Big Time Confidence in a Small SUV
Not all crossovers are created equal — some are built for excitement on the road, while others are designed to turn heads. The Chevrolet Trailblazer happens to be one of those eye-catching delights. Crafted as a compact alternative to the Chevy Blazer, this Trailblazer, despite its name, is more at home navigating city streets than conquering off-road trails. Beneath its sleek exterior, you'll find a choice of either a spirited 137-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder or a zippier 155-horsepower turbo-three engine. These powertrains won't exactly encourage speeding in a Trailblazer, but they offer a fun ride with plenty of room to move. The front-wheel-drive models come with a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the all-wheel-drive Trailblazers opt for a smoother traditional nine-speed automatic.
Comparing it to rivals like the Kia Soul and Nissan Kicks, the Trailblazer may not be the champion in terms of fuel efficiency or price, but it does take the lead in the infotainment department, sporting the largest touchscreen among the three. Interestingly, despite its compact size, the Trailblazer makes smart use of interior space by allowing the front-passenger seat to fold flat, giving room for long items.
Comparing it to rivals like the Kia Soul and Nissan Kicks, the Trailblazer may not be the champion in terms of fuel efficiency or price, but it does take the lead in the infotainment department, sporting the largest touchscreen among the three. Interestingly, despite its compact size, the Trailblazer makes smart use of interior space by allowing the front-passenger seat to fold flat, giving room for long items.
Model Details
Engine & Performance
Similar to the older Chevrolet Trailblazer, the newer model offers two distinct turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter and a 1.3-liter. The former generates 137 horsepower, akin to the previous iteration's engine power. Meanwhile, the larger 1.3-liter engine pumps out 155 horsepower, providing slightly more power than the older Trailblazer. For the 1.2-liter, front-wheel drive is the standard setup and pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The 1.3-liter offers optional all-wheel drive and is mated to a more responsive nine-speed automatic transmission.
In comparison to the older model's performance, the acceleration of the 1.3-liter all-wheel drive Trailblazer tested exhibited a 9.4-second time to reach 60 miles per hour, showcasing a similar pace to the older Trailblazer model. While the new Trailblazer provides improved efficiency and slightly increased horsepower, both old and new Trailblazers demonstrate similar acceleration times.
In comparison to the older model's performance, the acceleration of the 1.3-liter all-wheel drive Trailblazer tested exhibited a 9.4-second time to reach 60 miles per hour, showcasing a similar pace to the older Trailblazer model. While the new Trailblazer provides improved efficiency and slightly increased horsepower, both old and new Trailblazers demonstrate similar acceleration times.
Interior & Cargo
The cabin's aesthetic doesn't boast the same playfulness as the exterior, yet it is spacious, practical, and furnished with numerous conveniences, particularly in the higher trims. The seating position is elevated, akin to an SUV, and the rear seat offers ample room for two adults to relax comfortably. While the interior largely features black plastic, the textures are appealing, steering clear of a cheap appearance. The higher-tier models include vibrant trim elements and chrome accents, enhancing the overall upscale feel. There's a roomy cargo area behind the rear seat, and the Chevy offers not just rear seats that fold flat but also a front passenger seat that can be folded, ideal for accommodating elongated items.
Infotainment & Technology
The Trailblazer features an 11.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard. It's equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration along with SiriusXM satellite radio. The LT, ACTIV, and RS trims offer wireless phone charging, and the available Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to stay connected for all their streaming requirements.
Trailblazer Trims
Activ
Starting at $27,100
- ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine
- 17-inch high-gloss Black machined-aluminum wheels
- High-gloss Black mesh grille with Titanium chrome accents
- Off-road suspension tuning
- Functional skid plate
- Available contrasting roof color
- ACTIV badging
- Heated, wrapped steering wheel
- Black bowtie emblems
- Black roof rails
- Evotex seating surfaces
- Dual-outlet exhaust with trapezoidal polished tips
- Heated front seats
- Power driver seat
RS
Starting at $27,100
- ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine
- 19-inch high-gloss Black machined-aluminum wheels
- High-gloss Black mesh grille with dark chrome grille bar
- Available contrasting roof color
- RS badging
- Red interior accents
- Heated, wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel
- Black bowtie emblems and nameplate badging
- Black roof rails
- Evotex seating surfaces
- Dual-outlet exhaust with round polished tips
- Heated front seats
- Power driver seat
LT
Starting at $24,300
- 17-inch high-gloss Black aluminum wheels with machined face
- Keyless Open and Start
- Remote vehicle starter system
- Silver-painted roof rails
- Deep-tinted rear-window glass
- Heated body-color outside rearview mirrors
LS
Starting at $23,100
- 11-inch diagonal color touch-screen and 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Center screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android AutoTM compatibility
- Chevy Safety Assist
- ECOTEC® 1.2L Turbo engine
- 17-inch Silver-painted aluminum wheels
- Bright chrome grille bar
- New LED headlamp design
- Fold-flat front passenger seat
- Keyless Start
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Two front USB ports†(one type-A and one type-C)
- 4-speaker audio system
- Teen Driver technology
- Cruise control
- Sirius XM® Radio.
Popular Models
