How Has the Chevy Trailblazer Evolved in the Last Few Years?

When you shop for a new Chevy Trailblazer for sale today, you’ll see that this subcompact SUV looks stylish and modern and comes standard with a great array of cutting-edge infotainment features. But, of course, it wasn’t always this way. The Trailblazer as we know it today has been around since the 2021 model year and has gotten many upgrades in the years since then. These changes have ranged from new exterior paint colors to new interior features and have affected all of the Trailblazer’s trim levels, from the affordable LS to the sporty RS and redesigned ACTIV. Today, we’re going to take a look at how this SUV has evolved in recent years, becoming the versatile value vehicle it is today.

The First Uses of the Trailblazer Nameplate

Before looking at more recent history, let’s take a quick step back to the origins of the Trailblazer nameplate. The name was first used for a top-tier trim level of the 1999 Chevy Blazer, offering extra comfort and convenience features throughout the interior. For the 2002 model year, it became a distinct model for the first time. This version of the Trailblazer, a midsize SUV with plenty of interior space and a powerful engine under the hood, was produced through the 2009 model year. For the decade between 2010 and 2020, the Trailblazer name went dormant.

The All-New 2021 Chevy Trailblazer

The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is a completely new model, not a variation on the former Trailblazer. This generation is something of a mix between a hatchback and an SUV, with a subcompact body that’s easy to maneuver in the tightest of spaces and the extra height and capability that an SUV design brings to the table. Its small size makes it highly affordable, so this Trailblazer is a great choice for a driver on a budget looking for a quality and capable vehicle that won’t break the bank.

On top of a low sticker price, the 2021 Trailblazer also offers solid fuel economy. While the outgoing 2009 Trailblazer is rated at a mere 16 MPG combined fuel efficiency rating, the 2021 Trailblazer is rated at a much better 31 MPG combined with the efficient 1.3L turbocharged engine and front-wheel drive. AWD is also available, giving you extra traction to conquer wet roads and other tricky surfaces and only dropping fuel economy to 28 MPG combined, which is much improved for modern drivers.

The 1.3L turbo engine isn’t just the most efficient option; it’s also the most powerful. The base powertrain on the Trailblazer, only available with FWD, pairs a 1.2L turbo engine with a continuously variable transmission. This configuration produces 137 hp, up to 162 lb-ft of torque, and gets an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined. The 1.3L engine produces 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque for better acceleration and handling. It also pairs with the CVT transmission if you opt for FWD, but get upgraded to a 9-speed automatic transmission on AWD models.

The 2021 Trailblazer features a standard 7-inch touchscreen and is available with a larger 8-inch option. The infotainment system features available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, HD radio, and Bluetooth compatibility for up to two devices. Driver assistance features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, and IntelliBeam headlamps come standard across the trim lineup.

The 2021 Trailblazer debuted with five different trim levels for drivers to choose from. The base L was affordable and stylish, but it lacked some of the higher trims’ comfort and convenience features. It was only available with FWD. Upgrading to LS gets you more speakers, bigger wheels, and the option to get AWD. The next step up to LT adds a distinct silver-plated front fascia on the exterior and interior features like a power-adjustable driver’s seat, push-button start, and cruise control. The top-tier ACTIV and RS had the same starting price, differentiated by their style and niche rather than quality. The ACTIV is a sporty option that adds a dual exhaust, available two-tone roof, and shocks designed to make for a more comfortable ride over gravel. The RS has exclusive black exterior accents, including black bow-tie badges and a unique mesh grille that sets it apart from the rest of the Trailblazer’s trims.

The 2022 Trailblazer: More Colors & Features

Even though the model had only recently made its debut, it did get several upgrades for the 2022 model year. The trim lineup was simplified to four options: the LS, the LT, the ACTIV, and the RS, as the base L was dropped. A heated steering wheel was added to the top two trims as a standard feature and an available option for the LT. Other features that are available this model year include roof rails and trailering provisions. These give drivers new ways to transport cargo, freeing up interior space for passenger comfort. Four bright new exterior paint colors were made available, too: Vivid Orange Metallic, Blue Glow Metallic, Crimson Metallic, and Mahogany Red Metallic. The Trailblazer already had a stylish exterior, and these new colors gave drivers more ways to make it their own.

The 2023 Trailblazer: Even More Styling Options

Changes were minimal for the 2023 model year. Once again, new exterior color options were available: Sterling Gray, Fountain Blue, and the eye-catching Nitro Yellow Metallic. A new roof color also entered the scene, allowing you to contrast these hues and more against a dazzling Iridescent Pearl Tricoat.

The 2024 Trailblazer: Refreshed Front Face & Major Infotainment Upgrade

For the 2024 model year, the Trailblazer has a new look, with a more modern front fascia, sleek lighting, and unique grille designs for each of the trims. Each trim also gets a distinct wheel design, giving the lineup plenty of visual variety. Mix things up further with two new exterior colors: timeless Copper Harbor Metallic and fun Cacti Green. Inside, you’ll find a fully upgraded infotainment system. The smaller touchscreens have been retired and replaced by a standard 11-inch display that makes it easy to change settings accurately and see camera views clearly. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while wireless phone charging is available for the LT, ACTIV, and RS trims. Behind the wheel, a new 8-inch reconfigurable Driver Information Center puts important information directly in front of you, and you can customize your display to your preference to drive safely wherever you go.

The Trailblazer Is Always Moving Forward

While the new Chevy Trailblazer has only been around for a few model years, it’s already made significant changes since its debut. The exterior style, interior features, and infotainment systems have all been modernized as the vehicle blazes forward year after year. The 2024 model is the best yet, retaining what made the 2021 Trailblazer great while adding new touches and upgrading older tech. In future years, we predict that the Trailblazer will continue to improve and impress drivers with its distinct style, spacious interior, easy maneuverability, and affordable price. We’re proud to make this model available to drivers here at Parkway Chevrolet. Visit us today to learn more and find your perfect model.