2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD Activ Review and Off-Road Test

Summary

In this episode, Driving Sports TV reviews the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer, a compact crossover with all-wheel drive, priced at $30,730. The vehicle features an Ecotec 1.3L turbo engine, 9-speed automatic transmission, and 8 inches of ground clearance. While it offers underbody protection and a decent interior with wireless Apple CarPlay, the Trailblazer struggles off-road with harsh suspension and noisy freeway driving. It’s a capable crossover but lacks refinement and performance for its price range, making competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek or Hyundai Tucson more attractive options.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is a compact crossover aimed at adventure enthusiasts, especially young drivers.
• ⚙️ The tested model is the all-wheel drive Active trim, priced at $30,730 with dark chrome trim and several options.
• 🔧 Under the hood is a 1.3L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
• 🌲 The all-wheel drive system only engages when a button is pressed, and never delivers more than 50% power to the rear wheels, making it more of an assist system than a performance-focused one.
• 🧳 The interior features 54.4 cubic feet of cargo space with seats down, USB ports (including USB-C), a single-zone climate control, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
• 🚦 The Trailblazer has basic safety features like collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control, but lacks lane centering.
• 🛞 Despite aggressive-looking tires, the Trailblazer struggles in off-road conditions due to harsh suspension and limited ground clearance of 8 inches.
• 🏔️ Performance-wise, it recorded a 0-60 mph time of around 9.09 seconds in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive modes, with noticeable torque steer.
• 🎧 The cabin is noisy on the freeway, with cheaper interior materials despite its relatively high price for the class.
• 💡 The reviewer concludes that while the Trailblazer can handle light off-road challenges, its poor suspension and price make it less appealing than competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek and Hyundai Tucson.

Q & A

What model of the Chevrolet Trailblazer is reviewed in the video?

The model reviewed is the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer all-wheel drive Active trim.

What is the price of the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Active as tested?

The price of the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Active as tested is $30,730, including delivery.

What are the engine specifications of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer?

The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is equipped with a 1.3-liter turbocharged Ecotec inline 3-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

How does the all-wheel drive system of the Trailblazer function?

The all-wheel drive system in the Trailblazer operates as front-wheel drive 99% of the time and only activates the rear wheels when the all-wheel drive mode is engaged, shifting power to the back through a middle clutch system.

What is the ground clearance of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer Active?

The ground clearance of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer Active is 8 inches.

What features are available for passengers in the second row?

The second row offers ample legroom, armrests with cupholders, USB and USB-C ports, and an AC socket.

What is the cargo capacity of the 2021 Trailblazer with the seats folded down?

With the seats folded down, the 2021 Trailblazer offers up to 54.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

How does the reviewer describe the driving performance of the Trailblazer's 1.3-liter engine?

The reviewer notes that the engine sounds like it’s working hard but only produces 155 horsepower, which doesn't make it feel very powerful, especially during acceleration.

How did the Trailblazer perform in the 0-60 mph test?

The Trailblazer took 9.09 seconds in front-wheel drive mode and 9.32 seconds in all-wheel drive mode to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, with the latter being slower due to parasitic losses.

What is the reviewer’s overall opinion on the Trailblazer's off-road performance?

The reviewer finds the off-road performance underwhelming, criticizing the suspension for being harsh and the overall driving experience for lacking comfort. The vehicle is capable but not enjoyable on challenging terrain.