The all-new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is the latest addition to Chevrolet’s lineup of crossover SUVs. Trailblazer slots between two clearly defined vehicles and segments.
It’s smaller than the compact Equinox. But it’s bigger than subcompact Trax. And it’s sportier than either of those two vehicles. Because it takes its styling cues from Chevy’s Camaro.
The all-new Trailblazer seats five. And, it’s returning to the Chevy lineup after previously being a larger crossover option.
2021 Chevy Trailblazer Top-3:
- Styling
- Safety tech
- Maneuverability
Slots between Trax & Equinox
Trim Options And Prices
And Chevy is targeting more youthful buyers with Trailblazer. But it offers trim configuration options for all.
- L starting MSRP $19,000
- LS $21,500
- LT $23,600
- ACTIV $25,400
- RS $25,400
Notice the ACTIV and the RS have the same starting MSRP. That’s because they have similar options. But the ACTIV is ready for light off-roading. Whereas the RS is intended for on-road activity.
I provide manufacturers’ suggested retail pricing for reference only.
Engines, Transmissions & MPG
Trailblazer offers two different engine options. And, interestingly, both are 3-cylinders. That’s right, 1, 2, 3-cylinders.
3-Cylinder Engines
Both engines are turbocharged. And, for the vehicle’s size and weight they are well matched.
The two optional 3-cylinders are 1.2-liter or a 1.3L. They deliver up to 155-horsepower and up to 174 pound-feet of torque.
3-cylinder turbo
CVT Standard And Front Or All-Wheel Drive
A continuously variable transmission is standard with the 2021 Trailblazer. But when you go with the bigger, 1.3-liter, and all-wheel drive you can bump up to a 9-speed automatic trans.
You have the option of two or all-wheel drive. And for the 2-wheel option, the power is in the front wheels.
Drive Modes
Depending on the 2WD or AWD the drive modes vary slightly.
- 2WD/FWD – Normal/Snow/Sport
- AWD – Normal/AWD/Sport
Fuel Economy
And fuel economy varies a bit depending on your engine and transmission configuration.
It’s estimated to be a low of 26 mpg and up to 33 mpg. So with Trailblazer, you have a fuel-efficient vehicle that’s in line with the rest of its class competitors.
2021 Chevy Trailblazer Is Very Good Looking
Trailblazer is a great-looking crossover SUV from every angle. Especially with the trims that include the different colored roofs. Like the RS you see pictured throughout this article.
And these sharp styling cues appear to be popping up in more of Chevy’s lineup. Chevy created the all-new 2021 Trailblazer for younger drivers. But my bet is that it attracts even more buyers. Because it is youthful and sporty. But without being overdone. And still delivers a feeling of class and respectability.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Interior
The interior of the ’21 Chevy Trailblazer RS I test drove was sporty yet stylish. With plenty of space for both people and stuff.
Sporty interior accents
For example, the flat-bottom steering wheel. And the red accent stitching. Plus, it’s spacious inside. And surfaces are quality to the touch.
39.4″ legroom
Being 5’10” I like a bit of legroom. And even with the driver seat adjusted for me, crawling into the backseat is easy. Additionally, an hour-long crosstown trip is a cinch for up to four adults.
Up to 54.4 cu-ft cargo space
And there’s plenty of cargo space. For example, with the backseats up there are 25.3 cubic feet are room for stuff.
Plus, folding the backseats down gives you 54.4 cu-ft of cargo space.
- Headroom: 40.0/38.4
- Legroom: 40.9/39.4
- Shoulder room: 55.4/53.8
- Hip room: 52.3/45.7
*Inches – front/2nd-row
2021 Chevy Trailblazer RS Infotainment Technology
Additionally, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available with Trailblazer. Also available is wireless phone charging.
An available 7 and 8″ touchscreen keeps everything super-user friendly. And 4G LTE hotspot capability keeps you connected.
2021 Chevy Trailblazer Driver Assist Safety Tech
So, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer includes a slew of standard safety technology. And what’s not standard is available.
Standard:
- Lane keep assist w/ lane departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Following distance indicator
- Front pedestrian braking
- Forward collision alert
- Automatic high beam
- Rear seat reminder
- Rear vision camera
Available:
- Lane change alert w/ blind spot alert
- Onstar safety security coverage
- Adaptive cruise control
- HD rear vision camera
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Rear park assist
Also, Chevy offers its Teen Driver feature. And parents love that because it allows them to track behavior behind the wheel. So, knowing about that reporting feature alone can deter teens from goofing off while driving. Plus it can give Moms and Dads valuable info to share with the younger generation.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Top-3:
- Styling: Trailblazer is probably the best-looking crossover in its class. Especially with the RS package accents.
- Safety tech: Generous list of driver assistance and safety features make Trailblazer an appealing option.
- Maneuverability: It’s a nimble smaller crossover. Great for urban environs and tight parking spaces.
