Chevrolet TrailBlazer

Base models get a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine. All-wheel-drive as well as a larger 155-hp, 1.3-liter and a nine-speed automatic are also offered. The 1.3-liter is responsive and fuel efficient. For its small footprint, the Trailblazer provides ample room but thick roof pillars and the lack of a third side window compromise rear and side visibility. The ride is decent but handling is rather clumsy. Road noise is pronounced. Standard active safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance. It also offers optional blind spot and rear cross traffic warning.

We also found the brakes unimpressive in our tests. Wind noise is pronounced and the seat-mounted seat belts are awkward to use. Electronic stability-control became standard starting in 2006, which made emergency handling more secure. The EXT version, which offered seating for seven, was discontinued after 2006, and the entire model line was dropped after 2009.