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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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Comfortable, but Noisy and a Gas Hog - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Scott - November 29 - 12:43 pmVery comfortable ride. Very noticable exterior noise, low gas mileage (dont believe the sticker MPG for city and highway). I get 12-16 MPG. I should have spent the extra grand and got the EXT version. Not much truck room for visits to the grocery or building supply store and carrying young family of 4. GM should consider developing a plug on your stereo for your cellphone to be used with your radio speakers.
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More than I expected - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By tcob - November 28 - 10:00 amThe Trail Blazer has turned out to be a more enjoyable vehicle than I expected. Comfort and handling have been excellent. Averaging 18.1 miles per gallon has been another unexpected pleasure. Seats are comfortable for short and long trips. Stereo is more than adequate, clear with virtually no distortion with CDs. Controls are easy to operate and somewhat intuitive. I enjoy the ride.
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Still Blazin - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Mister - November 27 - 1:05 amIve had my Trailblazer LT for over two years now, and absolutely love it! Since I wanted to keep this one for a while, I got it with just about every option available, and have appreciated them all...especially the steering wheel controls. I did lose the drivers window motor and A/C circulating valve early on, but both were fixed with no problems. The ride is smooth, acceleration nice...all around fun to drive. I have OnStar, but would have liked to have XM as the newer models do. City mileage is a little shocking at 14-15 mpg, but highway gets up to 21. As others have stated, the gas tank should be bigger. Thanks GM for an excellent SUV!
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trail blaser - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By gengeld - November 24 - 2:00 amThe transmission went out in the first 400 miles. The engine has a ticking sound dealer said it was normal with this engine.The rear window washer had a kink in the hose and was told for it to work must keep reservior must be half full.Plus other problems. Worst car I ever owned.
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My 2nd SUV - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Super Chip - November 24 - 2:00 amNice, smooth ride. Hauls a full load on the highway effortlessly (V-6). Seats six large men comfortably. Restricted visibility with the DVD player down obviously but the rear views handle the blind spots. Love the way the radio volume gently increases with the increase with interior db level. Theater seating is great!
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Love it! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By elemnopea - November 23 - 9:06 pmI bought my Trailblazer LT 4X4 from a local Chevy dealership and I love it! It has plenty of pep for passing and smooth acceleration. The ride is a big improvement over the compact car I owned before. The dashboard controls are handy. It has plenty of cargo room for my family. My kids love the rear heat and air conditioning.
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Fine Truck - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Dan L - November 13 - 2:53 amIf youre tall and are tired of not fitting into anything, the Trailblazer is a godsend. At 65", I fit perfectly. My knees dont hit the dash or the steering wheel. Drives very smooth and quietly, handles better than the original review states. Plus its more attractive than the competitors.
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"Generally Favorable-But" - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ED Reinhardt - November 10 - 1:52 pmGenerally favorable, confortable,good mileage,particularly HWY, good electronics, espec.ave/miles/gal.etc. However,several minor recalls, 2 tail- light assemblies, one fan motor, + major expense on a "fuel sender-unit" all at 45m-55m miles, make this a frustrating vehicle compared to my two Four-Runners. Might consider another Trailblazer only because of the phychological counseling provided by my dealer!
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Lots for your money - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Doreen - November 8 - 1:53 pmIf you dont drive a lot of miles, the low MPG wont make too much difference. (This was actually cheaper for me to lease than a less expensive vehicle because of special GM rebates, even with the high gas prices.) Comfortable ride and lots of options and cool little features with the Info Center! The wind noise is noticeable, but the nice sound system will make you forget about it. Drives more like a car than a truck. Has lots of room for people and stuff. The dash controls have more knobs than buttons, so you can turn to your choice directly, instead of pushing a button 10 times to get there. Subtle, but nice. Overall, a great car/truck.
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Bills review - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By BillGrab - November 1 - 2:00 amI enjoy the truck qualitys and at the same time I feel comfortable like I was driving a great riding mid to large size car. Its a treat to own and drive.
