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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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Trailblazer LS - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By regina Nolan - September 8 - 10:00 amLove everthing about it!!
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Trailblazing with a Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By William Phillips - September 8 - 10:00 amTook the new Trtailblazer on a 6000 mile trip from California through Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It was very comfortable driving 600 to 800 miles a day. Did not feel exhausted after spending that much time driving. Fuel economy was very good on the highway, but dropped off somewhat in city driving. The in line six engine ran very smooth and it was a pleasure to drive.
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Good truck - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By T-Blazer owner - September 6 - 10:35 pmThe TrailBlazer is a good alternative to a crew cab pickup truck. It is a solid off roader, good tow vehicle, and can be had at a good price. The locking differential is a must for any towing or off roading, as is the skidplate. The TrailBlazer doesnt drive as good as a Highlander or Pilot, but they cant tow what a TrailBlazer can. Nor can they match its truck-like capability. The roof rack is functional and sturdy, and holds my kayak and supplies (300 lbs) easily. Mileage is decent (22ish highway, 17 around town). If you worry about fuel, then buy a crossover. The tight turning circle really makes it easier to park than my Mazda 6. Bargain hard!
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Great SS - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Mark - September 6 - 12:29 amIm really enjoying my TrailBlazer SS. If you have owned a previous TrailBlazer, I promise your experience was nothing like the SS. It looks, rides and drives like a totally different vehicle. I drive mine daily, and hate when I have to get out. Fuel economy is about like that of a 1/2 ton truck and the power is awesome.
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So much better than my CRV - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By CRV Trader - September 2 - 2:00 amI just traded my Honda CRV-EX and boy am I glad I did.The Trailblazer has lots of nice convenience features (auto headlights, dual climate control, entry lights, etc...) It is very quiet and smooth. My parents both have back problems and are thrilled with the ride. The gas mileage is decent for the power under the hood. My first tank got exactly what the sticker says which is more than I can say for the Honda that never got the stated City mileage even on the highway. This is a nice SUV. With the incentives and a dealer thats willing to make a deal you can get a lot for your money. I traded the CRV Id only had 6 months and Im very happy so far.
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Transmission Blew out at 20K - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Kevin - September 1 - 1:30 pmThis vehicle is another typical poorly snapped together American tin can. My wife and I decided to be loyalto the US manufacturers, and I have not had a US made car since my Dodge Dart slant 6, which was ugly but reliable! This TrailBlazer was aptly named. Hit the trail and something under the hood will soon be ablaze, as I was told when I had an engine fire at 5,342 miles that was due to oil that spilled on the block. I disagree, since it looks like it originated from a cluster of wires that looks like a rats nest. Then my transmisssion completley failed at 19,456 miles and needed to be completley replaced. They blamed it on us saying we had driven the car hard. We use it to shop!
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Joy Ride - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By big rob - August 27 - 9:57 pmThis vehicle is simply the finest SUV I have had. I am a big guy at 6-5 and over 300#. I fit fine and this thing is fast! I mean we are talking an SUV here folks but it gets down and goes. I have always had SUVs or Trucks and my last was a 450+hp supercharged Avalanche. This is so much more fun. The suspension is tight and very predictable. If you want one, get one. I needed one. I got mine and you cant have it. Enjoy
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Excellent SUV - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Cmac - August 24 - 4:46 pmI have a North Face Edition, and it is a FANTASTIC car. it looks GREAT, especially with the extra lights.
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Good choice - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By tallbored - August 22 - 9:11 amI have the LT 4x4 regular wheelbase with the amazing 4.2L 291hp six. This car is underated by many consumer magazines. This is still the most powerful 6 cylinder SUV you can get. V8 power, 6 cylinder fuel efficiency. I pulled a 5500 pound trailer last month about 400 miles, and the TrailBlazer took it with ease. It can also pull my two ATVs to the camp and back through moderate off road conditions with no problem, thanks to the automatic four wheel drive. After 11,000 miles, I find that my highway mileage is around 23, city mileage is as low as 17. The dashboard is intuitive, but ugly. Check the Envoy out if you worry about that kind of thing.
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My SS - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By R GOLDING - August 17 - 7:13 amIve only had mine for five months, but Ive been tracking the production of the SS since its days on the drawing board. Working in a Chevy dealership makes me a bit biased I guess, but this car is all I was hoping it would be. I love driving my car every day. The only drawbacks would be the fuel economy and the lack of a dual exhaust. Go out and buy one. Its a blast!
