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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Great engine - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dmclem - January 24 - 10:00 am

  So far so good. Weve put 6,000 miles on it with no problems. Steering is a little soft leaving the driver wanting more road feedback. Build quality is good and frame is solid. The engine is powerful and responsive - it blows away the competition.

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  Trailblazer woes - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chevy SUV - January 21 - 8:46 pm

  This truck has been nothing but trouble. I have had it into the dealer numerous times only to drive it off the lot & find another problem. The transmission & electrical components are the main concern on this SUV.

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  2005 TrailBlazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By WRC - January 17 - 3:17 am

  Overall I am extremely satisfied with my TrailBlazer. I think there are a few improvements that could be made to better accomodate the driver and passengers but I am sure that Chevrolet will work out the kinks in years to come. Hopefully Chevrolet will find a way to increase the fuel economy on the TrailBlazer. This is my biggest complaint.

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  EXCELLENT CHOICE! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Chevylover! - January 15 - 10:00 am

  After doing extensive research on several mid-size SUVs the Trailblazer was my #1 choice! Despite the editors reviews I find it to corner just fine, the steering is great, and the interior is very clean in appearance. I do not find that it looks low-quality in any way and that car turns heads!! I have a V-6 and, after driving a Maxima for 6 years, it has just as much pickup and engine performance! It drives very smooth and is very comfortable and FUN to drive!!

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  Great SUV - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By mbperkins - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV. Would like better gas mileage. Would like to see bigger tires and rims on LT models.

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  Great driver, not so great problems - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By scott reese - January 15 - 4:47 am

  Drives great especially the performance of the V-8! Love the styling of the exterior, the interior is average. The cloth seats are uncomfortable in front but 2nd row are fine. The Bose stereo is awsome. Weve had no major problems except the apparently common gas tank cracking (which should be recalled)covered by the extended warranty. We had a p.s. noise and the dealership replaced the rack and pinion? Belt squeak started at 25K(vehicle now has 60k).The belt,tensioner,water pump was replaced and then a belt cleaning?! I fixed it with a new belt last week! Fan clutch ticked for a year then quit.

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  ChevyTrailblazerLT - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SuperSUV - January 14 - 7:42 pm

  Great truck, not some flimsy thing like others on the market. Chevy trucks are able to tow heavy loads, too. Fabulous in the snow. Buy a cheap import SUV, get a cheap SUV.

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  Love Mine! - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By K Lawson - January 14 - 11:45 am

  I love mine. If I plan to trade for a new model in a year or two. There have been a few recalls though for minor stuff like the bumper and the molding around the door jams. Other than that it hasnt given me any problems or complaints. It drives excellent in the snow with AWD or 4WD (with the appropriate tires). My children have plenty of room in the back and we use it often to travel. Unlike the car I owned prior to the Trailblazer, there are no complaints from them either.

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  One of the few - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Bert - January 13 - 2:11 pm

  By far this is one of the few midsize SUVs that actually comes close to what it is supposed to do. The interior is actually roomy, I am 62" and I fit more comfortable in this truck than in my Silverado. I do have only one complaint, it is the weather strip for the rear passenger door that just wont stay in place. The sound system is actually pretty decent. The combination of colors for the interior are awesome. I have had my good share of vehicles, I am very satisfied with this particular one.

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  I love it - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Joe Pariso - January 13 - 1:24 pm

  Gets 22.5 on the hiway in 2wd. Did not use 4wd yet, You ride in comfort and security with the OnStar and a 6 cyl eng that you dont hear it run. Very solid and I love to drive it.