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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  2003 Trailblazer LTZ - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By chris - July 30 - 6:35 am

  Ive had dozens of vehicles in my life and my Trailblazer, knock on wood, has been the most reliable so far. The ride is fantastic and smoother than any other SUV out there (and trust me...I looked at everything out there prior to purchasing). I was all set to get a full size SUV like a Tahoe, but my wife really liked the Trailblazers size, not too big and not too small. Not having a third seat (I opted not to go for the extended length version because I thought the looks were less appealing) will probably disuade some buyers but I really didnt have a need for it. My only complaint is that it doesnt get 30 mpg, but then no SUV does. Lets see if I am still happy 2-3 years from now.

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  Dont buy one - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Ruth - July 29 - 10:05 am

  I have own mind for three years. It has the V8, and it does get up and go. But its been in the shop for things like two new transmisions, still giving me trouble as I write this. Several air conditioning problems since new, and finally last year it ate it self up and they had to replace the whole air conditioner, including all the belts. Right now I have a light on the dash telling me according to the dealer that I have to pay $350 for them to tell me why? I purchase the added protection just about everything they wanted me to purchase, now its all ran out! Before the warranty ran out I was protected. What do I do now since the dealer told me that the air bags arent working?

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  Love My Trailblazer! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Kakki - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Luv It! Great so far! Luv the smooth ride & quiet engine (except when cold). Have had 3 weeks - Bought as used vehicle - got a good deal! First tank poor mileage - 11 mpg which depressed me, but noticed all tires were low (24 lbs) - After proper inflation (32 lbs) 14 mpg/city, 21.5 hwy. (Check your tires) Didnt have use for 4W, but glad I have it -Need place to use 4W once a month to keep seals from drying, Im told!

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  Luv My LTZ - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By LTZGuy - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Very happy with my LTZ 4WD bought 2 years & 60k miles ago. Everyone loves the way the car looks, handles and the quite ride. I looked at the Mercedes, X5, 4 Runnerand the MDX. The trailblazer had the best combination of price, power and features. Zipping around town so much more fun to drive than my Yukon. The car does have a personality with its various electronic problems including electronic side mirrors (replaced 6 times now at dealer) dash board power failures, occasional tendency to try to shift into 4wd Low! on the highway at 80 mph, alarm problems. Overall ive been very happy with a car.

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  Great vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By hessdave - July 27 - 10:00 am

  The V-8 is very smooth and powerful. Great if you are towing anything. While the I6 is an excellent choice, the V8s 50ft/lbs of additional torque is easily noticed. Plenty of room. Try 6 people and about 14 pieces of luggage. Economy is decent for a mid size SUV. 4x4 system is great. Very comfortable vehicle to drive. Feels soft at first, but perfect after you are in the back country all day.

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  Solid and dependable - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By 4 Dr LT 4WD - July 26 - 7:40 am

  This truck is a vast improvement over the 2001 GMC Jimmy I traded in. The engine is smooth, quiet, and strong. The ride is firm and comfortable, even on long trips.

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  Kens Trail Blazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By KennyJ - July 21 - 9:40 am

  Equal to or better than any of the cars, SUVs I have ever driven. Exception is the SL Mercedes ontight corners and turns. Fun to drive

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  Trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rod sou - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Drive smooth Interior design needs some improvements

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  A joy to drive - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By vetta - July 21 - 2:00 am

  As an ex-Tahoe owner I really like this Trailblazer. I felt the Tahoe was way over priced so I took a look at the Trailblazer. In my 3rd week of ownership and love it more and more every day. The ride is wonderful and the engine is very powerful. The inside is very quiet. The only thing I dont like is the seats. There is no support on the sides and they sit kind of high and are not very soft. Other than that this was a very good choice.

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  An excellent vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Stan Adler - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This is the best truck I have owned. It is fun reliable and has excellent cargo space that is easy to axcess. I have four grandchildren and it is easy to transport them safely. The system to anchor childrens car seats is excellent. I have found the the handling to be very good. Four wheel drive is excellent in snow. Smooth ride is easy on my wifes back.