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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Comfortable ride with good power - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By BrewTownDan - February 1 - 1:16 pm

  One of the most comfortable riding SUVs Ive ridden/driven. Handles very well, but the 4WD is lacking if youre really in the thick of things. Definitely opt for the locking rear differential if youre going to test its limits. The interior is a bit drab could definitely use some sprucing up. However, the large controls are very user-friendly. The numerous rear storage compartments are useful. Actual workmanship of the vehicle is ok, but after only 4 years of ownership, door moldings are working their way loose and rust is developing from the inside-out along the bottoms of the doors. Taillight lenses and license plate lights also let in far too much moisture.

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  Loving the space! - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By crashjacks - January 29 - 8:51 pm

  This vehicle is a great buy for the price. Bose option is fabulous. Gets in and out of parking like a smaller vehicle. Large rear cargo area. Sits high like a Siverado. Great in traffic.

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  New Car Trouble From the Start - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Yorkie - January 28 - 11:23 am

  This car was a candidate for the lemon law. I bought this car fron newand in the first year to 18 months it had trouble starting first time in cold weather, after at least 4 visits to the garage and 2 battery changes a short on the earth lead was found. It also had a problem with the seal around the licence plate disappearing down the back, again this was repaired 5 times, taking 1 hour 30 mins each visit. To top it all off at 4 years old I was told the steering gear might be going. Needless to say I decided to sell at this point. A new car that was nothing but trouble from the start, the customer service from Chevy leaves a lot to be desired.

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  Needs improvement - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jcfisherking - January 26 - 8:12 am

  Had problems with mine. Wheel wells kept falling down, trim around doors fell off several times, transfer case had to be rebuilt at 33,000. Vibration in drive train transferred to rattle under dash that caused me to dump the thing. I couldnt stand being in it when the rattle/vibration started. Never buy one again, ever. Recommend not buy!

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  Cant keep it running - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By R. Breski - January 25 - 8:48 pm

  Currently in shop w/ 46k, at 25k new cylinder head, at 35k new trans, at 45k new cylinder head again, and while they were in there found timing problem. Like everything about the vehicle but it just wont stay away from the service department. Owned GM all my life, never had an experience like this, not sure if Ill buy another. Did I mention they have had this vehicle in and out of service for a total of around 2 months.

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  Chevy Does It Again!!! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Shigemi Pebley - January 22 - 1:16 pm

  I enjoy my sisters 2003 Tahoe, but wanted something a little smaller. This TrailBlazer is a dream come true. Chevy did it again!!! I purchased a 2005 TrailBlazer LS (w/ additional options) last month, and it is the best vehicle that I have ever purchased!!!

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  2003 Trailbrazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By masonsmom - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Love the exterior look of this vehicle, the interior is nice but could use some nicer touches. The ride is to die for, comforable, great travel vehicle, plenty of room for 4 or 5 people. The engine handles towing my boat without a problem and when you need to pass in a hurry the engine is right there for you. Havent tried it in snow yet, but Im looking forward to it. I would buy this vehicle again.

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  SS TrailBlazer - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MOONLIGHT CRUISER - January 20 - 1:34 am

  Not a bad truck. Has alot of power. Drives pretty smooth for a truck, handles well. All around truck. I am a car guy. Has just as much power as my CTSV, that tells it all.

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  Absolute Joy to Drive - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By KW - January 19 - 9:18 am

  After much debate, I finally purchased the 07 TrailBlazer SS. Didnt get a lot of the frills, bought mostly for performance and I absolutely love the power and exterior looks. Not too crazy about the interior dash and the standard radio. Would definitely suggest at least getting the upgraded Bose sound system. The fuel economy isnt that great which seems to get less than my 02 Infiniti QX4 rated with the same mpg of 15 city and 19 hwy.

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  Wind Noise! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By T Hensley - January 17 - 8:37 pm

  I have always had GM products. After all the wind noise my TrailBlazer has this may be my last. People who ride in the back seat alway ask if the window is all the way up. After a while my wife and I just laugh. When I took it back to fix the wind noise I was told this is a bad feature with the 2005 models. We took it back again, and let them know we didnt pay all that money for a bad feature. It has been at the dealership for 6 weeks. They have tried many things but wind noise is still there.