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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  great suv/great price compared to others - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By tl - October 28 - 2:00 am

  very pleased with car compared to previous Blazer s-10, got rid of it in 2.5 years. problem with keyless locks was repaired quickly by dealer replacing rear hatch lock control module. no other problems experienced. love this car. usually keep cars 10+ years and see no reason this should not be a keeper.

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  Worth the money - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Pat - October 27 - 4:03 pm

  I have an 03 ext LT with 4.2L. This has been a great Suv for me and my family. I agree the fuel economy could be better but for a 03 mid size Suv its pretty good. Interior is excellent but I agree that the radio buttons do wear off. I love the 3rd row/cargo space. Ive compared this to an explorer with the 3rd row and it can actually fit an adult unlike the explorer. Im 61" and can sit back there (although I wouldnt do it for a LONG road trip). Its a comfortable and quiet ride. I would recommend it to anyone.

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  Happy so far... - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Derek - October 21 - 12:38 pm

  We recently purchased a 2008 Chevy TrailBlazer 1LT... our first American built car after a trio of Nissans.We are very happy with our purchase so far. Excellent ride,expected fuel mileage 15city/21hwy,excellent space for each passenger,a real surprise. We were not set on a TrailBlazer but after our purchase we would not hesitate to purchase a newer more updated version if it was produced.

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  Great Value SUV - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Steelhead - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my EB Explorer because it was literally falling apart after 85,000 miles. I looked at SUVs for several weeks to make sure I was getting the best price for what I wanted. I looked at Jeeps, Honda, Toyota, etc(sorry, no Fords). When I saw the Trailblazer EXT LT with all the upgrades and price, I new I had found the right SUV. It rides like a dream, great power equipment and ALL the bells and wistles found in a 40K+ SUV. The stereo is amazing and the ride is superb. I am averaging almost 18 MPG on the HWY, hope to get better, but it is a bigger SUV.

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  ninis trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dholland - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Excellent, reliable, sturdy rig with a smooth, almost luxury car feel.

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  Chevy rules - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Robyne - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The trailblazer is a step up from the blazer, The only thing I needed to get use to is the size, parking wise it took me a little longer then usual to figure out how to pull into a left parking spot. without being too close to the vehicle next to me. Other then that, Its a great suv and I get alot of compliments on its looks. Great vehicle for kids with the extention.

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  Great truck - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Keith Lesslie - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Since buying my new Trailblazer in August of 2003, I have nothing but pride in my new truck. It has been such a wonderful truck to drive in. Just wish they came out with these truck 5 years ago.

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  Blue Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bette Green - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I have taken three trip with it this summer and can hardly wait for next summer so I can go again. Its absolutly the best on the Interstate a real joy to drive and ride in.

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  Better Than Expected - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Anonymous80 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The Trailblazer gets ripped by the "experts" more than it should. I asked several people who own Trailblazers how its gone for them and nobody had a bad thing to say about it. I bought a 2003 LS w/4wd and put about a 1,000 miles on it in a couple weeks. The ride is great, the engine is powerful, and even my wife who previously hated driving SUVs loves it. It handles well and early indications are positive.

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  My Experience - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By blazer1247 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY SECOND TRAIL BLAZER. I FIRST BOUGHT THE SHORTER VERSION AND KEPT IT FOR A LITTLE OVER A YEAR. IT WAS A VERY GOOD VEHICAL, BUT I NEEDED SOMETHING A LITTLE BIGGER FOR FAMILY NEEDS. THE "EXT" WAS PERFECT. BETTER RIDE THAN THE STANDARD VERSION. NOT MUCH DIFFERENCE IN GAS MILAGE. ONLY CONSISTANT PROBLEM WAS WITH WIPER MOTOR. NOW FIXED. NO OTHER PROBLEMS.