Chevy Trailblazer Used Buying Guide

• Initially starting as an SUV, it later turned into a crossover.
• The Trailblazer comes with 5 trims, with most having access to the more fuel-efficient engine, depending on configuration.
• The 2024 saw a better-equipped interior, coming with a larger infotainment screen.

Initially starting as a trim level for the Blazer, 2002 marks the first year of the Trailblazer as its model. At launch, this model came with LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels, with the SS being introduced in 2006.

The LS being the most basic model came with pretty basic features, but they were still desirable. The first one being dual-zone climate control, helping you, and your passengers stay comfortable. Cruise control, as well as a driver’s information center came standard. Like other vehicles from this era, a single-disc CD player was standard, with a six-disc CD player as an option.

The LT added a power driver’s seat, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The optional features include a Bose six-speaker premium amplified system. Leather trimmed seats, as well as heated front bucket seats were offered as an option.

The LTZ trim added the best features. This came with the same upgraded sound system but added the six-disc in-dash CD changer. It also comes with leather-trimmed seats. For the front row, these seats were heated. Unfortunately, this trim didn’t last long, only being available in 2002 and 2003.

Being that there was a void on the lineup, the SS was introduced. While it was the luxury oriented model that was removed, this one did turn some heads. This brought performance-oriented features. These being unique interior trim, unique polished aluminum-alloy wheels, a unique leather-wrapped steering wheel with an "SS" center emblem. It also brought a new engine, this one being the 6.0L V8. This engine produced 395 horsepower.

Thanks to the SS being more performance oriented, it came with a stiffer suspension, offered in both RWD, and AWD. With less than 2% of total sales being an SS trim, if you find one, it’s something rare. With the rarest one being a 2009, as only 600 units were sold.

Due to the world not being ready for the trailblazer, Chevy decided to put it on the shelf until the time was right.

When 2019 came around, Chevy decided it was time to unveil what it was working on. For the first time in a decade, the Trailblazer was on the main stage, and with it came a new build. It was sold in 2020 as a 2021 model. It was no longer an SUV, now occupying the crossover segment.

Coming in five trims, the L, LS. LT, Activ, and RS. The lineup topping trims were mostly the same to one another, with the RS coming with a sportier exterior, while the Activ comes with a more rugged look.

For the L, LS, and LT active trims, you are equipped with a 1.2L engine, while the RS, and Activ trims as well as some configurations for the LS, and LT come with a 1.3L engine as standard. The most efficient engine is the 1.3L, coming with an EPA estimated 31 combined MPG.

2024 saw some changes to the line, now coming with a more curved design. The interior now comes with a larger 11-inch touchscreen, that is capable of wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

Thanks to the safety efforts from Chevy, the IIHS has given the Trailblazer Top Safety Pick + in the first few years of the new generation.