The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer is a beautiful, adventurous, and versatile SUV. Don’t let its subcompact size fool you. You can fit all of your gear in the nooks and crannies, plus it can handle going off-road like a pro. The Trailblazer even satisfies after-school pick-up or weekday commutes. As you can see, the 2023 Trailblazer is a great all-around vehicle, but what does each trim have to offer?
The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer is available in four trims: the LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS. The base LS trim starts at around $22,100, and the high-end ACTIV and RS begin at roughly $26,200, so there isn’t a massive difference in price between each trim. Let’s dive into each trim that’s available and see what they come with so you can better decide whether the base trim has everything you need or if you’ll want to spring for the top-of-the-line model.
The Trailblazer LS
The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer LS is the base trim and offers Chevy Safety Assist standard. This driver assist suite is actually standard in all models of the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer, which is an excellent starting point to have. The Chevy Safety Assist suite consists of a variety of alerts, automatic braking, and steering assists that help you in nearly every road scenario. Many brands will reserve driver-assist features for upper trims only, so Chevy is already one step ahead by having them standard on every trim.
The LS trim also features a six-speaker audio system, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a seven-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Additionally, each 2023 Trailblazer model has the option for all-wheel drive. The standard features in the 2023 Trailblazer LS are impressive, especially the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is another thing most brands exclude from their base models.
As far as available upgrades, there are some, but not as many as higher Trailblazer models. You have the option to add the Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist if you want a few more driver assist features. Aside from that, you do have the option to change up the floor liners if you want something more durable that can handle winter salt and heavy mud.
The base LS model of the 2023 Trailblazer will certainly satisfy some drivers. It offers enough features to keep you happy at the most budget-friendly cost. However, given the close price range, you might want to opt for a step or two above the base trim.
The Trailblazer LT
The next level of the 2023 Trailblazer is the LT trim. This is still a budget-friendly model, but it provides a few more upgrades and standard features than the base LS trim. Most notably, you’ll find LED fog lamps, remote start, silver roof rails, heated front seats, and heated side mirrors in the 2023 Trailblazer LT. You also have keyless entry and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. These might seem like small features, but they make a huge difference in convenience for your everyday drives.
The standard engine in the Trailblazer LT is the 1.2L turbo engine, but the 1.3L turbo engine is available with front-wheel drive, and the all-wheel drive option comes with it standard. With this juiced-up engine, there are three drive modes, including Normal, All-Wheel Drive (or Snow on front-wheel drive models), and available Sport mode. This extra boost really helps the Chevy Trailblazer live up to its name!
When you make the step up to the LT trim, you’ll find a more sleek design and premium features. For example, in the LT trim, you have the option to add a 4.2-inch driver information center and upgrade to the eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. These extra options can make a difference in your overall comfort and convenience, so the LT trim is worth considering even if you’re on a tight budget.
The Trailblazer ACTIV
The ACTIV trim embodies the sporty vibe of the Trailblazer and lets you run wild with adventure. Starting with the design, the Trailblazer ACTIV offers a two-tone exterior color that lets you show off your bold personality on the road. It doesn’t just look the part either; you have the ability to go off-road thanks to sport terrain tires, a more capable suspension, and a front skid plate.
The people who choose the Trailblazer ACTIV trim are those who want to go on weekend adventures and need that extra edge as standard. However, while you may be more focused on adventure, you don’t want to forget about the interior. Inside the 2023 Trailblazer ACTIV is a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, leatherette seats, and available wireless charging. So, inside and out, you get an upgraded experience.
One of the off-roading features Trailblazer ACTIV drivers might find most useful is the enhanced performance on gravel roads. The shocks on the ACTIV trim are tuned to make riding on rough terrain smoother and more comfortable, which is a blessing if you head off the smooth pavement often. Even with its increased capability and larger 1.3L turbo engine, the estimated fuel economy is respectable at 26 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway with all-wheel drive. Bottom line, the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer ACTIV should be your choice if off-roading and unique design are your priorities.
The Trailblazer RS
Sharing the top spot with ACTIV trim is the Trailblazer RS trim, and it has all the bells and whistles. Both the ACTIV trim and the RS trim start at the same MSRP, so their level of features is very similar. The key difference is the ACTIV trim focuses more on off-roading, and the RS trim is geared to the sporty and premium vibe. So, if you love the high-end features of the ACTIV trim but want something more focused on city driving, the RS trim is designed for you.
On the exterior, the Trailblazer RS makes a statement. The 2023 Trailblazer RS design features a blacked-out exterior, mesh grille, and dual exhaust outlets with chrome tips. You also have the option for the two-tone exterior color, but with the RS, the roof can be either Mosaic Black Metallic or Crimson Metallic. The design is brought together with sleek 18-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels.
The interior features in the RS trim are nearly the same as the ACTIV trim. You have options like automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free tailgate. While you may not use the RS trim for the same off-roading adventures as the ACTIV trim, it still carries the same 1.3L turbo engine as standard. Having this extra performance and capability is great for gliding down city streets.
So with all these similarities, how do you choose between the RS and ACTIV? It all comes down to your needs and desires. Both trims have a sporty vibe, but the ACTIV trim delivers more with performance. If you love an SUV with a sleek design and premium features but could care less about the performance level, you’re probably better off with the 2023 Trailblazer RS.
Which Trailblazer Trim Is the Best?
The different Trailblazer trims each have something unique to offer. Think about your daily responsibilities, personality, wish list, and budget. This will help you understand and cross off trim levels to find the right one for you. Typically, drivers are happier going at least a step above the base trim level because there are more options and better finishes for just a few thousand more. However, the 2023 Trailblazer doesn’t disappoint with its base LS trim.
No matter what you select, the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer is an excellent subcompact SUV. It works well for many lifestyles, from families to adventurers, and comes with the foundational quality of a Chevy vehicle. Once you start driving around in the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer, you won’t be disappointed!
