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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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 551 through 560 of 1,336.00-
Too Many Problems - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ShyGuyABQ - April 17 - 10:07 amThe Trailblazer has many of the features I was looking for in a SUV. Plenty of room, comfortable ride and tons of engine power. But all the problems Ive had with this vehicle outweigh the positives. Ive had problems with the electrical systems, several problems with trim and rubber moldings just falling off for no reason, engine acting up. Nothing major, just a lot of inconveniences. I will not be buying another TrailBlazer.
-
New owner - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By OJH - April 16 - 10:00 amMy wife and I recently purchased our vehicle after our 97 Ford explorer with 75,000 + miles began to show wear and tear. Although we didnt go looking for a Chevy product we were immediately attracted to its design. After a test drive were impressed with the Trail Blazer and decided to purchase it. We found it to be roomy with its wide interior and that the handling was great.
-
This SUV stinks - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Cameron Green - April 12 - 1:03 pmMy wife and I bought this new and within three months it was in the shop for a loud noise in the engine compartment. After four tries the body shop guy drove it and found the problem. Part of the inside body kit was not put on right at facotry. Not long after that problem was fixed this piece of junk started stalling out on my wife at 60mph. Six times to the dealership, couldnt find problem, I suggested throttle body and sensors. Finally problem fixed when the throttle body and mass air flow sensor got replaced. Will not buy another Chevy.
-
There are better choices - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Dokken - April 10 - 2:00 amSqueaks and rattles after 8000 lbs. Low residual value. Poor brakes. Poor steering. Power window and lock buttons feel sloppy, junky. Sour odor from HVAC vents due to mold in ducts.
-
My Silverado is replaced . - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Harold Wainwright - April 7 - 10:13 amI moved from Michigan to Eastern Tennessee. I found the Silverado awkward to drive in a city with lots of hills and curves. When I saw the TrailBlazer I knew its what I wanted. It has a trailer hitch the same as my pickup. so, I can pull my utility trailer when hauling is needed and enjoy the comfort and convenience of an SUV when not working. It has lots of power. Finally, this SUV is handsome.
-
LTZ - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By RICK KLUGE - April 7 - 8:16 amGOOD PERFORMANCE, OVERALL VERY HAPPY WITH CAR.
-
Family Perfection - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Jim Ray - April 3 - 2:00 amMy 2004 Trailblaizer gives the ride of a full sized vehical. The interior is well liad out for convients as well as hardee look . The third row seat is perfect for children so they will have their own space. Its not to bad for the parents either. Iam very pleased with the sturdyness of my vehical. Last month my wife was hit in the passenger door and rear door by a 99 accord . The accord was totaled . The trailblazer was driven away with very little damage. My seven yearold dauther was sitting in the seat where the vehical was hit and was not hurt.So I like the look ,the way it drive and all the extras but I love knowing that my family is safe.
-
excelent suv - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By manny345 - April 2 - 10:00 ami´s the most powerfull suv in the worl.Its even most powerfull than the toyota land cruiser.Its very confortable!!!.
-
My Newest Chevrolet - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Bowtiejac - March 29 - 10:00 amI was pleasantly surprised at the quietness of this vehicle. Performance is very good for the Inline 6 cylinder as compared to earlier V6s. This SUV has many standard features that are optional on some others.
-
Love my TrailBlazer but... - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Dasnake - March 28 - 1:35 pmI love the way my gray SUV changes colors depending on what it is parked next to and time of day. It can be green one minute then brown or black or purple. Just park it next to a large building of the color desired and voila, it becomes that color! If you have ever seen the Nascar # 24 at night, you will see what I mean. I guess GM and Dupont got together on this color so as to give the public a "new" feature to toy with. Now for the bad news. It drinks more fuel than a V-8 ! Had I known this I would have bought a V- 8 for the extra power and torque that. Granted my wife drives it daily on a round trip to work of less than 3 miles a day, but almost zero traffic and few stops. This makes for 9 to 11 mpg!
