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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Good offroad vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jack - December 2 - 12:12 pm

  Trips include rough offroad and long distance events. Performed well. Problems with clunky second gear shift after four wheel driving. Also, cruise control fails after. Reason unknown but re-enters after battery disconnect for 30 min.

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  Happy TB Owner - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By DFerrin - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely no problems. My TrailBlazer is much nicer to drive than a Ford Explorer. Edmunds should test the upscale LTZ model instead of trashing the entry level model.

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  Hate my TrailBlazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By towldy - November 23 - 2:57 pm

  I have always been a Chevy person, but this will be my last one. Bought this SUV new and have had problems with it. At 9,000 miles a rear door started rusting on the inside. I am on my third set of hatch shocks. First time they went bad I almost got my arm caught in hatch. Fan belt squeals every morning and I get 12 miles per gallon. Really dissapointed with this vehicle. It only has 13,000 miles on it. GM quality is a major issue.

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  New vehicle honeymoon - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By gmfaithful - November 23 - 10:55 am

  I know that it is too soon to make any long term judgement but the TrailBlazer we bought exceeds our expectations. When researching vehicles we consistantly read that the suspension of the TB was less than good which kept us from considering the TB. We had a relative who drove an 06 and they said that they were pleased with the ride and handling. We got the LT (loaded) and so far cant drive it enough. Incidently, we also drove the SS. If it had not looked too pretentious for a couple of 50+ it was tempting.

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  New SS - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By nealn - November 23 - 12:22 am

  Overall I think that the SS is a good value for the money. I went from an 04 VW Touareg with almost every option stickering at $52 to the TB SS that stickered for $42 and after rebates and supplier discount picked the truck up for $30K. A lot quicker, believe it or not, better gas mileage and dont have the typical "VW Annoyances" like electrical problems and poor craftsmanship that they charge top dollar for and look at you funny when you complain about it. Seats are fairly comfortable on long trips, maybe adjustable headrests for us taller folk. Fuel economy isnt the greatest, but what "sports car" is? Overall its a tight feeling and riding vehicle, would recommend for an "everyday" car.

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  TrailBlazer 06 - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Daisydog - November 22 - 1:49 pm

  This is the first SUV that I have ever owned or driven. I bought it because it has 4 wheel drive and I travel to Minnesota several times a year. The ride is great. I like the size and being able to see traffic. The one thing I find difficult is looking back to check cars that I have passed, I am only 52" and the head rests seem to impair my vision field. I like the overall size and the ease of getting large items in and out of the back end. To date I only have great things to say. Winter is coming, so I will test my "snow" skills at that time.

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  Second Time Around - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By BOB - November 21 - 2:03 pm

  I had an 03 TrailBlazer LT. The first year, I swore Id never own another. The next 2 1/2 years it was very reliable, enough so that when my saleman called me with a deal that was too good to refuse, I went for a fully loaded LT with leather, sunroof, heated seats. Subtle interior changes make it seem a lot classier than the 03. The only exterior change is a restyled grille, and a lower hangover on the rear bumper, so you cant see the spare tire. If this one is as reliable as the last one (after the first year) Ill be driving this well over 100k.

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  My 03 Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By JR - November 19 - 11:47 am

  Good truck for the money. Very reliable straight 6 but could use a little bit more "pep". Im thinking about installing a K&N Air Intake Kit to get those few extra horses and it will also give better gas mileage.

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  Excellent vehicle - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Benmercer - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This is a great SUV for the money. Its the perfect size for our family.

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  A True Performer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Xygris - November 3 - 8:07 pm

  I have had my TrailBlazer for two years now and I havent had any problems which is surprising as I got the fully loaded version with all the extras except for the DVD and navigation. I thought I would be willing to put up with some problems for the price but I havent had one! My first scheduled maintenance service was at 25,000 miles and only cost me $66. I love the oil life monitor that comes with the onboard computer, because I do not beat on the vehicle. Ive only had to change the oil three times in 25,000 miles. And I do get 15.1 miles city and 17 mpg on the highway because I keep it waxed with nufinish and use the cruise control. I have towed to near its rated capacity with four people.