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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Nothing to brag about - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By stallion78 - June 10 - 5:53 pm

  I have owned this car for over 2 years. The leather interior and amount of drink holders is nice but the cheap looking dash and stereo system is a bad combination with the nice seats. Mostly the SUV has not been giving me trouble but one problem has never been corrected and that is the braking system which has been locking up at the worst times. Glad I havent crashed into anyone yet.

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  03 Trailblazer EXT LT 4WD - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By becky - June 10 - 5:15 pm

  We bought this SUV thinking it would get decent gas mileage and be great for the family. Space is nice and it is very comfortable but the gas mileage is horrible! We get about 11mpg in town and 12-13 on the highway! I havent even had it for 1 year and am looking to sell. If you are looking for something that even gets remotely good gas mileage dont by this car! We had everything looked at to see if there was some sort of problem that caused the bad mpg and everthing was good to go, just bad mileage!

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  So far so good - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By JakeMon - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I use it to tow my 2500 lb. boat and have no complaints with its capabilities. Not the most high- quality interior ever built but solid, tho a bit cheap sounding. Rear seat is cramped with car seats (I am 62"). Rear hatch lacks rigidity and I fear will become more loose and problematic. Quiet, smooth ride and powerful engine/drivetrain combo. Still, sometimes, the shift from R to D gets lost and takes longer than necessary to engage-this feels sloppy.

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  Still Going - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By refpro - June 5 - 9:33 am

  I have 142k on this SUV. I have not had to replace the tranny or engine. My goal is to get 200k on this vehicle. Little things have gone on this vehicle, lights on the dash have gone out. Some on the radio, gauges, etc. But owning this vehicle over 6 years, I think thats pretty good. I am a believer of preventive maintance, and I think that has helped in keeping my vehicle running. All fluids are changed reguarly, and the brake fluid,and front and rear diff has been changed. My mechanic recommended to change the radiator to extend the life of the tranny. Did that around 120k, so far so good. The suspension needed to be changed around 100k. But have not done that yet. And I proabably wont

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  Chevy has come a long way. - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chevy TrailBlazer - May 29 - 12:28 am

  Since I have had my TrailBlazer I have had few problems. Vehicle has required only routine service. I am pleased with many things with my vehicle however it does leave things to be desired. This will be my last American made vehicle since the thing is only worth a fraction of what I paid for it considering it is in perfect used condition. This vehicle is built more like a 2000 then a 2004 lacking features other SUVs of the same year offer. The engine could have been a little more refined with a lot more power and better fuel economy. I was recently looking at the new 2008 TrailBlazer and Chevy has made some great improvements.

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  I like mine! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jwells1988 - May 27 - 11:56 pm

  I bought my Trailblazer just a few months back. So far I must say I have rather enjoyed it. Its good looking. Gets me from A to B comfortably. Fuel economy, not so great, but hey its a 4.2L. Gets me moving! I would have no problems recomending this car to anyone.

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  02 Chevrolet Trail Blazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Danno - May 23 - 2:37 pm

  From the beginning until present, this vehicle has been super. I have had no problems with it to this date. Outside of regular service, the only expense has been new tires at 45,000 miles and a new battery at 35,000. Ride has been like sitting in a comfortable chair in my living room. Excellent on trips over 50 miles. Acceleration when you need it is there. Today with gas near $4 I wish it had better mileage but it more than makes up for it with its spacious interior, ride, and visibility.

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  Really Nice SUV - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Brandy - May 23 - 1:39 pm

  I really love my TrailBlazer. It is a very comfortable vehicle. Have had it 3 1/2 years. Only problems have been clearcoat peeling on rims(warranty fixed), temp control sensor (warranty fixed), and front wiper motor. The front windshield wiper issue was a recall that should have been fixed by the dealership, but a friend of ours (a GM mechanic) looked it up and found out they took the cheap route and didnt replace the whole thing. The only issue I have now is gas mileage. It is average for a SUV, but may have to trade off since I have a long commute. The computer says I average 17.8. At highway speeds (55-70), I have seen instant economy of 19-30 though. Have to readjust outside mirrors rarely.

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  Still Going at 180k - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Lark - May 22 - 10:21 am

  I am a happy owner. We bought it new in late 02 and have driven 180k miles. Engine is still running strong. We have had a tranny rebuild at about 160k due to a stripped sunshell. We also had to replace the alternator at 130k and occasionally the left brakelight burns out (easy to replace and I have replaced about 8 times in life of the vehicle), all else has been regular maintenance. As long as it keeps running stong, I plan to keep it until 250k.

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  trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rjb1311 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  goodWe appreciate opinions from all of our users. However, in an effort to provide site visitors with the most valuable consumer insight and information, it is a requirement that you own this vehicle in order to write a review. We have found that actual ownership experience is the best yardstick for providing genuine quality feedback about a vehicle beyond a test drive