Introduction
The Chevrolet Trailblazer (previously TrailBlazer) was originally an upscale trim for the 1999 Chevrolet S-10 Blazer LT. The Trailblazer was such a popular standout that Chevy gave this mid-size SUV its own lane and launched the 2002 TrailBlazer four-wheel drive (FWD) model.
Although, at one point, high development costs nearly derailed this off-road pioneer, the Trailblazer still stands tall as a smaller version of the Blazer with a classic SUV style. If you have been shopping for a variety of SUVs, from the full size to the small compact crossover, and you are leaning towards a smaller version of the bigger SUVs you love, then the Chevy Trailblazer is just the right SUV for you. Read on for a guide to shopping for used and pre-owned Chevrolet Trailblazers.
Key Takeaways
- The Trailblazer was first introduced in 1999 as an upscale trim for the Chevy Blazer model lineup and has since developed into a popular crossover model.
- The Chevy Trailblazer was previously named the TrailBlazer.
- After a twelve-year production pause, Chevy brought back the Trailblazer primed for off-roading.
First Generation Chevy TrailBlazer (2002-2009)
The first-generation Chevy Trailblazer was branded as the “TrailBlazer.” These models came with a towing hitch, upgraded leather seats, alloy wheels, and a Bose sound system.
The Chevy TrailBlazer was quick and well-equipped. The 2006 SS trim had a 6.2L V8 engine. By 2009, the Chevy TrailBlazer was replaced with the Chevy Traverse, a full-size crossover SUV.
This Generation Chevy Trailblazer (2021- Present)
This current launch, the Chevy Trailblazer, is part of the second generation introduced in 2021. After twelve long years, Chevrolet brought back the smaller version of the Blazer under the nameplate it holds today. Compared to the TrailBlazer, this crossover SUV is slightly smaller but primed for off-road activities with shock absorbers, all-season tires, and the 1.3L turbocharged engine.
When it relaunched, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer included the Chevy Safety Assist features, such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and more. It had a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and came as FWD, but AWD was an available option.
The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer was refreshed with new headlights and an updated exterior design similar to the Blazer. It features a lush interior with comfortable seats and space for passengers and bags. The large 11.0-inch touchscreen LCD is an upgrade from previous models. The 2025 Chevy Trailblazer is now E85 compatible.
Continuously Upgraded, Never Upstaged
Over the past two decades, the Chevy Trailblazer has come a long way to become a standout five-door subcompact SUV that is rarely upstaged by the competition. Chevrolet has taken great care over the years to upgrade, refresh, and reintroduce the Trailblazer.
Jarrett Automotive Group has the area’s best selection of new, used, and pre-owned vehicles, including Chevy Trailblazer SUVs. Visit today for a world-class buying experience and drive home happy in your dream ride right in time to show off to your relatives (and drive them to fun).