The Trailblazer is Chevrolet’s latest offering in the compact SUV segment, delivering style and versatility at a reasonable price. A diverse range of trims allows the Trailblazer to fit the varying priorities of small SUV shoppers. Its convenient size and efficiency make it great for city driving while some optional off-road equipment gives you the ability to take it anywhere. The Trailblazer’s first year of production is 2021.
Pros: Bold and sharp styling; Diverse trim offerings; Optional off-road capabilities
Cons: Power figures lower than most competitors; Lower trims feel dull inside
The Chevrolet Trailblazer comes in four trims: L, LS, LT, RS, and ACTIV. The L trim starts the Trailblazer around $19,000. Standard with the L is forward collision alert with emergency braking, front pedestrian detection, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, automatic high beams, LED day time running lights, 16-inch steel wheels, a four-speaker audio system, steering wheel-mounted controls, cloth seating, and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The LS bumps the Trailblazer to around $21,500 and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system, a flat-folding passenger seatback, and carpet floor mats.
The LT trim begins around $23,500. Additional features include tinted glass, LED fog lamps, roof side rails, cruise control, power driver seat, heated front seats, proximity keyless entry, and remote start.
Both the RS and ACTIV trims start near $25,500 and add LED taillights, dual exhaust, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a rear center armrest. The RS differs by adding some sporty details like an aggressive-looking front fascia, 18-inch wheels, cloth and leatherette seating trim with red stitching and interior accents.
The ACTIV goes in a more rugged direction with leatherette seating, 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and an off-road-tuned suspension.
Overall the interior of the Trailblazer features impressive attention to detail for the segment and price point. Most interior surfaces are soft-touch and texturized. There is a nice variation of materials and finishes used that help makes the cabin feel more upscale.
Material quality in lower trims is not as nice as some competitors, but as you move up in trims the materials greatly improve. The vehicle controls are straightforward and easy to get the hang of. There are multiple compartments that provide a handsome amount of storage. The absence of a rear AC vent could limit passenger comfort on longer rides.
The Trailblazer has two different engine options. The first is a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that makes 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. This engine is standard on the L, LS, and LT front-wheel-drive models.
The second engine is a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that puts out 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. This engine is reserved for the LS and LT all-wheel-drive models, as well as all RS and ACTIV models. All front-wheel-drive Trailblazers are paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all-wheel-drive variants are paired to a 9-speed automatic.
