
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD RS
Vehicle Type: SUV/Minivan Gasoline
65
overall score
Category Ranking: 33
Vehicle Price
Base Price:
$26,900
Price as Tested:
$32,350
Fuel Information
Fuel Type: Regular
Fuel Capacity (gal): 13.2
EPA City mpg: 26
EPA Highway mpg: 30
EPA Combined mpg: 28

Advanced Safety Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control [O]
- Advanced Headlights [S]
- Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
- Blind-Spot Warning [O]
- Forward-Collision Warning [S]
- Lane-Departure Warning [S]
- Lane-Keeping Assistance [S]
- Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [O]
- [S] Standard, [O] Optional
NHTSA Rating:
Overall Observations
GM brought back the Trailblazer name in 2021 after more than a
decade’s absence, although this subcompact crossover literally has
nothing else in common with its namesake, a larger, truck-based SUV.
Topping the list of changes is thoroughly modern styling, reminiscent
of the brand’s recently reintroduced Blazer.
The Trailblazer offers a choice of 2 turbocharged 3-cylinder
engines. The optional 1.3-liter version (155 hp) on our test vehicle
delivered decent acceleration around town, along with good fueleconomy
numbers (28 mpg in combined city/highway driving).
Handling is nimble, but the ride quality is unsettled and rough over
bad pavement.
In the cabin, you’ll find a spacious interior with a rear seat that’s
suitable for 2 adult passengers—although the materials quality could
stand some improvement. Fold down the rear seatbacks and the flatfolding
front seat, and you get a surprisingly large cargo hold.
Entry-level Trailblazer trims are low on features, but our test model
came loaded with plenty of desirable options, including a panoramic
sunroof, power liftgate, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
smartphone integration.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
Strong Points
- Stylish exterior
- Spacious interior forpeople and cargo
- Decent value
Weak Points
- Slow acceleration
- Harsh ride
- Cheap interior lookand feel
Vehicle Specifications
Model year tested: 2021
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/3
Curb weight (lbs): 3400.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 173.7 / 71.2 / 65.7
Wheelbase (in): 103.9
Number of air bags: 10
Warranty (months/miles): 36/36,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Hankook Kinergy GT
Front and rear tire size: 225/55 R18
Max towing capacity (lbs): 1000
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Auto 9-speed
Drivetrain type: All wheel
Engine/motor: 1.3L 3-Cyl. turbo Ecotec
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 155 @ 5600
Test Data
Test Vehicle Scores
Advanced Safety Features:
7.10Fuel Efficiency:
4.95EPA Emissions Score:
7.00Acceleration:
2.32Braking:
6.33Handling:
7.32Ride Quality:
6.39Interior Size:
3.30Easy of Entry and Exit:
6.80Visibility:
6.57Interior Noise:
4.94Cargo Capacity:
2.17
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Car Guide Categories:
- SUV/Minivan |
- Large |
- Midsize |
- Small |
- Pickup |
All Makes:
IIHS Top Safety Pick Vehicles: