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 It looked out of date soon after its debut, and the quality of the materials and construction was always suspect.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 971 through 980 of 1,336.00-
Excellent truck - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Jaybird - October 28 - 2:00 amI have driven a 1985 s10 blazer for 7 years and still drive today. So as a chevy man, I went with a trailblazer as my first vehicle, that I purchased on my own. It has good pick up with the Inline 6 engine and quiet. I tow a 17 foot boat and the truck has no problems pulling it. The only problem I had was the fuel/air ratio was off and the dealer fixed at to charge to me. For comfort and style the trailblazer is an excellent vehicle.
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Love those Blazers since 1982 - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By christina Savo - October 18 - 2:00 amI have driven nothing but blazers and trailblazers since 1982. I get a new car every two years. They provide me with total comfort, safety in all types of weather and reliability,.. meanwhile my friends are taking their cars to the dealerships. Each time I buy a new car, I consider all thats out there...and each time I choose again a chevrolet Blazer and now a trailblazer. They have made me a loyal owner for over 20 years now. Thanks Chevrolet and GM!!
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Love my Chevy TrailBlazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Student63 - October 13 - 10:00 amI have taken my TrailBlazer on many long trips and it was a pleasure each and every time. I am not to big or to small on the road. Gas mileage was excellent. Its a beautiful design inside and out. I have NO regrets buying my TrailBlazer. The OnStar option is a fantastic and handy feature, worth every penny.
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2004 trailblazer - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By cah - October 12 - 2:00 amgreat styling, solid handling, good performance, overall a very good package at a very competitive price
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Great SUV - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By N.morrison - October 9 - 2:00 amI bought this vehicle in 2003, commute to work 27 miles from 5400 feet down to 2000 feet through snow and heavey traffic. This vehicle handles fantastic in the snow high alitude (9600 Ft) Sonora Pass. Thank You GM :>)
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Great SUV...Traded in 2005 Escape - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Kimb - October 9 - 2:00 amI love this SUV...I had just bought a new 2005 Ford Escape and kept having problems with it and 1 time while it was in the shop I rented a Trailblazer.. I was sold.. After continuing to have problems with my 2005 Ecsape.. I traded it in on a 2004 TRAilblazer... I love it... Much better SUV!!!!!
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Excellent - 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Mathius - October 7 - 2:00 amI have recently purchased my Trailblazer and loved it since I drove it off the lot. It has just enough power to tackle the day to day things and great gas mileage. This is my 4th GM built vehicle and I have never had a problem with any of them.
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Great Ride!!! - 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Shuba - October 6 - 10:00 amOn road and off, this vehicle has performed wonderfully. 21K miles without any mechanical problems and much better gas mileage than previous explorer.
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My TrailBlazer - AWESOME - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By Robby Hukka - October 5 - 2:00 amIve had my Chevy TrailBlazer for almost two years now and I do some really heavy driving. Not only has my TrailBlazer been outstanding in the 52,000 miles it has taken me it gives me a sense of security while Im on the road. My TrailBlazer is not equipped with OnStar but its powerful presence and large stance makes me feel empowered on the road.
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Luvn the Trailblazer EXT LT 4WD - 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
By LB&K - October 1 - 2:00 amThe vehicle handles very well, extremely quiet inside. Great comfortable smooth ride.
