Introduction

The Chevrolet Trailblazer - A full-sized SUV with the true American lineage. It is as big as SUVs get and comes with the right mix of performance, features and space. Launched in India to rival mainly the Toyota Fortuner, the Trailblazer is the first vehicle that has everything in terms of package to make a mark in the segment.

Why I’d buy it

In a segment where everything is loud and crude, the refinement of the Trailblazer stands out. And it is does not come from a smaller engine, the 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel producing 197bhp and 500Nm is a lot more powerful than the competition. I love this drivetrain, the torque delivery is relentless and the six-speed automatic does well enough to smoothly deliver the power.

Then there is the size of course; it is wider and longer than both the Fortuner and Pajero, making it the largest in the segment. So if road presence is what you are looking for, then it can’t get any bigger than this in the passenger vehicles (at least till the Ford Endeavour makes a comeback). Also, the bulk has actually translated into cabin space. We found the third row to be a lot more useable in the Trailblazer; an adult can sit here for a longish drive, which is near impossible in the others.

Why I’d avoid it

The Trailblazer is an import from Thailand. While it hasn’t affected the pricing since the two countries share a trade pact, the service might become as issue. Chevy is known for its extended warranty and relatively low ownership cost, but the parts will have to be imported and that might cause a delay in fixing the car. Also, the duties in certain cities are higher for imported vehicles compared to the ones built or assembled here.

There is no all-wheel-drive, so if hardcore off-roading is on the cards, then the Trailblazer does not fit the bill. Apart from that, there is hardly anything against the vehicle itself. Although, the thing to consider will be the fact that the bowtie logo has lost sheen and does not get enough respect anymore.

My favourite version

There is only one diesel version, the LTZ, with six-speed automatic and all the features like the driver-side power seats, touch screen music system with rear camera and sensor, independent AC vents for three rows and cruise control. The safety net includes ABS-EBD, ESP, hill hold and descent control and front dual airbags.

Quick facts

Price: Rs 26.40 lakh

Engine: 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel – 197bhp / 500Nm

Gearbox: six-speed automatic

Fuel efficiency: 11.45kmpl (claimed)