It’s probably tough to be an automobile manufacturer right now. Not only do you have to deal with the constantly changing appetite of consumers, but fuel is expensive and getting the chips and conductors needed to make a vehicle’s computerized parts work is still a hassle. Thankfully, manufacturers like Chevrolet know how to get the job done in the best way possible. As a result, we have vehicles like the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer to look forward to.
Early reports indicate that the 2023 Trailblazer won’t be very much different from the 2022 version, but drivers can expect a solid, safe, reliable, and enjoyable subcompact SUV. Furthermore, as a Chevy vehicle, the Trailblazer is offered with loads of choices that allow drivers to customize their experience behind the wheel. As one of the most beloved SUVs on the market today, the Trailblazer intends to continue its path of excellence, taking the bar up a few notches to acknowledge the new model year without dropping any of the amazing features and options that have helped it earn its stellar reputation.
Based on early press releases from Chevy and expert insider information, 2023 will be the best year for the Trailblazer yet. Let’s take a look at what drivers can expect.
What Is the Chevy Trailblazer?
The Chevy Trailblazer is no stranger to uncertainty. The first vehicle to use the TrailBlazer moniker was an upscale trim level of the Chevy S-10 Blazer. Then, in 2002, the Trailblazer became a standalone vehicle. It was briefly discontinued in 2009, then revived in 2012. The most current generation of Trailblazer hit the roads in 2020, with a complete redesign and a new suite of safety, technology, comfort, and convenience features.
Also, to clear up the confusion: the answer to whether the “b” should or should not be capitalized is “yes.” When referring to the pre-2002 Blazer trim, “TrailBlazer” is textbook correct. The 2002-2009 model also proudly displayed a capitalized B. Therefore, while Chevy does not capitalize the “b” in US markets on the current generation of Trailblazer, it’s not entirely incorrect to refer to it by that name.
Regardless of what you name your particular model, the 2023 Trailblazer promises to be a highly functional and driveable vehicle. Front wheel drive is standard, though all wheel drive is available on all models. Maximum ground clearance is 8”, though, so be cautious when taking your SUV on the actual trails.
One area in which the Trailblazer continues to astound in the new model year is its ability to carry stuff. With all seats occupied, the two-tier cargo area provides up to 25.3 cu.ft. of space. However, the 60/40 split-folding rear seat allows that space to grow, and the fold-flat front seat can be stashed to provide a maximum of 54.4 cu.ft. of cargo space—with the ability to stash objects up to 8.5’ long.
To look at it from another perspective, this means the Trailblazer can carry adult passengers just as adeptly, with plenty of leg and shoulder room all the way around. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle that helps you feel confident taking the kids to school or the crew to the campsite, Chevy has your driving interests in mind with the Trailblazer.
Power and Performance in the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer
The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer manages to hit a very sweet spot when it comes to power and performance. The two engine options provide plenty of power to get you across town, along the highway, and any other place you might choose to visit in your regular wanderings. Additionally, the Trailblazer is engineered to respect your fuel budget.
The standard engine in the 2023 LS and LT trims continues to be a respectable 1.2-L turbocharged inline-3 that provides 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The ACTIV and RS trims come equipped with a 1.5-L turbocharged inline-3 that dials things up a bit with 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque.
All 2023 Trailblazers include an automatic transmission. Those with front wheel drive have a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all wheel drive models include a 9-speed transmission. Selectable drive modes include Normal for everyday driving, Sport for increased response in acceleration and steering, and Snow. All wheel drive models somewhat predictably have an AWD drive mode, as well.
When it comes to fuel consumption, the Trailblazer holds its own in its class. While we’ve come to think of SUVs as gas-guzzling behemoths, this Chevy SUV offers plenty of room with a modest fuel economy. Driving models equipped with the 1.2-L engine will yield 29 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The 1.3-L engine provides 29 MPG on the city streets and 33 MPG while cruising the highways when front wheel drive is selected. Choosing an all wheel drive model changes those numbers to 26 and 30, respectively.
Choosing Your 2023 Chevy Trailblazer
The Chevy Trailblazer will continue to be offered in four trims for the 2023 model year: LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS.
The list of standard offerings across the lineup is both refreshing and impressive. Each 2023 Chevy Trailblazer comes equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite of safety and driver assistance features. This includes Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Following Distance Indicator, as well as Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning and IntelliBeam automatic high beams. A Rear Vision Camera is standard on all Trailblazers as well, though higher trims swap an HD version in.
Chevy’s Infotainment system is on board all Trailblazers, too, with a 7” diagonal color touchscreen on the LS and LT trims, and an 8” version offered on the higher trims. This system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and can include a Wi-Fi hotspot, built-in Amazon Alexa, and wireless phone charging, depending on the trim and packages selected.
In addition, Chevy has noted that the RS trim will feature a svelte blacked-out exterior with pops of chrome. The ACTIV trim will continue to be the adventurous sibling in the pack, with a specialized suspension that allows it to travel boldly over the roads less taken. It is also likely that Chevy will continue to offer a series of optional packages that will allow drivers to take their Trailblazer to the next level with customization.
In a world where uncertainty has become the norm, drivers can rest assured that the 2023 Chevy Trailblazer will continue to meet and exceed all expectations when it comes to sheer drivability. Continuing in the bold tradition set by the 2020 redesign, the new Trailblazer builds on the features drivers want and need, like a peppy, responsive engine, modest fuel consumption, and plenty of helpful standard features.
Wherever the road may take you, the Trailblazer continues to be an ideal choice for drivers who want the space and convenience of an SUV without trying to figure out how to park a larger vehicle in an urban parking garage. It has the power to make driving fun, too, allowing drivers to break from their regular route and see the world from a different angle—wherever that might be!
