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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Overall - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Mark G - August 10 - 4:55 pm

  My family and I recently traveled 1,600 miles with no problems. SUV performed well. It appears that Chevy has a winner in performance and little maintenance expense other than normal maintenance.

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  Chevy Trailblazer 2002 - my experience - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By McCulloch Family - August 7 - 10:00 am

  This is a comfortable, solid SUV. I have had problems with the performance. I bought this used at 17,000 miles. Shortly after my purchase, the truck was stalking while sitting at a stop light or in the driveway. It has been taken at least 6 times into the dealership for them to verify the problem. We have finally duplicated it in their presence. The problem has been sent to GM Engineers because they dont know what is wrong with it. I am concerened with the safety of the vehicle in this condition, however Chevrolet is not. Also - it is difficult to see out the back window when reversing.

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  3 Years and Running Great - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jay - August 5 - 12:51 am

  Over the past 3 years, very little complaints from me. Comfortable seating for all with lots of room. Not one single problem with the engine. It turns on a dime and the pick up it a bit sluggish but good enough. Not bad on gas getting 21mph on the highway and 16-18mph in town.

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  Best investment I have ever made - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Molly - August 5 - 12:37 am

  Its easy to handle. Easy to get in and out of places. Very dependable. Very easy to get in and out of.

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  Old Gold - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By J&D - August 3 - 12:55 pm

  This is a very nice SUV to drive, very smooth, great views, turning radius is long but you can live with it. I drive 50 miles one way to work and am always very comfortable. Wish gas mileage was a little better however, but you take the good with the so-so. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone in the market for a midsize SUV

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  My TrailBlazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Marge_in_AZ - August 3 - 10:00 am

  After driving a 5-speed manual Chevy Silverado for 11 years, this is a dream car.

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  1 Year Later - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MLJ - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Purchased new last July. Great vehicle so far. Great snow and offroad performance. I like the engine and power. Some interior and front end sqeaks. Air bag light problem previously reported has gone away. Getting 15-17 mpg city driving.

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  New EXT Owner - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Joe Alferio - August 3 - 10:00 am

  This is the third SUV weve owned. The first was a Grand Cherokee and then a standard 4-door Blazer. This is by far the nicest family size vehicle weve ever owned. We are amazed at the roominess in the third row seats. You really can seat 7 full size adults in this vehicle, just like Chevy advertises. The performance and handling are superior to every SUV and pickup weve ever owned. The interior is well laid out and well put together. All in all, a joy to own and drive, so far.

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  Love my SUV - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By andrea - August 1 - 6:20 pm

  Im a mother of 2 active children who has to have friends go everywhere we go. I really didnt like the feel of driving a minivan, plus it wasnt 4WD so I thought I would try an SUV. I love it. I wouldnt buy anything else. I can count on it to get me through tough snow storms with ice and rain. Theres enough room for 7. and not be jammed in. Gas mileage is just as good as a van. Im getting 19 mpg in town and about 23 mpg on the highway. I love my SUV

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  Pleased - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By ERIC - July 31 - 7:36 pm

  As a family of four, the TrailBlazer has served us well and lived up to the utility in "SUV". We are currently looking at a new one.