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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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Not a good SUV at all - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ericx - December 8 - 10:00 amI bought this SUV hoping it would be the best yet. However, all I have had is problems! The transmission was just replaced. I stalled out on a freeway ramp. Started smoking at 1,500 miles. The interior needs some work. The shifter should be on the column. Radio is confusing. Plastic is hard and ugly. Outside is the ugliest Chevy I have ever seen.
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going deaf, you will have to speak up! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By S.S. - December 7 - 2:00 amI have 4000 miles on this vehicle with four trips to the service dept. The engine and overall ride is nice, but it has such extreme wind noise through the doors that it is very uncomfortable and distracting. Dont upgrade the stereo you will not be able to enjoy it! They tell me the drivers door was probably welded to the frame wrong! Where is your quality control Chevrolet? We work hard for our money and will take it elsewhere if you cant make a quality product or fix these mistakes!
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Take This Truck And Shove It!!! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By J. R. - December 5 - 1:50 pmI purchased this truck in oct, 2001. it has been in the shop more than 15 times within 6 months. Sometimes it will not start. Sometimes it cuts off while driving. Not a good feeling at all. Everytime it has been to the shop, they cant seem to find anything wrong. So to add to my list of problems, I continue to hear wind noises, problems with the seatbelts, cd changer has been replaced... the list is endless. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS VEHICLE TO MY WORST ENEMY.
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THE 2004 LT BLAZER - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By yankee clipper - December 3 - 2:00 amThis is the second Blazer ive owned.This Blazer rides better than my 97 lumina. On the highway it has plenty of power and its like you are floating on air.It is a little heavy on gas but its worth it.
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Best truck every - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By redgate190 - November 29 - 10:00 amI had this vehicles as a rental in september. i orignally owned a 1994 blazer loved the way it drove and whe i got behind the wheel of this i feel in love. Going down I-95 was a joyy. comfortable, smooth ride and great gasmilage compared to my 94 blazer. I bbrought my car about a month ago and i am still loving it. everyday it gets better cant wait till the summer so the kids can enjoy the dvd screen going to the beach what a relief this will be. i also added a second dvd player for the third row.
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Built Like An Anvil - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Youngturk - November 27 - 9:19 pmThis is my second Trailblazer. I had my first for three years without one single problem. And although some people might think the styling is a bit dated, its unpretentious, and as functional and reliable a vehicle as you could ask for. Comfortable and fun to drive. And the inline six is bulletproof. This is one solid, well-built vehicle.
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TrailBlazer Fan - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By TrailblazerFan - November 26 - 9:53 amDrive the rest. The TrailBlazer is comfortable, powerful, roomy, handles fairly well, tows a lot, has all the gadgets. This is my second and I wasnt prepared to spend $5-10 grand more for a car with slightly better handling. These cars are bulletproof and in 06-08 all the kinks have been worked out of this proven truckster. Rides smooth. Drive one and see for yourself. 100K trans and for around a grand get a 100K bumper-bumper and you are good to go. Buy American, save a family!
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If only it got better mileage - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By True Blue - November 14 - 3:36 pmThe only thing I can say against the TrailBlazer is that the gas mileaage averages around 15-16 mpg. I like my TrailBlazer better than any other vehicle I have owned, and it is perfect for driving in Wisconsin Winters. I feel it is a mucher safer vehicle for my family than any mid-size sedan or smaller SUV.
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Great Truck - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By W Daly - November 14 - 2:00 amGreat truck on the highway, cruising the interstates with ease and comfort. 20 mpg on the road and highway speeds but a little short in the city due to the big hp. Interior is comfortable on long trips. Back and forth to Myrtle Beach non-stop except for gas and a snack and no physical problems from the seating. Passengers (3) had no complaints whatsoever.
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Needs more gas! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Fredly75 - November 14 - 2:00 amI love the vehicle. Its comfortable, easy on the eyes, and goes when I need it to go. Mama loves driving it back and forth to work. My only complaint: needs a bigger gas tank, short legs, especially when towing.
