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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  GM through and through - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bret - May 17 - 1:05 am

  I needed a car that I could drive and get some of my money back after a couple of years. This car stickered at $36000 new and I thought I got a good deal with all the rebates. Here it is two years later and it is only worth $14000 in good condition. Ridiculous! Last American car I will ever own. The interior looks like a first grader made it in a class project. All the weather stripping around the doors is falling off, the radio has been replaced twice( I dont know why I even bothered the thing stunk to begin with), the bumper covers are warping, funky smell from the vents and the cheap chrome sticker that they call a grill is is peeling off. Volkswagon Touareg here I come.

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  Bad Gas Mileage - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Lou - May 13 - 9:37 am

  Lucky if this ride gets 13-15mpg highway! I am getting rid if it. Very uncomfortable seating when you have to travel some mileage. Seats do not adjust for comfort.

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  TrailBlazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SW Driver - May 12 - 7:57 pm

  This car has been reliable and is extremely comfortable. I bought it used over a year ago and have not had one problem. I have been very pleased with the purchase. There is a little road noise and if I do not get the gas cao on tight enough, the Service Engine light comes on. Other than that, it is a great vehicle.

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  Most Nice - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Unknown - May 12 - 11:53 am

  It is a great vehicle to drive. I love it. The truck in my opinion is one of the best SUVs to come out in 2002

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  i love my TrailBlazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By sandra - May 11 - 12:13 am

  i have had my TrailBlazer for about a month, and I love it. The third row of seating is easy to get to and all the seats fold down easy and fast to make the cargo area bigger. At first I didnt like the TrailBlazer but my husband talked to into it. Now I dont think that he will ever be able to drive it. It is powerful enough to get in and out of traffic but is good on gas if you are taking it easy. I test drove a Jeep (didnt like it, felt drifty) and Explorer (didnt like it, didnt have a third row) as soon as I sat in the TrailBlazer I fell in love. I cant say enough good about it! You just feel safe! I had 3 adults and 4 car seats and everyone was comfy no one was smushed.

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  No Resale Value - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By anothergmidiot - May 9 - 10:00 am

  The TrailBlazer as well as all GM vehicles has no resale value. The vehicle that you paid $30000 18 months ago is now only worth $17000 in excellant condition.

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  Satisfied -- should have researched more - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Nikki - May 8 - 2:13 pm

  I bought this vehicle a month ago, upgrading from a 2002 Chevy Prism with only 33K. Main reason for purchase was 1)bored with Prism 2) sick of stepping up to get out of the car (I am 56 and always wear heels) 3) more substantial vehicle in size, weight, etc. 4) 4WD However, my car payment increased by $125 (my own fault, maybe I was a bit hasty) and gas mileage is very poor. Also something I tried to kid myself about, so for an SUV the gas issue is to be expected. If I was not in such a rush to buy a different vehicle, I wouldve gone with something like the Mazda3 Hatch or Subaru Forrester. It gives the hatch feature w/o the truck feel. I am enjoying the truck, but mostly cause I have to.

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  I love my truck! - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By LuvMyChinaBabies - May 6 - 9:20 am

  I had a 2000 and 2001 Blazer before bought the 05 Trailblazer. I am 6" tall and had a hard time in the older models because my head would be in the sunroof--pretty uncomfortable. The 05 sits up higher and the head clearance is taller so I have lots of head room. The back seats are great for the kids (2 in car seats and one not). They are not cramped. I love this truck--the interior is great. I have the dark ebony interior and it is super for families with small children- -you cannot see the stains. All in all I love it and would purchase it again in a heartbeat. I am looking forward to the next model

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  Trailblazer - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By William S. Frye - May 2 - 11:56 pm

  After five days and only 250 miles of driving my 2006 Trailblazer the left rear tire blew out while driving on the Interstate at 70 MPH. I was able to safely get the vehicle onto the shoulder. When I examined the tire, I noticed the sidewall had seperated from the tire tread. Im an automobile mechanic and have seen this type of damage many times. It is caused from driving on a flat tire. I had not idea that I had a flat tire, the ride, stability and handling of the vehicle did not give any indication of a flat. To cause the sidewall to seperate, I had probably driven several miles with the tire flat. It handled so well in this situation that I feel very safe driving it.

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  Good but not Great - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By The Mow Man - May 2 - 10:34 pm

  Like the truck, but it can be improved.The seat belt location is hard to reach, it eats headlights and tail lights. Good power, lots of room for hockey equip, dogs and kids. Nice looking. Thinking about moving to newer.