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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Best Vehicle I Ever Had! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Trailblazer - June 16 - 5:17 am

  This vehicle has been used by my family for so many, many things from transporting kids around and loading all their sports equipment in the back to being able to put an entire shed building kit in the back. There is so much room in this SUV and it is super comfortable. We have taken it on trips and never one complaint. It is so versitile for so many different things. The rear air is really nice in the summer. The back opens up big so two of us can load groceries together or just sit in the back at the drive-in. I highly recommend this SUV whether you have a family or not. Endless uses and just so practical.

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  02 Trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Sterk0414 - June 14 - 6:23 pm

  Once you get past the fact that you will only get a max of 16 miles per gallon youll love this truck. Its got plenty and good pick up for the size of the SUV. This was my first SUV purchase after driving only little sports cars and im not sure if I can switch back.

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  My Horse Excalibur - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Kathleen August - June 14 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a Chevrolet SUV and found that I LOVE to drive it! I drive highways and byways and the car takes to the road like a duck to water. Its beautiful to look at too. The gas mileage is great, $125 bought me a thousand miles of driving, mostly highways and I think thats pretty good for gas prices, despite what the anti- SUV people are saying. I definitely would tell my friends to buy a Chevie SUV if they asked. Id go with them and have a blast helping them to pick out the right size and color for their needs. PLUS, the Dealership helped me with figuring the financing and treated me very well. Good People. Yea Chevrolet! Kathleen

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  Blazing a trail with the Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bob Wadsworth - June 14 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I purchased a 2003 Trailblazer Ext over the Ford Explorer, Dodge Durango and their respective bigger siblings. We needed a vehicle that would comfortably pull a trailer and have 3 rows of usable seats that that would fit easily into our garage. The Trailblazer felt better, seemed more solid and we like the looks better than the others. It has a 3rd seat that we can and do use for our two older daughters. We are impressed with the smooth in-line 6 and know that when we go pull a trailer, we will have more than enough power and torque. The ride is smooth and comfortable.

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  Its a SUV - get over it! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By shoebox - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Poor gas mileage - wanders all over road at expressway speed - leans in turns badly - if you roll down just the back windows while moving it creates a bad low decibel rumble enough to drive you crazy in 5 minutes - accessing the 3rd seat is rediculous - towing capacity is 5400 lbs but with my 3800 lb boat Im scared I cant do a controlled stop - overall not worth the money but what else is out there that is any better that can tow more than 3500 lbs? - looks good though sitting still

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  So Good I Purchased one for my wife! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By John Horton - June 5 - 1:09 pm

  Very pleased with the ride looks and durability of the car. The only problems I have had have been the tail lights which GM did fix and I never had a problem again with either vechicle. I purchsed a second one for my wife and we both have been pleased with the performance of the car.

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  Okay for the Money - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Not Again - June 2 - 8:48 pm

  This was the first Chevy I have owned and for the first few months it was great. I had to take it in for several recalls (3x) and about 6 times for rear brake lights. I have spent about $2000 in repairs for misc items. The CD player is now having problems switching between radio and cd player on its own. Now the computer is going out. I guess for the money it is okay, but would suggest only keeping it for a few years and then trading it in for something else.

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  I Love My Trailblazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By 4 door LS SUV - May 30 - 10:29 am

  I like the high ride, and the durability of this vehicle, and the room and comfort.

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  I enjoy this car better than my Tahoe - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By pointerlover - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I really like my trailblazer. Its fun to drive, peppy and pretty comfortable. I do think the styling could be better and the instument panel is hard to read. Kind of reminds me of a Camry my sister has.

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  Excellent - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Rose Torres - May 28 - 10:00 am

  the ride is very smooth