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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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:
Showing 861 through 870 of 1,336.00-
excellent toy - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By rohaman - August 21 - 10:00 amthis is amazing machine, thank GM has come out with this practical, yet powerful and economical toy. i will recommend it to anyone
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Trailin Blazer - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By "Trailin Blazer" - August 15 - 7:23 pmIts all in the name. I just bought this vehicle (my 1st Chevy or GM product) and everything about the way this car screams cruising. Yes it has the horses but it takes forever to get up there. The car does not accelerate. Its like being dragged out of bed to go to school when we were kids. It starts off VRRRRRR (do I really have to?) RRRROOOM. Once it gets there, its cruisin. This vehicle is for cruising only and its great for that purpose only. I have the EXT version LS equipped with the basics. Its about as long as a SUV can get. I was surprised at the horsepower this thing has. After owning nothing but foreign SUVs, this GM product has changed my thinking about domestic products.
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timJoan - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Tim Renelt - August 14 - 3:55 pmExcellent SUV, very comfortable with good gas mileage. Transmission/engine occasionally over revs when first started. Chevrolet needs to reduce wind noise.
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Trailblazer Problems - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Big B - August 14 - 1:44 pmWe bought our Trailblazer new, after hearing great things about it, and how it did not have the problems the Blazer was known for (electrical problems,etc.). We are pleased with the handling, performance and comfort, but very dissapointed with the electrical problems we are already having. The wire harness running under the rear seats has worn through. The airconditioner works erratically. Anyone that owns one can tell you of the multilple recall notices regarding brake problems as well as a permanent recall on the rear taillights (burn out continuosly). Our Trailblazer is up for sale... I think I am going back to Nissan or Toyota.
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My Review - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Chevy Guy 2 - August 14 - 10:00 amIve had my Trailblazer for about (3) months now and have had only one problem. The weather stripping on the front edge of rear doors keeps falling off. It is an obvious design flaw as they rely on a small tab at top to hold in place and when door is opened the weather strip is pinched and pops off. The dealer finally glued them in place. The stereo system is so-so, power mirror controls are chintzy, wind noise a bit loud, front seats not very comfortable,and power steering is too over assisted.
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A Super Truck! - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By KATIE - August 12 - 7:01 pmThis is a great all around truck. The only thing that I would change if I could would be the gas mileage, but I love the truck so much that it is worth it. Very comfortable. No blind spots! Very nice!
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Fun New Car! - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By eman116 - August 8 - 6:01 pmNice smooth lines on the body. Rear kicked up to 3.73 ratio really kicks in at 2800-300 RPM. Feels like an extra gear. The ride is so smooth. Mileage is very reasonable. Locations of gauges and gadgets is nice. Instrument cluster is very nice. Full gauges-Gas, Oil, RPM, Tach, Temp, Battery. Engine feels like it always wants to go. Good feeling and response from the engine. Smooth acceleration. Rear cargo hold is easily accessible. Braking has improved too. Stopping my 1995 Blazer was like stopping a bus! I really enjoy driving this car!
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Comfortable and Safe - 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By DrivingMsB - August 8 - 11:04 amGreat truck....glad I bought it! Had an accident 3 weeks after purchase. I was rearended by a car going 30+ mph. You can barely tell I was in an accident. The trailer hitch took 99% of impact. I am very satisfied with this vehicle and would highly recommend it to everyone interested in a resonably priced SUV.
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My First SUV, My First Brand New Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By GaWelch - August 8 - 2:00 amI am more than pleased with my purchase of my new Trailblazer. It handles very nicely, including cornering. Very comfortable and solid. Quick engine response. I have driven full size sedans for the past thirty years, so this was a big change for me. Ive already had it on snow-covered roads and it manuevered very well.
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Excellent Midsize SUV - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By ictflier - August 8 - 2:00 amReplacement for 1997 Blazer. Excellent mileage, even pulling the boat trailer. Several long trips, very comfortable in front and back.
