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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Chevys SS package does it again! - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SS Man - February 15 - 1:48 pm

  For all you SS lovers out there, Chevy finally answered back! This SUV has it all... power, suspension, body style and all the options you need cruising at 100mph. Ive had no problems with the windows rolling-up at high speeds (like another review I read) and the new 4 speed transmission allows a lot more than torque than any 5 or 6 speed can handle. I own a 2002 Camaro SS with a 6-speed manual transmission and couldve only prayed for a 4-speed manual! Less shifting.... more driving! If you like stlye, comfort, power and most importantly SS packages buy this SUV now before there all gone. I recommend the the Black Granite Metallic for paint.

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  The Real Deal about the Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By bigsleep80 - February 14 - 10:00 am

  Just under 1000 miles on my TB. The gas mileage is horrible if youre talking about ALL vehicles. If youre talking about SUVs then its pretty good. Everyone seems to trash the interior. Its not the best out there but, far from the worst. The one complaint ive agreed with is the cornering. But once again if youre talking about all vehicles then it doesnt handle corners that well. But its a SUV (did you really think you can go flying around a corner at 60 mph?) Overall, I love my TB (keep in mind im only approaching 1000 miles.) I plan on writing a follow-up at 6 months.

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  2005 Trailblazer - Good Vehicle. - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By twright - February 13 - 2:23 am

  Days after buying this vehicle, we took it on a long trip over 2000 miles. It handled very well and was very comfortable. We got all the toys (GPS, DVD, XM Radio, etc) and glad we did. I am disappointed that you lose the use of the CD player when using the GPS, but the XM radio was a savior here. Gas mileage on the trip was 21 highway to and from vacation and 18 MPG during the week of city & highway. In the city alone, with a lot of hills, I am getting 14 - 15 MPG. Good engine performance. Could use a little more storage space near the front seats. Overall, I feel this is an excellent SUV and believe I will be happy with it for years to come.

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  lemon - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By trailtech - February 8 - 2:00 am

  In 1yr. our trialblazer has been in the shop 18 times.a/c problems that GM refuses to work on under warranty.4wheel drive that has not worked in 5000 miles.no brake lights 3 times and yes 5 recalls.my review can be shortend to one word "LEMON".this comes from a big GM fan and technician

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  Just bought another one! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By G. Evans - February 8 - 2:00 am

  Bought a new 2002 TB in Nov 01, and liked it so much, I bought a 2004 TB yesterday. Had a few leaks with 02 (front struts and a very slow cranckshaft seal)which dealer fixed. Otherwise no problems. Also own a 98 Expedition. TB is much easierr to handle in the city vs. Expy. Gas mileage could be better, but both 02 and 04 TBs are extremely smooth and quiet.

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  A compromise - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Drew - February 6 - 6:35 pm

  Im 65"tall with long legs and after spending nearly a year trying find a SUV that I could fit my legs into and drive without my knees hitting the drivers door armrest on the left and a place my right leg comfortably without hitting the stupid center console, which most exaggerate these days. The Trailblazer was the smallest SUV I could drive without bumping my legs or knees somewhere and get acceptable gas mileage. Even the new Tahoes have less leg room. Tried the Acadia too, No Dice! Pretty sad when most cars dont fit. I really like the vehicle, got all the bells and whistles I need and its comfortable, fun to drive and handles well. I traded in a 99 Yukon w/230K miles on it.

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  Chevy Rocks!!! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By zzeebb2 - February 6 - 10:00 am

  This is by far the best looking SUV in its class! Great power and oohh so smooth on the Highway. Took it off road with no regrets...took on the bayou with ease. This SUV has the power, looks and spunk to take on anything domestic and overseas!!! Like a ROCK!!!

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  It must be "Buttah" - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By TG - February 6 - 10:00 am

  I test drove all the TBlazers competitors and this truck rides by far the smoothest. The steering is flawless and the power is "money". The payload is roomy and you can take the gang and all their golf clubs to the course easily...not to mention fitting customers in the back seat. This is a no brainer buy.

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  It must be "Buttah" - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By tg - February 6 - 10:00 am

  I test drove all the TBlazers competitors and this truck rides by far the smoothest. The steering is flawless and the power is "money". The payload is roomy and you can take the gang and all their golf clubs to the course easily...not to mention fitting customers in the back seat. This is a no brainer buy.

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  Disappointedchevyowner - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By neverbuychevyagain - February 5 - 8:28 pm

  I bought a "certified" used 2002 from the dealership w/ extended warranty. this broke down 3 days after I drove it off the lot. took 3 weeks to get back. I have had nothing but 1 problem after another in 4 yrs of ownership. Engine just went at 70k (manuf defect w/ cyl wall) and after 6 weeks I finally get back with used engine that doesnt run right. On way home front suspension fell apart- not put back together properly. Calls to Chevy/GM were no help. GM will not stand behind their vehicles and basically acted like they didnt even want to hear about my problem. GM refused to give new engine or guarantee on used engine. Ill never buy GM again. Getting Subaru if I ever get back.