looking for a conventional suv but arent ready to make the move this is definitely the way to go

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  Great Car - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jerbo - January 23 - 2:54 pm

  I love driving the vehicle, has great handling and the best audios in any car I have been in. Will but this type or very model over and over again. The only downside is the gas mileage which is expected with a large SUV.

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  Trailblazer review - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By lu213 - January 17 - 7:07 pm

  My wife and I have owned our trailblazer since 2005. We purchased the vehicle with only 20,000 miles on it. IT now has 100,000. We have never had any major problems with our T blaze, other than replacing the battery, thermostat, and the idler pulley. I do all the maintenance on the vehicle. We live in a rural area approximately 20 miles to the nearest city so we do alot of driving and traveling. The vehicle handles very well and pulls great to be a six cylinder under a load. In all a very nice suv would recommend to any one looking to purchase a suv.

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  Saved My Life! - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Satisfied - January 16 - 10:45 am

  Had this SUV for two and a half years, I never really had any problems with it. It was recently totaled when I was T-Boned at 50 mph, I know that this car saved my life and if I had been driving a smaller car I would not have survived. Though I normally buy new cars every three or four years, I intend to go out and purchase another Trailblazer (used as it is out of production now) and drive it in to the ground. I wish GM still made these.

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  IT POPS WHEELIES! - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SS MAN - January 12 - 4:09 am

  Look the tranny went out but was fixed without a prob. Ive had it for over 2 yrs. Love it! Fast solid, makes u feel safer in traffic knowing u can move when u need I get 16.6 mpg highway after tornado install. Awesome truck, u just need the stereo and tv upgrades. Go buy it u will not b disapointed after stepping on the gas! My wife was a little worried @ first but after she had to drive through the mtns. With my baby boy she quit driving her Lexus ls 400. I think that says something. Anyhoo bad mamajama, love it buy it.

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  Totally Impressed!! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jessica M. - January 7 - 10:33 am

  I enjoy my trailblazer & I am totally satisfied with my purchase. I think the overall performance is amazing. I was truly impressed when it came time to drive through the snow & it handled the weather just great. I found this truck to be very reliable so far, and I feel safe driving it besides the regular maintenance my car has not been in the shop for anything else. I couldnt be anymore confident that this was a great buy!

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  Awesome SUV - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bammer - January 4 - 1:18 pm

  Had it for over a year now and it is still a great ride! The power, styling and ride comfort is excellent. Only had the passenger window track go out (under warranty) but all else has been great. Love this vehicle! I too like the cloth seats even though I originally thought leather was the only way to go.

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  Trailblazer Blazes - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jenny - January 4 - 1:03 pm

  Purchased our TB as a demo w/ 500 miles, great deal, great car! Drives and handles very well, much better than the Fords my family has owned. Has great space for our two carseats in the backseat and a smaller or thinner person in the middle when necessary. Cargo space is perfect, can fit strollers & groceries with room to spare. Easy to find and operate controls, love the electric seat adj as husband & I are 1 ft diff in height, can easily adj to our needs. Have had no problems whatsoever with routine maintenance. Gas mileage is as expected for an SUV. OnStar is a major bonus, especially when you have kids. Travels well for short & long distances - would definitely purchase again!

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  2004 Trailblazer LT - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Tim & Sue - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Great size, awesome power, very comfortable and a really good value for the dollar. Loaded LT with sunroof, Bose, 6 Disc CD, XM stereo, OnStar, steering wheel controls and more, out the door with taxes,license, etc for $29,000!