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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Chevy trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chevy Trailblazer - February 2 - 7:05 pm

  I own a 02 trailblazer and I just bought it last year it has spent more time in the shop than in my driveway. It is now also in the shop for new transmission. I hate this vehicle. My mechanic said the housing was busting on the inside in big chunks. I gave too much for it and I am still giving with the problems I have with it.

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  Love my 2004 Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By danmathers - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Just bought a new 2004 LS after 3 years of a Durango. List $31,600... cash price after incentives: $24,500. Love its drive, much smoother than Durango. Disagree with Edmunds criticism of steering. Very handsome and comfortable. Mileage much better than Durango, pickup very sufficient... nice to be back to 6 cylindars with gas so high. Size, drive and handling perfect. Got Burgundy color and compliments on its appearance. Good tight vehicle with feel of reliability.

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  One of the best... - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By TenderHeart - February 1 - 10:00 am

  After test driving the 2002 Chevy Trailblazer I stopped looking. The Trailblazer by comparison (price/quality/comfort/ruggedness), by far beats the competition. Its reliable and Chevy has outdone itself on the level of comfort and ride. Not only does it ride like a luxury car, but it also LACKS the boat-ish ride that most SUVs have been cursed with! Its quick off the draw and it has more then enough low end torque(275 ft lbs). The engine virtually wipes most others off the map, being an in-line 6 cylinder, with 270 horsepower that beats fords V-6 AND Jeeps in-line 6 not to mention ALL of Jeeps V-8 models!

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  You have been warned..... - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Lemon - February 1 - 10:00 am

  This is a vehicle that has been in for service every nine and a half days since I picked it up. The problems range from a defective right front axle seal, to a severely leaking rear liftglass, to complete autotrac system failure, to the flooding of the drivers floor because the exterior seal was not tight enough. Counting the visit later this week for sticking steering wheel buttons, a mildew smell from the a/c, and parts that were replaced that now have to be replaced again, this vehicle has been out of my hands for almost twenty days in the six months of my ownership of it.

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  Love my SS - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Shep - January 29 - 2:29 am

  I was looking for something practical, then I test drove the TrailBlazer SS. I forgot all about gas mileage when I put my foot on the gas, come 395 hp in a SUV, Corvette base block engine, Chevy you went to far. The interior a little sporty for a 51 year old, I think not. This vehicle still turns head a 21/2 years old. The Bose sound system is awesome, it handles like a sports car, but with enough comfort to make a trip through the mountains fun. Who knew radio (XM) could sound so good, I just purchased 3 years so I would always have it. Overall my TrailBlazer SS is a bunch of fun, although an ave. of 13 mpg in the city is tough.

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  Dont buy a trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By BONBON1977 - January 28 - 2:23 pm

  I do not recommend this vehicle. I have had nothing but problems with it. I have issues with the headlights dimming when I apply the brakes, the buttons on the radio have chipped off, the leather seats were worn after about 4 months, as well as weather stripping problems and turn signal malfunctions. Just to name a few of the problems.Eventhough I had an extended warranty, GM found reasons to cover none of my problems. I wanted an SUV and was excited when I bought this one as I thought I was buying a vehicle that I would love and drive for many years. Now Im just looking forward to the day that I can trade it in for something else and not have to roll negative equity into my next vehicle.

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  Nice looking, reliable SUV - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Rickster1959 - January 28 - 1:11 pm

  Purchased as used 2008 Chevy zone rep. demo. Fairly priced as a demo/used vehicle. Great looking ride!, Interior is very comfortable . Cabin is fairly quiet and well appointed. Lots and lots of features included with the 3LT model. Love the heated leather seats and mirrors. Bose stereo is unbeleiveable! Plenty of power is to be had via the famous Inline 4.2L inline six cylinder engine that I have read so many favorable reviews on. Standard trailering package is a welcome standard feature. So far, this is the nicest vehicle I have owned in over 32 yrs. I drive many miles per weeek, so Chevrolet 5 yr., 100,000 mile warranty is a valuable feature!

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  Blazin my trail - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rebeckywecky - January 28 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. It is very fast with 280 horses under the hood. Its a comfortable ride and unlike the editors rating I dont think the interior is cheaply made. The only problems I have had is in the guage panel with a grinding noise, and the change oil light is a false reading. Also I do think that the seals around the car for noise protection are installed poorly. Mine keep coming loose and I have to reattatch them. Overall I really love this car and dont even want to trade it in for a bigger one, which I really need.

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  Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MBR - January 28 - 10:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for a couple of weeks and am completely satisfied so far. It handles well and is very comfortable to dive.

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  BE WARY.... - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dhamernik - January 26 - 3:44 pm

  I would be very wary of buying a used T-blazer. the reliability of them is to be questioned. I have spent $1500 in repairs this last year (not covered by warranty) & I still need another $1500. Part of that is the instrument panel that goes out between 40k-50k miles...