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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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

• 

  Smooth Truck - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Great Truck - June 8 - 7:19 am

  I bought this TrailBlazer used and spoke to the original owner before purchasing. He traded my TrailBlazer for a new 06 TrailBlazer. He stated he would not own anything else. Well, now I know what he means. I cannot get over the comfort and the extra room I have verses my Explorer. The ride is so smooth especially for a 4x4. My Ford Explorer is also a 4x4 and is ridged and rough in its ride. I also love the extra leg room. My husband and son are really tall guys and they are cramped in the Explorer, they are loving the TrailBlazer! This is the best truck I have ever owned.

• 

  My Review - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By IH - June 2 - 11:32 am

  I have been a fan of Chevy all my life. The TrailBlazer is comfort, style, class, and power all wraped into one big Chevy. I would definitely say that this is one of the most fun filled SUVs I have ever owned. The power of the TrailBlazer is unmatched by any other SUV I have ever owned. I would totally recommend a TrailBlazer anyday over an Explorer to anyone!

• 

  Great Vehicle for the Price - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Brian Nisbet - June 2 - 2:00 am

  I bought the 2wd with the posi rearend. Dont need 4wd, I drive on plowed roads. I love the truck handles nice great with the family, if you have more than two kids get the extended. It comfortable fits four people 5 is a crowd.

• 

  TrailBlazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Willifords - June 1 - 10:00 am

  The Trail Blazer handles well under Colorado weather conditions. We are impressed with the SUVs pulling capabilities. The brakes, however, are a bit soft. Cheverolet should beef up the braking system in newer models.

• 

  The best SUV we have ever owned - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Logan Franks - May 29 - 2:01 pm

  Our 2002 Chevy Trailblazer is just about to hit 300,000 Miles on the odometer. We have done regular maintenance every 3,000 miles. We have had only one minor issue, which was a coil pack. Everything else about this vehicle has been perfect. Ours is our daily driver and is garage kept. I tend to do around 100 miles of driving on it each day. It is an amazing truck.

• 

  Love it, hate all of the little problems - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By AHall - May 28 - 10:09 pm

  Bought the TrailBlazer new in March. We have ejoyed the extra room with our small little family. Also love the power the strait 6 gives us, but with that comes the terrible gas mileage! I have also had it back to the dealer 3 times now for adjustments to the doors because the wind noise is so bad. Tonight I got home and started to roll the power windows up and the driver side completely stopped working. Here is another trip I am going to have to take to the dealer. Other than all of the stupid little problems I am having to put up with, it is wonderful!

• 

  TrailBlazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Wes p - May 28 - 6:46 am

  Front seats not as comfortable as should be; seem to lean in to the center with lack of support. Drives and rides great its just the fuel economy is just not what it should be. 16mph on average is not good when the mini van was about 25mph.

• 

  Nice truck - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Joe - May 24 - 1:09 pm

  I purchased this vehicle used with 75000 miles on it and am very happy with it. Very comfortable with plenty of power. Auto 4wd works well. Styling is nice inside and out. Runs very smooth. I recommend vehicle.

• 

  No Regrets - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Tundraman - May 24 - 12:04 pm

  Bought the TrailBlazer 4WD LTZ brand new almost 5 years ago, trading in my 96 Grand Cherokee Limited. Fuel economy, handling, power, reliability and quality are all about the same. The Chevy has better interior space and comfort although I think the front seats could be better. I think the Chevys style, ride, stereo and other gadgets are better than the Jeeps. The only thing I miss is the sound of the V8. Chevys V6 might have plenty of power but the sound of it is almost embarrassing. The trips back to the dealer have been infrequent, just regular servicing, fixing the turn signal on the side mirror that the car wash people broke and to fix a ding in the hood.

• 

  Fun to drive!! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By gmforever - May 19 - 2:00 am

  We bought this Trailblazer to replace two vehicles, an exteded cab pickup & my wifes work car. We are very happy with the ride and performence of this trailblazer. Very quiet for a suv and the handling is also great! Very good dealer experience,probably the best we have ever had.