First Drive: 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Makes a Comeback
Small yet roomy, this SUV has a few rough edges
The Trailblazer is another resurrected nameplate from Chevrolet’s past, much like the Blazer that made a comeback last year.
This time around, the comeback moniker is applied to a small SUV that sits above the Trax and below the Equinox in Chevy’s model hierarchy. This relatively new segment of tiny upright SUVs has been expanding in recent years. Customers are attracted to this new breed's manageable size, decent fuel economy, relatively affordable price, and versatility.
The Trailblazer competes with the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, and Nissan Rogue Sport.
The new Trailblazer is a corporate cousin to the Buick Encore GX. Both share a platform and powertrains, but each has unique styling in and out. The Trailblazer is designed to have a youthful appeal, and some versions come with a contrasting white roof.
The Trailblazer and Encore GX are built overseas by General Motors’ Korean division. We bought our Trailblazer as soon as we heard reports of production suspension and a shipping pause due to the global pandemic.
What we bought: 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT AWD
Powertrain: 155-horsepower, 1.3-liter, turbocharged 3-cylinder; 9-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel-drive.
MSRP: $25,600
Options: $965. Convenience package (Automatic climate control, 8-inch color touch screen, satellite radio, rear USB charging ports), Driver confidence package (rear parking sensors, blind spot and rear cross traffic warnings).
Destination fee: $995
Total cost: $27,560
