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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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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  Better than expected - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By brian - September 2 - 3:50 am

  Driving my 2005 Chevy Trailblazer LS is like going from night to day , comparing driving the vehicles iIve had in the past . Theres hardly any if any road noise , a quiet engine , powerful 275 horsepower straight 6 engine . Showed my truck to co-workers and they were amazed on how Chevy has the inline 6 again and so was I . And with OnStar was a huge plus I will have that option when it expires in 2006 . It comes one year free , with also 30 minutes of phone useage also . Its very fun to drive and can accelerate quickly when needed . Down side even though you get use to it , it has a feeling of as if youre on a boat sometimes . Thats my only complaint and also the gas mileage .

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  What happened General? - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By bob larson - September 1 - 5:17 pm

  In a little over 2 years, I have had all 4 window motors fail, the power drivers seat motor fail (glad I bought an extended warranty) and both tail light lenses replaced , which were on a recall. The ride is very comfortable, and the transmission is smooth. I would recommend the V-8. The inline 6 loses too much speed going uphill, as well as any incline. Overall, I have always owned General Motors products, but the experience Ive had since owning this vehicle have made me realize why the American manufacturers continue to lose market share.

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  Excellent power, sub par fuel economy - 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By burt - August 31 - 10:51 am

  I pull a 2700lbs boat and I have been very pleased with the pulling power and handling when Im towing.

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  Good so Far - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Crookie - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Taking a gamble with an American made SUV following 3 year stints with Pathfinder and Lexus LX450. Needed the 3rd seat (3 kids), and the Trailblazer/Envoy had the best (by far) 3rd seat with room behind it for storage. Love the ride - much less "trucky" than the Lexus. Bose system is fantastic. Lateral seat support could be improved. Separate 2nd seat tuner is favorite of oldest child. With 2 child seats in second row - not much extra room for third person. A little too much plastic on dashboard.

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  Early but happy - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By jughead - August 30 - 11:42 pm

  Only 3 weeks into my new LS but all indications are excellent. Love the ride despite some reviews of mushy cornering. I dont take corners at 75 mph so its fine by me. Interior is just fine, easy to use and reach controls, simple and straight forward. Looks great on the road with planty of power. Hard to pass up with the GM family discount and rebate for just over 24k OTD. Overall I am very happy with it, so far.

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  Chevy Owner - Never Again! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Unhappy TB Owner - August 30 - 5:00 pm

  This was the worst Chevy I have ever owned. Previously, we were religous Chevy buyers...never again. The air conditioner broke, and it took the dealership 3 weeks to fix, the windshield wipers broke, the fuel tank split, and the engine needed to be replaced after 40K miles. This vehicle spent more time in the shop than it did on the road. We never used it for off-roading, or towing anything, it was mainly used for long highway trips. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone! Dont be fooled by the nice exterior or interior...it is a piece of junk!

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  Trail Blazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By Mike - August 25 - 10:40 pm

  Very powerful engine for a V-6, sleek exterior, very roomy interior, great suspension, feels like you are riding on glass.

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  Underrated - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By dearbornguy - August 23 - 4:37 am

  Ive had this truck for 10 months problem free. The ride is not as good when first bought new , but its still better than most mid size SUVs. Solid SUV , would buy again .

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  2002 Trailblazer - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By ALB - August 22 - 1:57 pm

  Purchased 10/2004 - GM certified - vehicle has been to the garage at least 5 times since then - 2 or three times because it seems to lose power when coming to a stop - transmission coolant lines have had to be replaced - over 2 days worth of labor - vehicle in garage for over a week - when going up a hill, I wonder if I am going to have to get out and push - seems to be geared too high - power substantially reduced if air conditioner is on - gas mileage leaves something to be desired - transmission shifts roughly sometimes - however, I really have enjoyed the room and the actual driving - drives really well - quite a bit like a car

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  Excellen work of Art - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
  By luis - August 21 - 10:00 am

  This is just an amazing that really topples the competitor. Size, Comfort and Reliability is out of Question. On its third year, you look everywhere and you will see Trailblazers. First year could be a hiccup but over the years, they just keep on improving. I am puzzled why other owners have issues and problems with it. Maybe they just dont know how to take care of this lovely machine . Keep in mind that they are machines, and their performance depend on how the owners run it. As they say, show me your car and I will tell you what you are ..