2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer presented itself as a compact yet stylish SUV, reminiscent of a smaller Chevrolet Blazer. It struck a balance between ruggedness and sophistication, with intricate lighting elements and dark chrome trim enhancing its upscale appearance. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling cues, with the Activ featuring a rugged front fascia and roof rails, while the RS boasted a sportier look with blacked-out trim and dual exhaust outlets. The contrasting roof colours added a distinctive touch, making the Trailblazer stand out among its peers. Inside, the Activ model showcased a mix of leatherette upholstery and copper-toned accents, providing a unique yet somewhat eclectic interior design.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer underwent a minor styling refresh, further emphasizing its sporty theme. The redesigned grille and thinner accent lights contributed to a more athletic appearance. Inside, the dashboard received a significant update with a new digital instrument panel and an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering a modern look. However, the use of harder plastics on the doors and dash was noticeable, though the padded armrests and fabric inserts added a touch of comfort. The interior layout bore similarities to the Volkswagen Taos, while the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offered different design approaches, with the latter providing a more luxurious feel.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform and powertrains with the Buick Encore GX, featuring a standard 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. An optional 1.3-litre turbo-three increased output to 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The 1.2-litre engine was available only with front-wheel drive, while the 1.3-litre engine offered both FWD and AWD options. The AWD models came with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which, although not the most refined, provided a decent driving experience. The Activ model's dampers were tuned for gravel roads, offering a composed ride on pavement, though some bouncing was noted over road imperfections. The selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems.

The 2024 Trailblazer continued with the same powertrain options, with the base 1.2-litre engine delivering 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The 1.3-litre engine, available with AWD, produced 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the 1.3-litre engine was adequate, it required planning for highway acceleration due to slow transmission response. The Trailblazer's handling was average, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The ride quality was generally smooth, with muted road and wind noise. Comparatively, the Volkswagen Taos offered similar power but slightly better handling, while the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 provided different performance experiences, with the latter being more athletic.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite being one of the smallest SUVs, offered decent utility. It was wider and taller than the original S-10 Blazer, with a longer wheelbase enhancing passenger space. The Trailblazer matched the Kia Seltos in headroom and offered more rear legroom than the Buick Encore GX. However, the flat rear seat cushions made long trips less comfortable. Cargo space was respectable, with 716 litres behind the rear seats and 1,540 litres with them folded, though it lagged behind the Kia Seltos. The Trailblazer's towing capacity was limited to 454 kilograms. Up front, storage solutions included a covered bin, deep tray, and cupholders, though the dashboard carve-out's purpose was unclear.

The 2024 Trailblazer provided ample front space and excellent visibility, enhancing the sense of roominess. The wireless charging pad, cupholders, and storage bins offered practical solutions for personal items. The front seats were comfortably padded, with heated options available on most trims. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and adequate headroom, making it suitable for transporting adults or rear-facing infant seats. Cargo space remained competitive, with 716 litres behind the rear seats, nearly matching the Hyundai Kona. The available hands-free power liftgate added convenience, with a selectable opening height to prevent damage in tight spaces.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bose audio, rear USB ports, and wireless charging were optional. While the optional features were adequate, the Trailblazer's tech offerings might not satisfy the most tech-savvy buyers. The 8-inch touchscreen was well-sized for the dashboard, with easy-to-read graphics and logical menus. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges effectively conveyed information, with smart design touches aiding comprehension.

The 2024 Trailblazer introduced a standard 11-inch infotainment touchscreen across all trims, offering a larger display than its predecessor. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard, complemented by an optional wireless charging pad. The digital instrument panel provided sharp graphics, though the infotainment system's response was slightly delayed. A native navigation system was absent, relying on smartphone connectivity for directions. The base audio system performed well, with an optional Bose upgrade available. Overall, the Trailblazer's technology features were average for the class, focusing on ease of use rather than impressiveness.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer came equipped with standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and high marks for front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with five stars in frontal and side crash tests and four stars in rollover testing.

The 2024 Trailblazer maintained its strong safety credentials, earning five stars from the NHTSA in overall, frontal, and side crash evaluations, and four stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it "good" scores in all crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Confidence package added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors, with adaptive cruise control available on certain trims. While the Trailblazer's safety features functioned well, some rivals offered more standard driver assists. A head-up display would have been a welcome addition, though the red warning lights effectively captured attention.