New Chevy Trailblazer

After a 12-year hiatus, the Chevrolet Trailblazer has made an impressive new appearance for 2021. This all new subcompact crossover has been redesigned to deliver a smaller crossover functionality, a bolder appearance, and a more modern feel. Here is an overview of the freshly updated 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

Mechanical

The new Trailblazer is available in both Front Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive to increase its versatility (you can upgrade to All-Wheel Drive on any trim except the base level trim).

The Standard ECOTEC 1.2L Turbo engine is paired with a Continuous Variable Transmission and can produce up to 137 horsepower and 162 lb. ft. torque. However, this engine can only be paired with a Front Wheel Drive configuration of the Trailblazer.

The ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine can produce up to 155 horsepower and 174 lb. ft. torque. This engine comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission, and can also be paired with an available 9-speed automatic transmission if you desire.

The 2021 Trailblazer also has an Engine Block Heater, to ensure that your morning drive will be as smooth and efficient as possible since the mechanical pieces in your crossover are kept warm.

Exterior

There are many conveniences built into the new Trailblazer like roof-mounted rails, and a locking fuel-filler cap comes standard across the board starting at the LT trim. There are features such as a two-tone roof and Panoramic Sunroof that can add an extra sense of style and pizzazz to any drive you take. Additionally, a Hands-Free Liftgate, Keyless Entry Keypad, and Deep Tinted Glass are all awesome features to consider.

Interior

With the ability to seat up to five people, standard flat-folding seats, a maximum of 54.4 cubic feet of cargo space and best-in-class passenger rear-seat leg room, the Trailblazer is a one-of-a-kind family fun vehicle. Utilize the flat-folding front passenger seat, and haul cargo up to 8.5 feet long, making almost any project achievable with the help of the Trailblazer.

Along with impressive passenger and cargo capacity, the Trailblazer also has a charging option for every device. With a wireless charging pad, a 120-volt powerpoint, USB charging ports, and a standard auxiliary input jack there are almost no limitations on what device can be charged or connected at any one time. You will also discover that connectivity issues become a thing of the past with the standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi® capability the Trailblazer has to offer.

Speaking of connectivity, all trims come standard with a 3.5” diagonal monochromatic driver information center which can be upgraded to a 4.2” diagonal color driver information center. All Trailblazer trims also come standard with a 7” diagonal color touchscreen, which also can be upgraded to an 8” diagonal color touchscreen. Along with impressive screen technology, the available Bose® Premium 7-speaker Audio System will also blow your mind.

Let’s not forget the available all-weather floor liners/mats, Leatherette Seating options, 10-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, and Automatic Climate Control that make every ride as comfortable as it is enjoyable!

Safety, Security, and Technology

Available Packages

Towing and Drive Modes

With the ability to tow up to 1,000 lbs., when properly equipped, the new Trailblazer is not known for its towing capability. However, it does provide several very useful driving modes to elevate the driver’s proficiency in any road conditions. All trims come with a Normal mode and Sport mode, and the All-Wheel Drive mode is added to the AWD configurations, and the Front Wheel Drive configurations are equipped with a Snow mode in place of the All-Wheel Drive mode.

Fuel Economy

The new Trailblazer carries with it some impressive fuel economy numbers. The 1.2L Turbo engine can get up to 28 mpg City / 31 mpg Highway, whereas the 1.3L Turbo engine gets up to 29 city / 33 mpg Highway. If you pair the 1.3L Turbo engine with an All-Wheel Drive configuration, then the fuel efficiency dips just slightly to 26 mpg City / 30 mpg Highway.

Warranty

The Chevrolet Trailblazer’s warranty is pretty straightforward as follows:

• Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty
• 3 Years / 36,000 Miles
• Corrosion Limited Warranty
• 3 Years / 36,000 Miles
• Corrosion Limited Warranty Rust-Through
• 6 Years / 100,000 Miles
• Powertrain/Drivetrain Limited Warranty
• 5 Years / 60,000 Miles
  **Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years / 100,000 Miles
• Roadside Assistance Program and Available Courtesy Transportation
• 5 Years / 60,000 Miles
  **Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years / 100,000 Miles

Comparison

When it comes to subcompact crossovers, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer has plenty of competition. However, it stands out with its impressive range of features, comfortable interior, and affordability.

One of its main competitors is the 2021 Hyundai Kona. While the Kona has a slightly lower base price, the base model lacks some of the Trailblazer's advanced safety features, like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist, which come standard on all trims of the Trailblazer. The Trailblazer also offers more cargo space and passenger legroom than the Kona.

Another competitor is the 2021 Kia Seltos, which has a similar starting price to the Trailblazer. However, the Trailblazer offers better fuel economy with its available 1.3L engine. The Trailblazer also has a more upscale interior with more advanced technology features, like a wireless charging pad and standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is another subcompact crossover that competes with the Trailblazer. While the CX-30 has a more powerful base engine, the Trailblazer offers an available 9-speed automatic transmission, which is not an option on the CX-30. The Trailblazer also offers more cargo space than the CX-30 and more advanced safety features, like forward collision alert and lane departure warning.

Overall, while the Trailblazer faces stiff competition in the subcompact crossover market, it stands out with its impressive range of features and affordability.

Trim Specifics

Conclusion

The Trailblazer was brought back to provide a crossover slightly larger than the Chevrolet Trax, yet was able to retain a lower base price. With the incredible blend of comfort, safety, technology, convenience, and capability, the Trailblazer has come back to command the road as a go-to off-road or commuter family vehicle. Additionally, with the rugged ACTIV and sporty RS trims, there is a Trailblazer for everybody! Don’t wait another day to get your next adventure started in your new 2021 Trailblazer!