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A red 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is parked on a cobble city street.

Waiting for the Trailblazer’s North American Return

The much anticipated 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is drumming up lots of excitement and speculation from tried and true American Chevy fans. While there’s still some mystery surrounding the details of this iconic vehicle’s return, there are a few key features SUV shoppers have come to expect. This modern reintroduction of an old favorite is slowly offering glimpses into what’s in store, including a standard two-tone roof that provides a signature exterior. The interior of this 2021 crossover SUV is sure to boast of all the newest safety features and technology that Chevy has to offer. We won’t know anything for sure until it’s early 2020 release, but here are a few tidbits so far about this SUV, coming soon to Chevy dealerships.

Size and Power

Slotted between the smaller Trax and larger Equinox, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is a compact crossover SUV that’s generally on the smaller side. Seating will be available for five but might be more comfortable with just four people when embarking on a long trip. The 2021 Trailblazer is essentially a mini version of the larger Blazer which it was originally modeled after. The new Trailblazer is set to strike a fine balance of size and power, ideal for the modern driver.

Because of its smaller stature, legroom and cargo volume are moderate and not as extensive as with a truly large vehicle. On-road driveability, along with everyday comfort, are big focuses for this body-on-frame SUV. As a result, off-road capability may not be as much of a priority for this popular vehicle. For the average driver, this is completely appropriate and acceptable. The 2021 Trailblazer is meant more to bring passengers around town rather than through rugged terrain.

The engine is expected to be similar to other SUVs in its class, but no information has been released on whether a hybrid engine will be available or not. Front-wheel drive will likely be provided in standard models, with the option to switch to all-wheel drive if desired. The new Trailblazer is often compared to the new Buick Encore GX and will likely run on the same platform with a similar engine. According to the experts at Car and Driver, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission will be the singular option to choose from on the 2021 Trailblazer. More optimistic speculators suggest three possible engine options. A 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with a max output of 170 horsepower is described as a starting point. If drivers prefer an upgrade, they may be able to choose a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet torque. Perhaps a 1.4-liter engine 140 horsepower could also be included (similar to the Chevy Trax), but no specifics have been revealed to the public just yet. Expectations are very mixed, with some analysts anticipating the smaller engine as a definite possibility and others ruling it out completely. Only time will tell as Chevy provides the final specs for Trailblazer fans to check out.

Chevy Technology Features

Although the name “Trailblazer” evokes memories of an automobile from the past, the new version is sure to be a slightly different animal. Technology has progressed at such a rapid rate since the United States last had new Trailblazers in stock. Chevy has kept up with the expectations of tech-savvy car shoppers and won’t disappoint with the Trailblazer’s latest release. Its modern dashboard will likely include a center touchscreen, with GPS and personal device connectivity through Chevy’s latest infotainment software. Adaptive Cruise Control is on the list of expected features, along with a mirror-based rearview camera. Automatic Emergency Braking and Active Lane Control are also anticipated in the 2021 standard package, enhancing safety and desirability among new-car shoppers.

The black interior of a 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is shown.

Style and Design

The new Trailblazer will have a boxy look very similar to the larger Chevy Blazer. A large grille will reach broadly and continue into a strong line down the body on both sides. The stylish front-end will be inspired by the Chevy Camaro. A sharper beak and kicked-up rear-end are likely to provide a refined design on this classic SUV. Thin headlights and a sporty RS trim are sure to be popular among SUV enthusiasts. Big wheels and black body cladding will give the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer a unique and defined style that will help attract buyers in a market flooded with SUV options.

Based on information gathered from the current Chevy Blazer, it’s not unlikely to assume that the 2021 Trailblazer will be available in an array of exterior paint colors including Graphite Metallic, Black, Nightfall Grey Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Red Hot, Sunlit Bronze Metallic, Oakwood Metallic, Kinetic Blue Metallic, and Cajun Red Tintcoat. While Chevy may choose to include some new colors in the latest line-up, it’s not likely. Chevy prides itself on traditional values and simple design. Conventional, classic colors are part of their brand appeal and timeless aesthetic.

A modern but classic interior is expected to include all of Chevy’s latest tech features and conveniences. Higher-end models will probably offer upgrades on upholstery, seat temperature adjustments and trim. To maintain a quiet ride, Chevy will likely make efforts for noise-canceling windows and doors that provide a serene drive previously exclusive to luxury vehicles. Using phrases like “understated is overrated,” it’s clear that newer Chevys intend to remain classic while still raising the bar and igniting some spark into this historic automotive empire.

Anticipated Pricing and Competition

There’s no official word from General Motors on how much the 2021 Trailblazer will sell for, but affordability has always been a priority for this homegrown American brand. Speculators at Car and Driver anticipate a price point starting at $22,000 with a $30,000 max. Certainly, multiple models will present options for thriftier and more extravagant buyers. Nonetheless, the 2021 Trailblazer should be a solid option for the average driver looking to own or lease a quality SUV without breaking the bank.

Chevy and Buick will be competing for the sales of similar vehicles in 2021, potentially driving deals for consumers on either side. Competition will also include other compact crossovers, such as the Kia Sportage, Nissan Rogue, Toyota Rav4, Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-30. With SUV popularity remaining high, there is no shortage of comparable options to help keep buyers in the driver’s seat of pricing.

The Mystery of the Details

There is a lot that we still don’t know when it comes to the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer. All will be revealed soon enough, as the vehicle is scheduled to be released officially in early 2020. Chevy stated that they plan to provide more details on the powertrain and additional specs as the release date approaches, so keep your eyes and ears to the ground for the latest updates.

Competition in the auto industry is steep, and no one wants their vehicle to be copied or leaked prior to the manufacturer’s scheduled date. If you want to hear it first, directly from the source, you can sign up for updates on Chevy’s website to get the latest info on the 2021 Trailblazer before it makes its way to the dealership.