2021 Chevy Trailblazer USA: What we know so far
2021 Chevy Trailblazer USA Chevy revives the Trailblazer license plate with a brand new small crossover that has a sporty look and is loaded with technology. The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer slots between the Chevy Trax subcompact and the mid-size Chevy Blazer, which inspire the small model’s taut body.
The Trailblazer shares many components with the all-new and same-sized Buick Encore GX, including the transmission and available engines. The Trailblazer 2021 will arrive in showrooms in spring 2020.
The Chevy Trailblazer is brand new for 2021, back on the market after Chevy ended production of the crossover in 2009.
2021 Chevy Trailblazer USA Engine, Transmission, and Performance
As with the Buick Encore GX, the Trailblazer offers two different turbocharged engines, a 1.2-liter, and a 1.3-liter engine. The first produces the same 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque and the second generates 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft.
The 1.2-liter engine comes only with front-wheel drive and is equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while the 1.3-liter offers an optional all-wheel-drive and comes exclusively with a nine-speed automatic.
We won’t be able to fully evaluate the Trailblazer until we get our hands on one, but if the Trax is any indication, the Pioneer’s performance will be disappointing.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
There are no energy efficiency figures for the Trailblazer, but Buick claims a 31 mpg handset on the Encore GX, so a similar number could be seen here as they share engines.
2021 Chevy Trailblazer USA Interior
The Trailblazer is a little more spacious than the Trax but smaller than the Blazer. Chevy boasts a total cargo capacity of 54 cubic feet with second-row seats of 60/40 fraction folded, six cubic feet more than the Trax and 10 cubic feet less than the Blazer. We found the large Trax to be spacious and comfortable for front passengers but was outperformed by competitors such as Honda HR-Vin cargo space. The Comfort of the Trailblazer may differ from trim level to trim, as differences in the Activ trim include unique tires and suspension settings.
The Trailblazer will be equipped with Chevy’s newest infotainment system, which will allow you to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. It will be available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as Sirius XM satellite radio. Chevy hasn’t disclosed more information about the infotainment system, but the Trax comes with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot available, so that would be a possibility here, too.
Read next: 2021 Chevy Trailblazer MSRP, Full Price Announced
Since the Trailblazer was not published, no tests have been conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include lane maintenance assistance and lane departure warning, as well as pedestrian front braking. The Trailblazer also offers adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard track maintenance assistance and lane exit warning
Adaptive cruise control available
The Blazer and Trax both have the same warranty coverage, so it would be a surprise if the Trailblazer were different. For both vehicles, Chevrolet includes the first maintenance visit scheduled as free, which is unusual among competitors.
The limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
Free maintenance is covered for the first visit
2021 Chevy Trailblazer USA Price
The Trailblazer 2021 starts at less than $20,000, making it cheaper than the Trax. Each model has a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With the exception of the basic L model, each Trailblazer can be had with the all-wheel drive and the more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While the Activ and RS models have a distinctly robust and sporty style, respectively, we think the LT finish level is the best value for money. We also recommend opting for the larger all-wheel drive engine for an extra $2,000.
L: $19,995
LS: $22,495
LT: $24,595
Activ: $26,395
RS: $26,395