Did you know that crossovers went from 4% of automobile sales in 2000 to nearly 40% in 2018? Competition is steep in the crossover market as more drivers discover the versatility that crossovers offer, from their practicality and affordability to their efficiency and spaciousness. This is exactly what inspired Chevy to up the ante with the reintroduction of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer to the Chevy lineup.
If you’re a longtime Chevy fan, then you know that the Trailblazer name isn’t new to the Chevy brand. First offered as a top-tier trim on the Chevy Blazer in 1999, the Trailblazer was given its own model in 2002 and became an instant bestseller for Chevy. Over the next seven years, the Trailblazer saw several upgrades, from its powertrain to its technology and safety features. However, these updates weren’t enough for the truck-based SUV to thrive as the demand for crossovers reached new highs.
In 2007 the Trailblazer was retired and replaced by the Chevy Traverse crossover, but Chevy didn’t put the Trailblazer to bed for good. With Chevy’s ingenuity and a modern twist, the Trailblazer returned to American roads in 2021 as one of the most affordable, stylish, safe, and functional SUVs available. So, what features are notable in the all-new model? We thought you’d never ask!
#1 – It’s Loaded with Character
Sized between the Trax and the Equinox, the Trailblazer is loaded with character. The exterior gives a nod to the early Blazer with its dual-port grille that adds dimension, while the accent bar with the integrated headlamps enhances the SUV’s wider stance. The Trailblazer ACTIV takes these features to the next level with a larger and more rugged front grille, while the performance-inspired Trailblazer RS features a mesh front grille and unique accents like a black Chevy bowtie to give the Trailblazer a sporty look. The available two-tone color schemes also help these top trims stand out from the others in the lineup.
#2 – Its Interior Is All About You
Chevy set out to design the Trailblazer to give you everything you need within reach. You’ll feel in complete control the moment you get behind the wheel, thanks to the Trailblazer’s dual-cockpit design with an integrated center stack that boasts the latest infotainment system and connectivity tools. The Trailblazer’s convenience and comfort features vary by trim, but one thing remains consistent across the lineup – the SUV’s ample storage space. From the center console that offers 3.5 liters of open storage to 4.4 liters of storage under the armrest, you can easily keep the Trailblazer free of clutter since Chevy gives you a place for everything!
#3 – It’s a Great Value
One of the best features you’ll find in the Trailblazer lineup is that there’s a model for everyone. The L trim starts the lineup at $19,000 and includes a rich suite of features that add value to the model, starting with the 7-inch color touchscreen display equipped with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system as well as Bluetooth capability, voice command, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The model also offers safety and driver-assist tools like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, and lane keep assist with lane departure warning.
Stepping up to the LS trim adds a six-speaker audio system and a digital compass in the Driver Information Center, as well as a flat-folding front passenger seat to maximize the interior for hauling a variety of cargo. The LT trim adds LED fog lamps to enhance visibility as well as silver roof rails and heated, power-adjustable body-color mirrors. The LT is also equipped with remote start, making starting your vehicle and bringing the cabin to the perfect temperature as easy as clicking a button.
#4 – It’s ACTIV and RS Trims Don’t Disappoint
Chevy attracts a new audience of drivers with the Trailblazer thanks to trims like the ACTIV and RS. Both models are equipped with the more powerful 1.3-liter turbo engine under the hood, a 9-speed automatic transmission, LED taillamps, and two-tone roofs. The ACTIV boasts a rugged front grille, Hankook Sport Terrain 17-inch tires, and ACTIV dampers that enhance the SUV’s performance and deliver a smooth ride on harsh terrain. The RS sits on larger, 18-inch wheels and replaces the trapezoidal polished tips on the ACTIV’s dual-outlet exhaust with round polished tips to reflect its sportier appearance.
#5 – It’s Plenty Capable
Chevy gives you a choice between two ECOTEC engines – a 1.2-liter that comes standard on the base models or the 1.3-liter that you’ll find under the hood of the higher trims. The 1.2-liter engine features stop-start technology and is paired with a continuously variable transmission. Together, this maximizes the Trailblazer’s efficiency without sacrificing capability, with the SUV delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. You can also boost this capability by opting for the selectable all-wheel drive, which allows you to activate the system as needed.
#6 – It Delivers a Customizable Driving Experience
Remember when we said that you’ll feel in control the moment you get behind the wheel of the Trailblazer? You’ll enjoy a new level of control when you’re navigating the road, thanks to the drive modes that are available on the front-wheel-drive models. You can select between Normal, Snow, and Sport mode depending on your needs. Normal mode is ideal for your daily commute and optimizes both efficiency and comfort, while Snow mode makes the throttle more responsive to improve handling and acceleration in winter conditions. Sport mode is all about performance and gives the Trailblazer a quicker response and sportier handling by adjusting the steering and shifting pattern.
#7 – It’s Packed with Technology
The Trailblazer has no shortage of technology, and that means you’ll stay connected wherever the road takes you. This technology is centralized in the center touchscreen display that supports the Chevy Infotainment 3 system along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The vehicle also includes SiriusXM satellite radio and the capability to pair two Bluetooth-capable phones, which means the driver and another passenger can connect their smartphones to the vehicle and enjoy the same hands-free features.
#8 – It’s Incredibly Safe
Chevy’s reputation for building safe and reliable vehicles continues with the 2021 Trailblazer. Every Trailblazer in the lineup is equipped with a standard suite of safety and driver-assist tools to give you confidence when you’re behind the wheel. These features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, IntelliBeam headlamps, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, OnStar, a rear vision camera, a rear-seat reminder, and Chevy’s exclusive Teen Driver technology.
You can add several enhanced features to the suite, including adaptive cruise control that takes the guesswork out of navigating a busy highway at cruising speeds. Other optional features include an HD rear vision camera, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, rear park assist, and rear cross traffic alert, all of which are designed to minimize the potential for collision by maximizing your awareness.
It’s Time to Blaze a New Trail
What are your favorite features of the all-new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer? Do you love that it offers loads of character and a driver-focused cockpit? Are you sold on its outstanding suite of safety and connectivity features? Or do trims like the ACTIV and RS catch your eye?
Regardless of what feature stands out the most to you, nothing compares to seeing the Trailblazer in person. When you’re behind the wheel, you can see and feel the Chevy difference from the Trailblazer’s intuitive technology and interior design to how it handles navigating a city street or cruising the highway. From there, the decision is yours whether the 2021 Trailblazer is the right SUV for you as you set off on your next adventure.
