2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV

　　

2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　, rating written byDan FrioSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　Chevrolet's habit of grafting old model names onto new cars may agitate purists, but we say why let a good name collect dust? Today's subcompact Chevy Trailblazer bears little resemblance to its truck-based midsize SUV namesake from two decades ago. It's more comfortable, easier to park and gets better fuel economy. It's also respectably roomy for people and cargo. Standard features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android, lane keeping assistance, and a flat-folding front seat that helps accommodate long items boost the Trailblazer's appeal.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　Not Available  for Trailblazer LS

　　Trailblazer LS

　　LS 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) - $23,100 MSRPLS 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $25,100 MSRPLT 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) - $24,300 MSRPLT 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $26,300 MSRPACTIV 4dr SUV (1.3L 3cyl Turbo CVT) (Most Popular) - $27,100 MSRPACTIV 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $28,700 MSRPRS 4dr SUV (1.3L 3cyl Turbo CVT) - $27,100 MSRPRS 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $28,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　For 2024, the Trailblazer comes with a new screen array up front, starting with an 8-inch display behind the steering wheel with configurable digital gauges. In the center of the dash is a new 11-inch widescreen infotainment display, a significant upgrade from last year's standard 7-inch (or optional 8-inch) screen. Other changes for 2024 include standard cruise control on the base trim and push-button start on all models.

　　In Chevy's lineup, the Trailblazer sits between the similarly sized Trax and the larger Equinox compact SUV. The redesigned 2024 Chevy Trax is a little longer and wider than the Trailblazer, with fractionally more cargo space and rear legroom. It's slightly less expensive, too. But the Trailblazer still offers more power, optional all-wheel drive and slightly taller ground clearance. It's a smart pick for a versatile subcompact crossover, but it's worth shopping the competition, which includes the tech-loaded Hyundai Kona, the athletic Mazda CX-30 and the refined Volkswagen Taos. Check out our Expert Rating below for a deeper dive into the Trailblazer's performance, comfort and more to learn if it meets your needs.

　　

Which Trailblazer does zzdcar recommend?

While the base Trailblazer LS offers a few more standard features for 2024, like last year, we'd still opt for the LT trim. It's better equipped than the base LS trim, adding features such as tinted windows, keyless entry and heated side mirrors. We'd opt for the all-wheel-drive version since it pairs with the more powerful engine, then add the Driver Confidence package for its helpful driver aids.

　　

Chevrolet Trailblazer models

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a subcompact SUV offered in four trim levels: LS, LT, Activ and RS. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine (137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft of torque) paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Choosing all-wheel drive adds a stronger turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine (155 hp, 174 lb-ft) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Keep reading for our rundown of the Trailblazer's most significant features and options.

　　LS

　　The most affordable Trailblazer comes with some advanced tech, but its convenience and refinements are otherwise pretty basic. Standard features include:

　　17-inch alloy wheels Automatic headlights Push-button start Flat-folding front passenger seat 60/40-split folding rear seat 11-inch infotainment touchscreen Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (both with wireless connectivity) Two USB ports Six-speaker audio system Forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios) Lane keeping assistance (steers the car back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)LT

　　The LT trim adds several upgrades, including:

　　17-inch black machine-finish wheels Roof rails LED foglights Heated side mirrors Tinted rear windows Heated front seatsActiv

　　The Activ trim adds off-road-oriented hardware, more power and visual presence with:

　　1.3-liter turbocharged engine All-terrain tires Off-road suspension settings Underbody skid plates Tow hitch receiver Dual exhaust pipes Two-tone roof Synthetic leather upholstery Power-adjustable driver's seat Heated steering wheel Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob Rear-seat center armrestRS

　　The RS is similarly equipped to the Activ, but it trades the more rugged hardware for a sportier street-style look. Notable differences include:

　　19-inch wheels Dark chrome exterior trim Red interior accents Flat-bottom steering wheelThe Trailblazer offers a handful of option packages, including: 

　　Driver Confidence package Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot) Rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while in reverse) Rear parking sensors Convenience package (LT trim and above) Auto-dimming rearview mirror Additional USB charge ports Household-style power outlet Automatic climate control Stand-alone options include:

　　Panoramic sunroof Hands-free liftgate Wireless smartphone charging pad Bose premium audio system Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Trailblazer and the car in front)

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