Potential buyers in search of a budget-friendly compact crossover SUV with all-wheel drive should take a closer look at the newest Chevy Trailblazer.
Following a minor design refresh and technological enhancements for 2024, the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer, with a TCC Rating of 5.8 out of 10, stands out with its spirited turbo-3 engine, surprisingly spacious interior, and impressive tech offerings for a reasonable price, all packaged in an attractive design. However, fuel efficiency is average, the all-wheel-drive system is basic, and its presence next to the Trax in Chevrolet showrooms adds confusion for consumers.
Listed below are the advantages and disadvantages of the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer after a week of ferrying my children to various activities in the suburbs.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Pro: Trailblazer is equipped with 3 cylinders
While it may have one cylinder less than some rivals, this characteristic adds uniqueness to the Trailblazer. Every Trailblazer is fitted with a turbo-3 engine, with the base models featuring a smaller 1.2-liter engine producing 137 hp. In contrast, my fully loaded RS tester was powered by the larger 1.3-liter engine generating 155 hp. Opting for the all-wheel drive replaces the lackluster CVT with a 9-speed automatic transmission that operates smoothly and efficiently. The turbo-3 engine delivers peppy performance with a distinctive sound and ample power for city driving. Though demanding highway overtaking maneuvers may be challenging, it remains an enjoyable companion for daily errands.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Con: Trailblazer appears to lack fuel efficiency
Despite solid EPA ratings of 26 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined for my all-wheel-drive test model, achieving these figures seemed unattainable. Over 155 miles of mixed suburban driving in chilly Minnesota conditions, the Trailblazer returned an average of 22.0 mpg, which is subpar.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Pro: Trailblazer offers ample room
Despite its compact dimensions, the Trailblazer surprises with its generous interior space. Accommodating a family of four comfortably, seating five with three in the rear bench would be a bit snug. I, being 5-foot-10, could sit comfortably in the rear seat with the front seat adjusted to my preferences. This is made possible by the impressive 39.4 inches of rear legroom. With the rear seats up, the cargo space measures 25.3 cubic feet, expanding to 54.4 cubic feet when the second row is folded down, making it suitable for large shopping trips.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Con: Trailblazer’s all-wheel-drive system is underwhelming
The Chevrolet Trailblazer comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all trims can be upgraded to all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000, ideal for regions with heavy snowfall. However, the manual activation of the system is a drawback. Unlike most systems that engage automatically, the Trailblazer requires the driver to press a button to activate it, and it remains active even after restarting the vehicle. This setup sacrifices fuel efficiency and convenience, unlike systems that automatically toggle on and off. For instance, the Hyundai Kona features a locking center differential for improved traction on slippery terrains.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Pro: Trailblazer boasts an array of technology features
Chevrolet has equipped the Trailblazer with a suite of tech offerings that elevate its appeal beyond its budget status. Priced at $34,670 for my fully loaded AWD RS tester, which is nearly on par with a similarly equipped Hyundai Kona and slightly more expensive than a Subaru Crosstrek Limited (the latter boasting a more upscale interior than both the Chevy and Hyundai). The Trailblazer comes standard with an 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11.0-inch touchscreen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities directly from the Trax. The dashboard design and functionality are reminiscent of the Trax. Additional features in my test model included a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, auto up windows, automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, and a power liftgate. By opting out of some of the optional features, it feels like a budget-friendly yet feature-rich offering.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Con: Trailblazer adds complexity to Chevrolet showrooms
The primary challenge faced by the Trailblazer, and potentially its competitors, is its proximity to the Chevrolet Trax at dealership lots. The Trax, with a 3.3-inch longer wheelbase (resulting in a marginally improved ride) and 5.1-inch longer overall length, offers similar interior space to the Trailblazer. While the Trailblazer starts at a slightly higher price with almost identical features in base configuration, making it a less attractive entry-level option, the Trax lacks all-wheel drive as a choice. Both models are manufactured in South Korea. It might be prudent to consider granting the Trax all-wheel drive capability and merging these two similar models under one unified offering.
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