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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  could be better - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jim and valerie - July 23 - 8:37 pm

  at 62000 miles the transmission has developed. that has me worried, after having a Ford Taurus and a Dodge Caravan both developed leaks and major problems at around 65000 miles. so you see it seems to be an American car company problem not just Chevy. gas mileage is extreme. around 20 highway and 13 city in two wheel drive. lock in 4-wheel drive and it drops to 10 or less. my v-8 ford pickup does better by far.

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  Love it - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Mapanch - July 19 - 11:56 pm

  Bought this TB used with 30,000 miles. Have had nothing but good luck with it. I beat the hell out of this car (muddin and taking my toys out) and still have had zero problems with it (knock on wood). The I6 is an awesome engine, can hardly feel any difference when towing. The 4X4 is mountain goat strong - go anywhere. Comfortable for long trips, even to sleep in for a few days. Massive amounts of interior storage. All in all a good truck. Traded in from a Nissan Xterra - this is on par with an Xterra. Just a whole lot cheaper due to GMs crap resale value. Ground clearance stinks however, had to put a 3" lift on it - althought 98% will never leave pavement - still good offroad

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  No wonder GM is hurting. - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By E.Crumb - July 17 - 6:16 pm

  I had owned this truck now for 15 months, bought it used with 73000 miles and very disappointed, just about every little thing that could go wrong with this vehicle has gone wrong. Right down to the cheap plastic features that have cracked on the interior, to the faded plastics on the exterior. The rear light housing on both sides have leaked and are in need of replacement will not pass inspection. In the 15 months my service engine light has come on at least 20 times. On an average it has cost $300 to fix. The gas pedal malfunctioned, thermostat, O2 sensors, TPS went twice, stuck two times in NYC with reduced power. Please be advised to look elsewhere if this is the type of SUV you need.

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  Test Drive It. - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By john_a - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive drove 4 different makes before I bought my vehicle. The Performance on the Trailblazer was second to none. Drive it and you too will be impressed with all the rebates and incentiveds rates you cant go wrong

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  Nice ride-family SUV - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Texasgirl - July 15 - 10:44 am

  I drive my Trailblazer mostly in town. After switching over to a synthetic oil I improved MPGs from 15.5 to 16.5. I had some front end trouble at 38000 miles. The entire rack and pinion steering system had to be replaced. $1500.00 ouch! Its a good SUV. Currently I have 47000 miles on it and no more trouble.

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  Poor reliability - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Disappointed Owner - July 14 - 5:02 pm

  I bought the car new and discovered the driver side window worked very slow. Dealer replaced motor three times and worked on it on at least 10 visits. Never was fixed! Transmission went out at 70000 miles. Car was never driven hard and perfectly maintained. Numerous problems with emission air motors to the tune of $200 a pop. Had to replace the drivers side hub assembly, (bad bearing), $350. Oil gauge stopped working at 85000 miles. Change oil light very difficult to reset. Rubber seal on back doors had to be re glued twice. Engine runs very well with no problems, have used nothing but synthetic oil for life of car. Radio lighting goes on and off. No Low Fan control for AC or heat.

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  great suv - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By pino_i - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I love it. Its great on milage and easy to drive. Very sapcious and comfortable.

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  Great vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By aggie88 - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had it 3 months now and I love the vehicle. Fuel economy is about the same as what I had with my Grand Cherokee so no surprises there; however, this vehicle has much more power. I havent owned a Chevrolet since 1981; Im glad I switched back. All vehicles should have a system similar to ONSTAR. It is such a great safety/convenience feature.

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  2002 Trailblazer problems - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By N{SAMBI - June 27 - 2:00 am

  We received the vehicle and the bolts came off a electrical module connected to the engine. There were several rattles not yet fixed or found. The steering wheel was crooked and the dealership tried to say it was because all roads slanted to the right. There is a loud rattle in the engine when the vehicle is switching out of 1st gear.

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  Be ready for Repairs - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Colorado - June 25 - 11:54 am

  I bought this vehicle with an extended warranty, thank heavens. Within a month they had to replace the whole engine due to valve problems, after 50000 miles transmission cracked in half. Also thankfully covered under warranty. 30000 miles later transmission out again. This time on my dollar. Also clicking noises constantly under the hood that no one can figure out. We do regular maintenance but the big things just keep adding up. I love my truck, the look, the handling, and space but I couldnt in good conscience recommend it to anyone with such costly repairs continuing every time we turn around. They have major problems with the engines in that year and the transmissions.