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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  03 EXT TrailBlazer w/ 5.3V8 NorthFace Ed - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By SadamSez - December 14 - 2:00 am

  At the moment, I have a total of 4500 miles. Still rather new. The V8 is getting better than expected mileage. Better than my 98 Blazer w/ the V6! Im mostly around town in stop & go & I have every option on the thing so weight plays a factor. Avg. 14+ easily. Fit & finish is typical G.M- nuff said. But is holding up well, so far. Smoooth V8 & ride from the EXT model. Quiet too. Great Bose system. Nice features w/ NorthFace! I would be jhappy to assist anyone interested who is concidering one of these vehicles!!!

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  A good solid truck - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By slider1727 - December 14 - 2:00 am

  Horsepower and torque exceed others in its class. I took a Pathfinder owner for a ride and he agreed that the TBlazer had more kick than his truck. I have a black Tblazer with the deep tint package and I get a lot of questions asking me what kind of truck I have. That is something that a Ford Explorer owner will never get!

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  2002 Trailblazer LTZ - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By MThode - December 13 - 4:20 pm

  The power, handling and look of the Trailblazer is great. I have read some reviews that say the front seat belts are awkward, but being 54", I find them very comfortable. They dont ride up on my neck. I wanted a SUV that I wouldnt be afraid to take camping, pull jet skis, or other wise use it for what you bought it for. Some SUVs we test drove were too "soft". The Ford Explorer (we traded in our Explorer) was too plain. The Trailblazer had the right look and feel for us.

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  Great buy - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By tigerfan - December 13 - 7:34 am

  I have the 2005 LT 4x4 regular wheelbase with the amazing 4.2L 291hp six. This car is underated by many consumer magazines. This is still the most powerful 6 cylinder SUV you can get. V8 power, 6 cylinder fuel efficiency. I pulled a 5500 pound trailer last month about 400 miles, and the Trailblazer took it with ease. It can also pull my two ATVs to the camp and back through moderate off road conditions with no problem, thanks to the automatic four wheel drive. After 11,000 miles, I find that my highway mileage is around 23, city mileage is as low as 17. Seats are comfortable, and the new updated interior has better trim materials than before, but it is still a little odd looking.

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  so far so good - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By daisy - December 12 - 10:00 am

  My trailblazer has been a good suv so far, My husband took it for a long drive, 2000 miles and it drove well. Vehicle is comfortable to drive and is the perfect sized suv. Good exterior styling.

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  very surprised - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By tinetine - December 9 - 2:00 pm

  first rented this vehicle by accident, was supposed to get another model. after a trip a thousand miles away, this vehicle was comfortable, roomy and very smooth riding, I told my husband that when i got ready to purchase another vehicle that a Chevy trailblazer was going to be that vehicle. 3 months later I am the proud owner of a Chevy trailbalzer and I love it!

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  Not bad, just not worth the money - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Max - December 9 - 1:01 pm

  The SUV is not bad. The paint finish is not good. Too much orange peel. I have had a few minor problems. I am starting to feel and hear a slight clunk sound when I start out only after I apply the brakes to stop. I dont think it is the transmission, just sort of like something sliding back in to place. The gas mileage is very poor. I get around 15 in town and 18 to 20 on the open road. 90% of my driving is on the interstate, thank goodness. I am not sure that I will rush out and get another GM SUV.

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  My First American Car....a Winner! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jay Bee - December 7 - 1:50 pm

  Very nervous about purchasing my first American car, but heard very good things about this model. After 3 weeks, I am very pleased with my choice....inline 6 cyl. runs like a dream, whisper quiet, with similar gas mileage to the much less powerful V6 in my Rodeo. Interior appears simple and functional and attractive to me...exterior looks great and turns heads. Biggest sell is plenty of interior room for 62" 225 lbs. driver!

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  Poor - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Pedro Villalon - December 5 - 10:28 pm

  Tens of mechanical problems, roof lining fell off, engine got stuck in first gear, needed towtruck, hydro sterring wheel pump failed, needed towtruck, had to replace motor and sensor of fan, 4x4 selector on dashboard had problems, jump from one gear to another, had to be replaced, to check the air pressure in the spare tire requieres to lower the tire from its niche. Big problem. Stops lights connectors are tiny wires that with vibration get loose, you have to put them apart to tighten them. Drivers seat is as comfortable as sitting on nails, the rest of the seat are ok. Wheather trim on right front door fell off. Can´t wait to sell it. Too bad it´s a company car and have to wait a year.

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  My Chevy Trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Elaine Wade - December 5 - 12:47 pm

  I have been very pleased with the overall performance of my Trailblazer. It is very comfortable for long and short driving periods, with adjustments for a drivers height and back comfort preferences. Despite the reviews about poor performances on handling on curves, I have found my Trailblazer to be very smooth on curves which I usually take at above average speeds. I have enjoyed it so much, as have my children, that my daughter purchased a 2006 Trailblazer also. This is one of the best midsize SUVs on the road without the need for the Lexus or Cadillac prestige price tags and logos. I can drive it off road, which I do, wash it and go to church or to a social function in style.