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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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:

• 

  You really need to drive one of these! - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Brian - July 20 - 11:26 am

  I have owned every kind of vehicle from a Hyundai Excel to a Ford F150 and everything in between. Aside from my Honda Accord, this is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Smooth. Pretty quiet, but the mirrors do make some noise. I like the way the controls are set up other than the wiper control and cruise control stalk. Why does GM insist on the same control stalk I had on my 1984 Fiero? On a $30k+ truck? Fuel mileage quite good considering this truck weighs more than my F150 ext. cab 4x4 (!!). Its sharp, relatively refined and very comfortable. I would buy another one without question, and would recommend anyone shopping SUVs gives this truck legitmate consideration.

• 

  Excellence with exception - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Debi - July 18 - 1:54 am

  Smooth, comfortable ride with many ammenities. Gas mileage 12 city, <18 hwy. Some recalls on wipers and seatbelt safety (but did not occur in my vehicle after inspection by dealership). Seems to be problem with rear lights - have replaced bulbs several times. I would buy another but this was the "first year" for the model. Just had to work out the bugs.

• 

  Dont buy it - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jpf94 - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Since Novemeber 2001 Ive had my TBlazer in 21 times. First to go was the 4whd selector switch, then the oxygen sensor, then the 5 recalls, one of which was done last october and I got another card on yesterday! The gas gauge does not work anymore. Ive had the front diff. seals fail.

• 

  Ok when not in shop - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By singingsg - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Overall Ive had a pretty decent experience with my trailblazer other than when it has been in the shop to fix recall problems. Other than the recall things, I havent had any trouble with it. It has a very nice and comfortable design for travel or family. It has a lot of room in it. I use it to pack up our groups sound equipment which there is a lot of and I can tote all of that in the back plus the 5 of us in the front comfortably.

• 

  the best - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By billy Joe - July 15 - 2:00 am

  It is one of the best cars that I ever drove !!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!! !!!! !!!!!! !!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!! !!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!

• 

  An American Rovlution - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Rock - July 14 - 1:34 pm

  The TrailBlazer has an excellent ride going long distances. The exterior is excellent from a quality standpoint. You can see where they cut corners on the interior. The plastic that protects the odometer cracked from wear and tear and you have to press a button 4 times to turn the lights off during day riding. But, the car for the most part is dependable and is terrific in the snow. It has excellent pickup and smooth acceleration. I like the aggressive front as well. I would recommend it and by another one

• 

  Impressed thus far..First Chevy purchase - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MLJ - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Great truck! First SUV, first Chevy product (Previous Nissan). It is everything that Chevy built it up to be. Got nearly 20 miles/p/gallon on a highway trip at 55mph max. Only concerns: 1. Drivers seat feels unusually off center from controls. (brakes especially) 2. Received sporadic seatbelt and airbag warning. (went away after shut engine off and re-started) 3. Few workmanship flaws on exterior body. (ie weather seals with excess glue)

• 

  LT - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jerry melillo - July 13 - 1:20 am

  The vehicles interior is less to be desired. Cheap looking plastic. Handling around corners leaves much to be desired. On the positive side it is very dependable and quality built as well as a great exterior design.

• 

  TrailBlazer - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By sarah - July 3 - 12:25 pm

  Very roughly made. Ceiling around sunroof already falling in at 3k miles. Not much space in console for anything. Cup holders do not work well.

• 

  Good Value - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Good Vaule - July 2 - 1:40 pm

  The SUV is want a bad purchase if youre looking for a nice ride which has had no major issues. The recurring problem is if you dont turn the gas cap 2-3 Full turns after you fill the tank the engine light would come on which can be very annoying. It will shut off after about 7 start-ups. If not, you have to take it to the dealership so they can reset the darn thing. Overall, not a bad buy and with the peace of mind that their are Chevy dealers everywhere if you were to need service.