Unexpected car rental upgrades can sometimes lead to surprising discoveries. Recently finding myself in need of a rental car with trunk space, I was offered a 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD as an alternative when my initially requested category was unavailable. This wasn’t the Trailblazer of previous generations; it was noticeably smaller and featured All-Wheel Drive (AWD), piquing my curiosity about this modern iteration.
My initial assumption leaned towards a Chevy 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 engine under the hood, recalling the older Trailblazers with their robust 4.1L Inline-6 engines. However, a quick peek under the hood revealed a more contemporary 1.3L Turbo 3-cylinder engine. This downsizing reflects a growing trend, particularly in Europe, where three-cylinder engines are becoming increasingly common even in compact SUVs and CUVs, often prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality.
First impressions suggested a vehicle designed for sensible driving and user-friendly operation, and this proved accurate. The seats offered adequate support and comfort, enhanced by subtle stitching details. While the interior materials weren’t premium, they felt durable, reminiscent of the fabric used in the Malibu. In fact, the transition from a Malibu to the Trailblazer felt seamless, with a similar cabin width, gauge layout, urethane steering wheel, and familiar controls. However, the Trailblazer presented some improvements. The integrated touchscreen in the dash, positioned below the central air vents, ensured effective air conditioning distribution. The device cubby below was flatter and more spacious, and the linear arrangement of outlets and switches enhanced usability. Furthermore, the elevated seating position provided improved visibility, and the shifter and console height felt ergonomically optimized.
The exterior styling showcased a tasteful design with well-defined character lines. The front fascia, with its distinctive lighting configuration, stood out as a strong design element. Even the rear taillamps, wrapping around the corners, contributed to the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.
Delving into the mechanical aspects, information from online sources and the owner’s manual confirmed the presence of a geared transmission. Specifically, the AWD Chevy Trailblazer utilizes a 9-speed automatic transmission, while the 2WD models are equipped with a CVT.
The Chevy Trailblazer Awd presents itself as a highly utilitarian and practical vehicle, prioritizing function over outright refinement. The engine, while not coarse, emits a constant, rhythmic hum that becomes more pronounced under acceleration. With approximately 140 horsepower, it’s not designed for aggressive driving maneuvers like rapid passing or hill climbs, despite the turbocharger. It’s a capable engine for everyday driving needs, but not a performance powerhouse.
The 9-speed automatic transmission is noteworthy for its distinct operation. It’s audibly present during gear changes, quickly cycling through the gears, yet the shifts themselves are remarkably smooth, almost CVT-like in their seamlessness during gentle acceleration. However, more assertive throttle input reveals noticeable gear changes, and in stop-and-go traffic at lower speeds, the transmission can exhibit some gear hunting within the lower ratios, occasionally resulting in jerky transitions. In consistent, linear driving, the shifts become nearly imperceptible, though the rapid gear changes and associated sounds might be considered somewhat quirky.
The Trailblazer demonstrates commendable nimbleness on the road. The ride quality is generally smooth but can become unsettled on uneven surfaces. While it surpasses the budget-oriented ride of Chevrolets like the Spark and Sonic, it doesn’t quite reach the composed ride quality of the Malibu or the later generation Cruze. Wind noise is reasonably controlled, but road and suspension noises are less effectively isolated, constantly reminding occupants of the road surface beneath. In the CUV/SUV category, comparisons to larger vehicles like the Chevy Traverse, with its 3.6L V6, highlight the Trailblazer’s positioning in a different segment, prioritizing compactness and efficiency.
The higher seating position contributes to good forward and side visibility. However, the thick rear pillars do create some challenges for angled rear visibility, a common characteristic in vehicles of this type. The test vehicle lacked parking sensors or side traffic alerts, features that would be particularly beneficial given the rear visibility limitations, especially for drivers accustomed to relying on a combination of mirrors and over-the-shoulder checks during lane changes.
With the rear seats in place, the Trailblazer offers ample storage space, thanks to its boxy design. Folding the split rear seats forward significantly expands the cargo area, making it well-suited for transporting boxes or larger items. A slot for a rear cargo cover was present, but the cover itself was missing in this rental vehicle, a common issue with rental SUVs and CUVs. While the rear windows are tinted, personal belongings might still be visible, prompting rental agencies to offer insurance for personal effects. However, replacing personal items while traveling can be inconvenient and time-consuming. Private owners are more likely to ensure the retractable cargo cover is in place for added security and privacy.
Inside, while the controls are logically arranged, the absence of a remote hatch release or fuel filler release is noticeable. However, the fuel door does lock in conjunction with the vehicle’s central locking system. Fuel consumption is variable and sensitive to driving style, with the instant fuel mileage display providing real-time feedback. Even with the drivetrain set to 2WD and “eco” mode, the Trailblazer still carries the weight and drag of the AWD system. Fuel economy ranges from less impressive in city driving to quite respectable on steady highway cruises. The 9-speed automatic transmission allows for efficient highway cruising, maintaining approximately 1,900 rpm at 65 mph, contributing to improved fuel economy, albeit achieved with a smaller 3-cylinder engine.
Transitioning to the Trailblazer from other Chevrolet models, particularly the Malibu, is straightforward. Considering the similarities and differences, the Chevy Trailblazer AWD can be viewed as a higher-riding, less refined, 3-cylinder CUV/SUV version of the Malibu. For buyers seeking the practical packaging and price point this vehicle offers, the Chevy Trailblazer AWD presents a compelling option in the competitive compact SUV market.
