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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Best Vehicle Ever - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Mary Jo - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV, I have owned 4WD cars before and luxury cars. Now I have the best of both worlds. Its awesome to drive, rides as smooth as a Caddy and had amazing off road capabilties. The access to the third seat is awesome, even easy then the Tahoe and with plenty of cargo space.

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  Only beat by the Chevy Tahoe - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By lovemyCTB - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the best SUVs I have owned. I have had 1999 Ford Explorer which I hated and 1997 Ford Expedition, wich other than the cheap seating and terrible gas mileage was a nice vehicle. I had a 96, 97, 99, and 2000 Chevey Tahoe. They were all great vehicles except for the 2000 with the full time 4 wheel drive that sucked gas like a pig. They were the most comfortable vehicles I have owned, but this new 2003 Chevy Trail Blazer is right up there with comfort and it is great to drive. I have the 3:42 differentials and get 23MPG or better on the highway at about 69MPH with 87 octane gas. I get a bit less mileage when I use the 89 octane ethanol gas.

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  Chevrolet TrailBlazer LTZ - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By QGI1DWS - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is very comfortable and quiet on long trips, as well as off road. Off road capabilities are much better than the many reviews that I have read, e.g., AutoByTel, Edmunds, KBB, etc., would lead one to believe. The DVD entertainment is very nice, and the Bose audio is great. Fuel mileage is about the same as our 1996 Chevrolet Blazer LS 4WD, with much better ride, handling, and appointments.

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  Nice ride but some problems - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jerry Hohman - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Love the look and the drive, but was disappointed that it wound up back at the dealership to have electrical problems searched. In Arizona heat, the air conditioning has difficulty at first cooling down the passenger compartment. Once underway, the AC System has no problem keeping up. Have had problems with the security system. Sometimes it seems to have a mind of its own. All in all, I would purchase this vehicle again.

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  My Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By E K - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Best vehicle I have ever owned. No problems whatsoever in the 25000 miles I have put on it. More than ample room for my family on long trips. Smooth and very quiet drive. I definately recomend people to test drive one if they are in the market for a midsize SUV.

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  Trailblazer LS is a great vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Jon Midbo - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The car is far superior to other competitive models in this class which we tried. Its 6 cyl engine is superior to most others 8 cyl. in power, performance & economy. The car is comfortable, great suspension, nice appearance, easy entry, road worthy, etc. My son drives a new Explorer and prefers our Trailblazer.

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  Awesome Trailblazer - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By LoriAnn - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the best Chevy SUV yet. What else can I say?

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  Love This Truck - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By angela - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Even though I have only had my truck for 4 months, I can honestly say that it could possibly be the best vehicle I have ever owned. I went from a 98 GMC Jimmy to a 2003 Trailblazer LT and cant even tell you how much my new truck drives like a luxury car. I can even say that I think the bodystyle looks better on the Chevy than its sister vehicle the GMC Envoy. Simply said, "I love this Truck"!

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  My Grandmother Car - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Vidiot - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, looking forward to trying it this winter in New England. Suits my needs as a grandmother of 2 and 2 more coming. I get many compliments at my place of business.

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  Be careful - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By rerunkitty - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Although this WAS my dream car, and I would like another, buyer be ware. Our engine blew 12 months after purchase. The AC has been replace (front and back, the windsheild wipers went out in a torrential downpour, the starter has been replaced, the 4 wheel drive LOW engaged by itself while I was driving. We have a LEMON. GM should have done the right thing and replaced but they said they were bigger than the law and refused. All items were bulletins - there are many on this car that you may not be aware of.