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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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For the Money, Best SUV on the Road - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Mel Turner - March 17 - 11:16 amWeve put over 134,000 miles and this baby still sounds brand new. Engine so quiet, I cant hear it idle at red lights. I only use Mobile 1 synthetic oil. Only two problems since ownership, fuel gauge and ignition switch. Warranty covered them. This is the only vehicle my wife drives. We have two Volvo s80s thats collecting dust in the garage. Ill probably have to sell them. Suv only requires maintenance every 50,000 miles besides oil change. One more thing, this suv is great on the road. The only suv well ever own. We love our trailblazer. For longevity, only use synthetic oils and lubricants. With my Continental tires, I get 18 city and 22 highway.
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Trading it in after 4 months - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Walker - March 17 - 10:00 amOwned vehicle for 4 months. Air conditioning has gone out three times and the dealer tells me that it is very very common. In fact, he told me that it may go out again. Squeeky back window and horrible suspension. The seats are confortable if you are under 6 feet tall. Gas mileage is good for the engine size. If you dont mind not having air conditioning its a great vehicle, just make sure to visit it once or twice in the shop. We have a 2001 Chevy 3500 and a 2002 Corvette with no problems. Chevy just hasnt gotten the Trailblazer down, time for us to look to Jeep for help with an SUV
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Way better then I expected - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Canyons - March 15 - 8:10 amWe were looking at a Yukon or a Tahoe but for the price you just cant beat this. I was a little hesitant at first to buy this but I quickly changed my mind. The drive is super smooth (better then some cars) there is room in the back for my 63 husband and enough room for our two large Labradors in the back. With a new baby on the way we should have plenty of room for everyone :)
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Good value for the $$$ - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Palmetto - March 15 - 12:11 am110 K mi. Absolutely no mech.issues to date. Good road ride, front seats are very comfortable , rear seats are not comfortable, tight entry/exit. Handles well on the highway, a little whale(ish) around town. The 4,2 L 275 hp engine is quiet and smooth with more than adequate power. Gas mileage is decent: 16-18 mpg city, 20-24 mpg hwy. With 55-60 mph cruise 25+ mpg. LTZ model but a basic Chevy w/bland, cheap plastic interior appointments. Excessive wind noise around windows. OA a decent American SUV for the money, not great, but a good value so far. I have not spent a penny beyond basic maintenance, which is a pleasant departure and surprise for a GM vehicle.
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Perfect for the price - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By demonspeed - March 13 - 9:16 pmMy fiance and I purchased our TrailBlazer as a third vehicle for road trips to visit family in the north east. Gas mileage isnt stellar, but for the type of vehicle it is, I think its fine. Interior is basic, but thats exactly what we wanted - and it fits the price. The exterior is very Chevrolet and brawny. The tight turning radius is extremely welcomed in the congested traffic we have in DC. The ride is great for a BOF SUV and it feels nimble and brakes adequately for its size. Acceleration is fine, but at times it feels as though it could use some more power. I guess Im spoiled as my daily driver is a 2005 GTO. Overall, the vehicle is perfect for our needs.
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TRAILBLAZER- PROS & CONS - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By JOHN CASSATA - March 13 - 1:00 amLIKE IT VERY MUCH. NEEDED LEG ROOM AND LIKE RIDING UP HIGH VERY MUCH.NO KIDS,JUST WIFE. PLENTY OF ROOM.EASY TO GET IN AND OUT OF. ALL FEATURES I WANTED IN A MID- SIZE SUV.
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Lucky Me!!! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By girlcrew5 - March 11 - 10:00 amWe bought our Trailblazer ext after owning a GMC minivan for 6 years. We have 4 very active daughters so we were needing plenty of room. I didnt really want that "soccer mom" look anymore. I fell in love with this sporty looking SUV!! It handles beautifully! I usually put an average of 30,000 miles on a vehicle annually. So far in 10,000 miles it has lived up to its reputation! We highly recommend it to everyone.
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Love this car - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Cindy - March 9 - 12:23 pmI had a 2003 Trailblazer and I was NOT fully satisfied with that model. When looking for this new car I went for the loaded version. I LOVE IT. Drives great, very comfortable. Fuel economy leave a little to be desired, but thats all SUVs
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Dont buy one - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By crackmonkeys4hire - March 7 - 6:48 pmThe car is OK except that the electronics failed in less than 2 years. Good thing I bought that warranty. Now the plastic around the base of the seats have broken. Overall Im not very impressed by Chevrolet vehicles.
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Decent purchase - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Jeffner - March 4 - 9:16 pmI received my trailblazer in 2006 with 12000 miles on it. We live in Florida and have traveled to TN drove in the mountains for a week, the truck handles lots of terrain. I now have 60,000 miles on it and other than a few hiccups I am very happy. I love the comfort with two children, getting in and out is a breeze. Lots of room, and smooth ride. Overall I liked it so much we just purchased our second trailblazer.
