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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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:
Showing 471 through 480 of 1,336.00-
honest review - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By bandyman - December 2 - 2:00 amFord Explorer vs. Chevy Trailblazer. The exterior styling is really what won me over. And also the 0% financing. I have not been very happy since the purchase. The dealership has been very helpful, but I am making to many trips in for repairs. Problems: --AC worked intermittenly. --Fuel economy avg. 16 mpg. --seatbelts lock up constantly. --Front storage is useless, the gearshift takes away from interior functionality. (you may not notice it on a test drive, but you will in real life) --lots of interior squeaks --loud road noise over 50 plenty of horsepower, but that only goes so far. I would not recommend the Trailblazer
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Great Car - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Larry Marquez - November 27 - 6:21 pmMost of the people that I know including mechanics love this car. Now I know why. Its a joy to drive. I dislike the new European styling so this is the car for me. GM has a winner in this SUV. Recently found out the the small Hummer uses the same chasis.
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New VDP-Rate This Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Pack - November 15 - 2:00 amI love my new Trailblazer the way it handles, such as the tightness of the steering. But the thing about my truck is that it uses the gas, I dont mind to much because I like the vehicle so well. The inside is excellent. The CD player stereo is rocking, and Im not one of those "If its to loud your to old. Lynard Skynard sounds like they are in the truck with me. I just love MY truck......
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No Reliability - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By stunned - November 7 - 10:00 amVast interior volume improvement over the blazer. The new engine does not feel as if it is unleashing 270 hp. Build Quality is still questionable. I have had mine in the shop for electrical problems and as of yesterday it left me on the side of the road due to an electronic malfunction. I beginning to think FORD.
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TrailBlazer SS: SSweet. - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Matt Peters - November 3 - 10:14 pmNot many changes for 2008, but all together the vehicle is a fun and comfortable muscle-truck. The throttle response at all rpm ranges is strong and allows for a fun drive. The tight sport-tuned suspension leaves one with the feeling of driving a car much lower to the ground. The sound of the Corvette LS-2 engine is evident at idle and even more so in high rpm. The full option electronic interior with heated seats and leather/suede wrapping make for a feeling of luxury most GM SUVs dont allow for. Overall, the SS is very sporty in exterior and interior styling, strong horsepower, and tight suspension with the interior luxury factors making it desirable for even standard SUV fans.
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Great Buy - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By nick - October 31 - 11:17 pmIf youre looking for an SUV look into this Chevy. Yea, the gas mileage is terrible, but it handles great, has great looks, and plenty of cargo space. The styling cues are great, and with the usual large Chevy rebate you can get this truck affordably! This is a must consider
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Think Twice! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By WWooten - October 27 - 6:48 pmEverything has went wrong with this car. It has been a huge money pit. Make sure to have an inspection done prior to purchasing. I have had problems with everything from the transmission to the fuse box.
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My Chevy - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Meposian51 - October 26 - 9:13 pmI really enjoy driving my Chevy Trailblazer. It has pep with 290 horsepower and handles well. Easy to park, and I get decent gas mileage for an SUV. Plenty of room for groceries or luggage, etc in the back which is great for trips. This is my first SUV and I would definitely recommend the Chevy Trailblazer!
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Zoom, Zoom and more Zoom - 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Nice - October 25 - 3:52 pmIf you looking for comfort and performance this is the SUV that you should consider. This has so much power, its hard to imagine a SUV can give this type of performance. If you looking for a family vehicle that is fuel efficient, this is not your type. If you want something fast with the capabilities of a SUV and comfort, look no further.
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S2S - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ssslllllll - October 25 - 2:00 amIts Simply Amazing. It is the greatest SUV Ive Ever seen
