Chevrolet Trailblazer

Overview

Given that it’s a proper facelift, the majority of changes are restricted to its front end. Gone is the simple looking two-slat grille and in comes a sharper, bigger, and bolder looking replacement. The headlamps have been given a makeover, the projector units make way for simple halogen with daytime running LEDs, which is quite a surprising move. Even the cabin gets a newly designed dashboard with revised centre console, which now looks premium compared to the previous generation model.

When compared with its competitors, the Trailblazer is longer, wider, and taller, giving it a commanding street presence. Also, the 2.8-litre diesel variant of the Trailblazer produces the best power and torque numbers among all its competitors. The SUV is available in four trims – while the 2.5-litre diesel is offered in single variant option with a 6-speed manual, the 2.8-litre diesel is comes in three different trims all featuring a 6-speed automatic transmission - 4x2 LT, 4x2 LTX and 4x4 Z71.

Interior & Features

Apart from the notable transformation on the outside, another worthy change which needs a mention is the reworked dashboard. Gone is the bland and dated looking cabin and in comes a smart and premium looking interior. Apart from the three-spoke steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls, there is nothing which has been shared with the previous iteration of the Trailblazer.

The centre console, as well as vertical AC vents, are all new. The drab looking circular knobs for automatic climate control have made way for a smarter looking air-con unit. Even the 8-inch MyLink infotainment system is new and comes with added functions to enhance smartphone connectivity, including Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The dashboard itself comes with new soft-touch pattern, and the contrast stitching on the new leather upholstery give the quality quotient an uplift. The Trailblazer continues to seat seven passengers with ease and provides the flexibility of folding the second and third row in 16 different configurations.

Exterior

From the outside, the Chevrolet Trailblazer always had that massive street presence which an SUV of its demeanour should command. However, Chevrolet has taken the game one step further by introducing this facelifted version of the Trailblazer. The most noticeable change happens to be to the front grille that now shows a two slat chrome design with Chevrolet’s logo sandwiched between them. The overall design language looks sharper, wider, and bolder than before, thus making the front look smarter. Adding to the sporty appeal is the new black striping design on the front bonnet, which gives the Trailblazer a muscle car persona.

The overall side silhouette of the car remains more or less unchanged. The only subtle change comes in form of new 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, which enhance the already high 253mm ground clearance. Since the car sits on the same platform as before, we expect the Trailblazer to be as rigid and true-blue SUV as before. The only grouse happens to be the absence of any changes in the rear design. The design continues to look as bland as before, and while the tail lamps do get new LED inserts, their small size doesn’t help to complement the sizeable tailgate.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

As before, the Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to have two engine options on offer, both diesel powered. The two mills are dubbed as ‘Duramax’ engines, the smaller one is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder unit, which produces 163 bhp of maximum power and 380 Nm of peak torque. While the bigger one,  2.8-litre four-cylinder engine pumps out 200 bhp of power and 500 Nm of torque.

The 2.5-litre diesel option is available in only one variant with a 6-speed manual gearbox and front wheel drive as standard. The 2.8-litre diesel is paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and features in one trims with four-wheel drive and in other two it pairs to a front wheel drive system. Chevrolet has not revealed the top speed, acceleration, and fuel efficiency figures, since SUVs don’t gel well with these traits. However, expect a fuel efficiency figure of 7.5-8 kmpl for the Trailblazer.

Braking & Safety

Being a flagship SUV, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is expected to pack all the necessary safety functions, and it rightfully does. The Trailblazer comes loaded with front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, Traction Control system, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Control, Brake Assist, and Electronic Stability Control. Apart from these functions, the Trailblazer is blessed with some top-notch active safety systems such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, thus making it one of the safest SUVs to trust upon.