Chevrolet Trailblazer: Honest Review & Should You Buy?

by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey guys! Thinking about getting a Chevrolet Trailblazer? You've come to the right place. I’m going to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know, from performance and features to the nitty-gritty details that really matter. So, buckle up, and let's dive into this Chevrolet Trailblazer review!

Overview of the Chevrolet Trailblazer

First things first, what exactly is the Chevrolet Trailblazer? Well, it's a compact SUV that slots in between the smaller Trax and the larger Equinox in Chevy's lineup. Think of it as the Goldilocks option – not too big, not too small, but just right for many people. But does it live up to that ideal? Let’s see.

Exterior Design

On the outside, the Trailblazer sports a modern and somewhat aggressive look. It’s got sharp lines, a bold front grille, and available two-tone color options that definitely make it stand out. The overall design is eye-catching, and it manages to look both rugged and refined. Depending on the trim, you can get features like LED headlights, roof rails, and stylish alloy wheels. Visually, it’s a strong contender in its class, offering a fresh and appealing aesthetic that sets it apart from some of its more conservatively styled competitors.

Interior Comfort and Design

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s functional and reasonably comfortable. The design is simple but effective, with a focus on user-friendliness. Materials are a mixed bag – there are some soft-touch surfaces in key areas, but you’ll also find plenty of hard plastics, which is pretty standard for this segment. The seats are generally comfortable, especially on longer drives, and there’s ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Higher trims offer upgrades like leather upholstery and heated seats, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

Technology and Features

In terms of tech, the Chevrolet Trailblazer comes equipped with a decent array of features. The standard infotainment system includes a touchscreen display (usually around 7 or 8 inches), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims add features like a larger touchscreen, wireless phone charging, and a premium sound system. Safety tech is also a highlight, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert. Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are available as options, enhancing the overall safety and convenience.

Performance and Handling

Alright, let's talk about how this thing drives. The Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a couple of engine options, and honestly, neither of them are going to blow your socks off in terms of raw power. But they're adequate for daily driving and offer decent fuel economy.

Engine Options

The base engine is usually a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, which produces around 137 horsepower. There's also an available 1.3-liter turbo-three, which bumps the output to about 155 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the CVT does its job, it's not the most engaging transmission out there, and you might find yourself wishing for a traditional automatic at times. The 1.3-liter engine is the better choice if you want a bit more pep, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

Driving Experience

The Trailblazer provides a comfortable and composed ride on most road surfaces. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer road trips. Handling is decent, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. It's not a sporty SUV by any means, but it's easy to maneuver in tight spaces and feels stable on the highway. All-wheel drive is available, which adds extra confidence in slippery conditions.

Fuel Economy

One of the Trailblazer's strong suits is its fuel efficiency. With the 1.3-liter engine, you can expect to get around 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is pretty good for a compact SUV. The 1.2-liter engine offers similar numbers. These figures make the Trailblazer a practical choice for those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle without sacrificing too much space and versatility.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

Space is always a big concern when you're looking at a compact SUV. The Chevrolet Trailblazer does a pretty good job in this area, offering a decent amount of room for both passengers and cargo.

Passenger Comfort

The Trailblazer can comfortably seat up to five passengers. Front-seat occupants have plenty of headroom and legroom, and the seats are supportive enough for longer journeys. The rear seats are also reasonably spacious, although taller adults might find the legroom a bit tight on extended trips. Overall, it's a comfortable vehicle for small families or couples who occasionally need to carry extra passengers.

Cargo Capacity

When it comes to cargo space, the Trailblazer offers a competitive amount of room. With the rear seats up, you get around 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the rear seats down, and that expands to 54.4 cubic feet. This is enough space for groceries, luggage, or even some larger items like sports equipment. The Trailblazer also has a flat load floor, which makes it easier to load and unload items. A hands-free power liftgate is available on higher trims, adding extra convenience.

Trims and Features

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is available in several trims, each offering a different set of features and equipment. Here’s a quick rundown of the main trims:

  • L: The base trim comes with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of safety tech.
  • LS: Adds features like alloy wheels, a compass display, and rear-window privacy glass.
  • LT: Includes features like remote start, heated front seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, and roof rails.
  • Activ: This trim is designed for those who want a more rugged look, with features like a unique front fascia, sport-tuned suspension, and off-road tires.
  • RS: The sporty trim, with a blacked-out exterior trim, unique wheels, and red interior accents.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the good and the not-so-good.

Pros

  • Stylish Design: The Trailblazer has a modern and eye-catching design that stands out in its class.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Excellent fuel economy, especially with the 1.3-liter engine.
  • Standard Safety Features: Comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety tech.
  • User-Friendly Tech: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Cons

  • Engine Performance: The engines can feel a bit underpowered, especially when fully loaded.
  • CVT Transmission: The CVT can be noisy and lacks the engagement of a traditional automatic.
  • Interior Materials: Some of the interior materials feel cheap.
  • Rear Seat Legroom: Rear-seat legroom can be tight for taller adults.

Competitors

The compact SUV segment is crowded, so the Chevrolet Trailblazer has plenty of competition. Here are some of its main rivals:

  • Kia Seltos: Offers a similar blend of style, features, and value.
  • Hyundai Kona: Known for its fun driving dynamics and bold styling.
  • Mazda CX-30: Provides a more premium feel and engaging driving experience.
  • Nissan Kicks: A budget-friendly option with good fuel economy.

Should You Buy the Chevrolet Trailblazer?

So, the big question: Should you buy the Chevrolet Trailblazer? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped compact SUV with a focus on safety, the Trailblazer is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for small families, urban dwellers, or anyone who wants a versatile vehicle that's easy to drive and park.

However, if you prioritize performance and want a more engaging driving experience, you might want to look at some of its competitors. The Trailblazer's engines can feel a bit underpowered, and the CVT transmission might not be to everyone's taste. Also, if you frequently carry taller passengers in the back seat, you might find the legroom a bit tight.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is a solid contender in the compact SUV segment. It offers a good balance of style, features, fuel efficiency, and safety. While it's not perfect, it's a well-rounded vehicle that's worth considering if you're in the market for a small SUV. Just be sure to test drive it and compare it to its competitors before making a final decision. Happy car shopping, guys!