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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Gotta Love GM - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By GMFanatik - January 21 - 2:12 pm

  Coming from an 07 Cobalt SS/SC with some decent performance mods, this SUV is a beast. I am quite impressed with the comfort, performance, daily drivability, and overall fit and finish of my Trailblazer SS. Stopping power, go power, and manueverability are very surprising to say the least. Surprising in a positive way of course. I would not recommend the dealership I dealt with, but I would highly recommend picking one of these up.

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  Think twice before you purchase this - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By stick w/honda - January 19 - 9:23 pm

  I had my truck for 3 months and steering was shaking violently and brakes were even worse. Took it into the dealership TWICE, but they could find the problem which is still going on! I had a Honda for the past 10 years without a single problem. I regret going with GM. I dont feel safe in it and very hesitant transporting my children in it. I hate this truck and how I fear for my safety in it. Traction light is always coming on and the traction warning light comes on too. I was told it is ok by the dealership and it would reset itself when I turned off the car. It does, only to turn right back on 5-10 minutes later.

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  Nice, family SUV - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By cdb - January 19 - 3:20 pm

  Im not much into power of the vehicle and all of that. I will say this is my 2nd TrailBlazer. The 2nd one I upgraded to the third row, DVD player, and leather seating. Very comfortable, smooth riding SUV.

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  Good Bang for the Buck - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By andrecan - January 19 - 2:21 pm

  Coming off a 2004 Z06 lease I wanted to keep some "Vette" in my life w/2 kids and frequent trips to snow country demand AWD. While no Vette, it does instill confidence leaving tolls or kicking down to pass at any speed. Ride is nice and handling is good for this size vehicle. Seats are comfortable. Window doesnt close properly properly at high speed. I have to slow down, then close to get proper fit wout wind noise. Also transmission wants to slow this car down when you try to coast at about 68 mph. which makes it challenging to keep a steady foot in traffic at that speed. I like my wifes FX45 2x better but after comparing stickers Im happy.

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  SOLID S.U.V - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dearborn21 - January 16 - 2:00 am

  one thing i do know it is better than a ford explorer. smooth ride and build quality is good. im very happy with my purchase. i got the ls 4wd loaded up.

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  Im glad I gave it a chance! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Emily96 - January 14 - 2:00 am

  I always wanted the smaller model SUV Blazer but when the Trailblazer came out, it was more of the size I wanted. I knew what the gas mileage was, but wanted a 4x4 and not a front wheel drive car, we already had a 4x4 Chevy truck, so wanted something other than a car. Excellent Choice, would do it again.

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  Cant Get Enough - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By hitorq - January 10 - 10:45 am

  This is my second TrailBlazer. I loved my 2004 so much when it came time to trade in I just had to get another even after shopping around to other trucks. This is a reliable well built truck that is as comfortable as can be and still is capable of off roading here in Utah with ease. Perfect amount of space and great easy to use features and reliability. I have never had to have either of my trucks serviced for anything except the basic upkeep. I have the leather seats, on star, xm radio and bose stereo...this truck rocks!

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  Hard Fax - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Practical Engineer - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Drove 1500 miles in the first month. No problems; handled a near miss with another car and it handled more like a car than a truck. Gas milage really depends on weight of foot ( wife 18.5mpg Me 19.5mpg both around town). Comfortable ride, best SUV for the road save for the yet to be proven Murano.

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  My review on the car I own - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Charles terrell - January 7 - 3:19 am

  This car ,2002 Chevy trailblazer, is a great used suv. It has decent gas usage, its relatable ,but dont get it stuck .

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  Trailblazer Unreliable - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jon Illinois - January 2 - 2:05 pm

  Battery failed in 1st year. Buttons peeling on Premium Bose Stereo. Wind Noise is very bad. Had to install custom deflectors but still have noise. STARTING PROBLEMS**** - Multiple occurrences. Late 2005 and late 2007 - still continuing. Dealer replaced a bunch of stuff in 2005 which did not solve the problem. Finally replaced ignition switch which solved the problem. New ignition problem - not starting in late 2007. Replaced ignition switch but the problem is still occurring. VERY UNRELIABLE. Transmission shifts hard but has not failed yet.