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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  WHERES MY TRANSMISSION ? - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By cmp glsn - May 2 - 10:00 am

  At 35,000 miles I lost reverse, second and my overdrive gears. The GM technician commented that there were problems like mine in the GM trucks that have identical transmissions. At 74,000 miles it fails again. Now here I sit, thinking GM will stand behind their product. WRONG!!! I asked GM if they are able to build a transmission that could last more than 35,000 miles...they laughed at me. I work for Goodyear/Gemini and you only have one shot with your customer. GM blew it!!! I would never treat my customers this way if I knew they felt uncomfortable with any product or service that I sold. BUY TOYOTA!!! Your best deal is great service, not a great price.

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  Excellent mid-size choice - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bryan L. - April 29 - 7:43 am

  I purchased a 2005 TrailBlazer LS 4WD three months ago with 7000 miles on the odometer. No problems everything works as it should. Living and driving in Chicago, its a perfect SUV (for me) for this terrain. Excellent visibility, super-tight turning radius, and it surpresses all of those rough roads and pot holes with ease. Great power from the 4.2L inline six cylinder (almost 300hp) and experienced 17.5 mpg around the city and 21.5 on the highway. No drifting has been experienced at highway speeds. The TrailBlazer has been around for awhile and has a proven design that works well for most.

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  Could be Better - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Could Be Better - April 28 - 4:24 pm

  I really liked the look and the feel of the vehicle when I bought it. After 2 months it was in the shop for sway bar links, 4-wheel drive switch, and the 4-wheel drive had to be reprogrammed.That was over $2500 worth of work. I am waiting for more to go wrong, I was driving and noticed it is now making the same noise it did when the sway links went out. When will it ever stop?

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  Jacks Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Blazen Jack - April 26 - 2:00 am

  I have owned (3)regular style blazer and have found my new trailblazer an exceptional vehicle. Ride, Style, and features. My hats of to Dean Patterson Chevrolet for being, what I believe is one of the best, if not the best dealership I have delath with in my 62 years. Kudos to GM for the new trailblazer

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  Wish I hadnt - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By kgonz - April 24 - 6:56 am

  Have only had this car for 3 months, and Im more than ready to get rid of it. Cant stand the hideous gas mileage Im getting (13.5mpg). And the obnoxiously loud "ding ding ding" of the interior alert. I was told that when the "fuel low" alert turned on, it meant I had about 40 miles left. It ended up being more like 10 miles-which left me stranded on the highway in the rain! Think this is the last American car Ill buy, most definitely the last Chevy.

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  Family fun wagon - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Scott at Water - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Im happy with this suv.The front seats could be more supportive,maybe similar to the full size truck.Its the right size but I think a 5.3 V8 option in this short box style would suit me and my driving style better.I hate 2500- 3000 rpm revs.It handles and drives good for what it is. Fuel mileage is not what modern tech should be at with this model.Again give me 16 valves and 8 cylinders for less money than a 24 valve high winder. I would buy another for this price point its a good deal.

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  I love this SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By JayDub - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I only recently purchased my TrailBlazer, but I love it. It may not have has many toys as the LT, or LTZ models, but for pure driving pleasure it is just as good. The engine as one would expect has tremendous punch to it. It really takes off when you hit the gas. The ride is smooth and quite. In fact, if you are driving on the highway, you will hit 75-80 mph before you know it. I had put off buying this SUV for year (when the 2002 TrailBlazers arrived). If you want a smooth, powerful truck, buy this one.

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  Love my Trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By trailblazing babe - April 11 - 11:56 am

  Ive only had my TB for 2 weeks and I am very happy with all of it. The smooth ride, interior, sound, exterior is exceptional.

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  Last Chevrolet - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By DonMac - April 7 - 2:00 am

  within the first year, weather molding on all four doors fell off. Dealer wound up gluing on to make it stay. They said it was a poor design. Climate control went out and had to be replaced. Driver front window regulator had to be repaired twice. Fuel guage quit and sending unit had to be replaced. Emergency brake cable broke and had to be replaced. You have to move front seats forward in order to lower rear seats. Problem when you have long legs.

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  Content with TrailBlazer LTZ - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By content - April 7 - 2:00 am

  My First SUV in ages... Very satisfied with this barely used [9900 miles] Loaded TrailBlazer LTZ. Ive had it one month and put 1000 miles on it so far. First roadtrip was 300 miles in a winter storm that brought 10+inches of snow so I was able to try out the AWD and 4WD options and had no troubles with either rather was surprised at how well it travelled with both. -2nd cup holder is hard to use if you have your cell phone and/or radar plugged in as the cords block its use.