For those looking for value in the saturated compact SUV market, buy American. In particular, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS all-wheel drive.
Trailblazer comes in LS, LT, ACTIV and RS trims, with the base model starting near $20,000, almost unheard of for any SUV.
“Slotting between the Trax and Equinox, Trailblazer provides us with a great opportunity to expand the Chevy SUV family to new audiences,” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet passenger car and crossover marketing. “With the new ACTIV trim, plus the sporty RS trim, we can appeal to customers’ varying active lifestyles.”
Trailblazer features a bold front fascia and sports car-inspired rear design. The ACTIV trim package amplifies this sporty style with a two-tone roof, unique front and rear fascia and dual exhaust, along with sport terrain tires and suspension tuning enhancements. Mine came with a “Sterling Gray Metallic” coat of enamel, new for 2023.
The model appears to target youthful buyers and young families that place a premium on versatility and budget. Although Trailblazer works equally well for empty-nesters and retired seniors.
My tester was powered by an Ecotec 1.3-liter engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that generates 155 horsepower. RS seats five adults comfortably and is rated at 30 miles per gallon down the highway by the EPA.
Trailblazer is available with Chevy’s selectable AWD, also found in the Blazer and Traverse. Selectable AWD allows drivers to decide whether to activate their AWD system in off-road or inclement weather situations, or to deactivate when AWD performance is not required, to achieve improved fuel economy.
Optional technology ($1,620) and convenience packages ($520) add to an extra-long list of standard equipment. The tech package is highlighted by a HD rear vision camera, Bose premium, seven-speaker audio system, wireless phone charging, and eight-inch infotainment touch-screen. Convenience features include single-zone air conditioning, 120-volt power outlet, USB ports, and illuminated vanity mirrors.
Inside, the Trailblazer features a driver-focused, dual-cockpit interior design with an integrated center stack. High-quality finishes and stitching are customized to allow for different appearances at each trim level. The center console provides several storage options with up to 3.5 liters of open storage and 4.4 liters of storage under the armrest, as well as dual cupholders.
The Trailblazer features 40/60 split folding second row seats, which enables the vehicle to accommodate golf bags with room to spare. Overall storage capacity is rated up to 54.4 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. For additional convenience, an available hands-free lift-gate allows groceries to be loaded with ease.
Connectivity is improved with the ability to use two Bluetooth-paired phones concurrently. In addition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Sirius XM radio provide owners with options for an endless supply of music.
Completing the Trailblazer package are a suite of standard safety and driver-assistance features including forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, intelli-beam headlamps, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, teen driver, and rear seat reminder.
My tester added an optional driver confidence package ($345) that added rear cross-traffic alert, lane change alert, and side blind-zone alert.
For the money, Trailblazer RS provides value and the functionality desired by most drivers battling the diverse driving conditions that Northwest weather doles out.
Base Price: $28,595
Price As Driven: $31,530
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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