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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Sweet - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dmack - March 10 - 2:47 pm

  I traded in a 1998 Blazer. I would like to have bought a new one, but they no longer make them. That car was 9 years old with nothing but the usual maintenance. This 2007 TrailBlazer is a little higher (off the ground) than I would like, but still my best choice for a purchase. The vehicle rides much better then the 98, Ive only had it for a week, so Ill have to see what the fuel economy is. All in all, I like it!

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  A Great SUV - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SUV Diehard - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I did a lot of research before buying this SUV. I narrowed my choices to the Chev TB, Accura MDX and Ford Explorer. The TB beat out the others on ride and handling. The turning radius is better than my husbands sedan. Plenty of room in the back for gardening supplies, golf clubs, luggage and home improvement supplies. Plenty of towing power to. After almost 3 years of driving this vehicle, I still think I made the right decision.

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  Not happy with it - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MENSA - March 10 - 10:00 am

  Purchased my 2002 LTZ new and had too many problems, hood hinges that squeaked, strap fell off the rear gate, 4 safety recalls, cracked cylinder bore liner (factory recall) it has been in the shop for two weeks now. I only have 7000 miles, too many problems.

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  Great Family SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By DINO - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I love my new Trailblazer EXT LT ! The ride is remarkably comfortable, with great power (for a six cylinder). Very practical for a family (with a second baby on the way)...very roomy. Has a lot of cool gadgets to play with too. All this, and so sporty looking! Highly reccommend this SUV to anyone looking for a great value, great looks and lots of room!

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  Fun, Fun, Fun, till wifey takes my SS away - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Mike - March 3 - 10:35 pm

  Fantastic. I test drove a lot of cars before purchasing my SS. I traded an Envoy in which I hated from day one and swore never to look at that body style again, but low and behold this truck is absolutely a fun fast beefy monster. I also own an 05 Suburban which I though Id never want to get into something smaller. This TrailBlazer SS is the best value for the money out there, great rebates and incentives, saved over $5,000 of of a sticker of $35,900.

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  07 TrailBlazer is great! - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By joshedcom - February 26 - 7:30 pm

  Purchased the TrailBlazer a few days ago and I love it. I tested many other SUVs and this SUV beat it. The sales person gave me the impression the car came with more features and mislead me in our conversations. Thankfully, I knew more about the car coming into the dealership and was prepared.

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  Piece of junk - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By st2000 - February 26 - 9:07 am

  Still cannot understand how I got this vehicle. Noisy, doesnt keep the road, the interior is just like they were making cars in late 80s. It has only 10,000 on it, but have already fixed it 5 times. The best feature is to turn wipers on. Ive been cursing the designers mother since I tried to turn wipers first time. That was my last American car.

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  Good Buy - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By kase400 - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had it for a half of a year and have been very happy with it.

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  Some pros and cons - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Tmatt - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Gas mileage poor, 16-18 hwy. Expected better from I-6. Wind noise excessive. Engine power good if you get it spinning, poor on low end. Geared too high in overdrive; engine turning below power band, even at 70-75 MPH; poor response, frequent downshifts on slight grade. I mostly drive in "3" below 75, much better response. Might get 4.10 axle next time. On plus side, exterior styling nice, if somewhat plain in LS trim. Interior OK, comfortable, but again pretty plain in LS. Reliability 100% so far (7500 mi). Nice ride, perfect size. Standard stereo, A/C, etc all fine. Despite faults, very good value after rebates.

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  Love it so far! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Studakrn - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Bought my Trial Blazer a month ago, and I am totally happy with it. Its quiet, the ride is great and the power is outstanding. Have onstar, and its totally cool. Test drove several other SUVs and found this to be the most confortable and attractive.