Is the Chevrolet Trailblazer 2023 Worth It?

Chevrolet’s newest version of its infamous Trailblazer series has been highly anticipated by everybody looking for a cost-effective, spacious, and easy-to-operate vehicle. But now that the Chevy Trailblazer 2023 is arriving on the scene, a question arises: what’s the newest Trailblazer bringing to the table? What upgrades are we most excited about? 

Well, for starters, the Trailblazer is as affordable as ever while featuring an easy-to-park, roomy cabin. Next, there’s the front-wheel-drive model that features a continuously variable auto transmission, and then an all-wheel-drive model with a nine-speed automatic transmission system. 

Not only that, but the Trailblazer 2023’s higher roof and 5 more cubic feet of cabin space than the Chevy Trax mean more people in the backseats is no problem. Even the front seats fold forward, so you can use the sturdy flat load floor whenever you need extra room. Read on to find out more about its features! 

The New And Improved Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2023 Trailblazer isn’t drastically different in appearance – there’s just a variety of new paint colours like Fountain Blue, Sterling Gray Metallic and Nitro Yellow Metallic. There’s also the additional option for an Iridescent Pearl roof color, which is pretty neat. 

The Trailblazer LT stands at $25,000 and can upgrade to the 1.3-liter three-cylinder for an additional $2000 (as opposed to the standard 1.2-liter). In addition, you can add all-wheel drive and enjoy the nine-speed automatic system. 

Some unique features of the newest Trailblazer are:

• 1.2 liter turbocharged inline-three engine – 137 horsepower
• All-wheel drive is available on all trims, with a 1.3 liter turbo-three engine and nine-speed automatic transmission
• Adaptive Cruise Control package, including driver assist, leather-wrapped steering and shift knob
• Convenience package that features automatic climate control, extra charging ports, a larger touchscreen

Engine and Transmission

The Trailblazer offers two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The 1.2 liter engine makes 137 horsepower while the 1.3 liter one makes 155 hp. So if you want to avail the all-wheel drive system, go for the 1.3 liter engine; the 1.2 liter engine only comes with front-wheel drive. Moreover, the all-wheel drive system enables the nine-speed automatic transmission system over the standard CVT.

The 1.3-liter all-wheel drive Trailblazer takes 9.4 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph, which is not as fast as expected. This means maneuvers like merging onto highways are less seamless.

However, the car does feel easy to drive around town at comparatively slower speeds, and it handles curvatures in the road easily enough. We would not recommend the Trailblazer for rocky terrain; the ride can be less smooth when driving over road imperfections.

Fuel Economy

According to the EPA, the most efficient Trailblazer 2023 is the front-wheel drive model equipped with the 1.3 liter three-cylinder engine. This model rates 29 mpg within the city and 33 mpg on highways, which is reduced to 26 mpg and 31 mpg, respectively if you upgrade to all-wheel drive. So for buyers who don’t require all-wheel drive, the 1.3 liter engine is available with a CVT, and this combo is surprisingly the most efficient.

For the 1.2 liter engine and front-wheel drive Trailblazer, the EPA estimates that it is rated at 29 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The 1.2 liter base engine is 162 lb-ft, paired with CVT and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available for all trims on the Trailblazer 2023 with the 1.3 liter turbo-three engine, which is 174 lb-ft.

Interior, Cargo Space and Comfort

Though the exterior design of the Trailblazer 2023 is pretty memorable, the interiors focus more on functionality, space and convenience. The driving position has a high perch like an SUV, and the rear seat is spacious enough for 2-3 adults. Though most of the interior is covered in black plastic, it is textured to add a little flair. 

In addition, upper-level models feature chrome designs and colored trims to elevate the sporty look. There’s also a large cargo bay behind the rear seats, which can be folded flat. Not only that, but the front passenger seat also folds front to make more space for extra-large items. 

The Trailblazer has ample rear legroom and roominess and a high roof, making the interior feel spacious and airy. The cargo space behind the first and second rows is 54.4/25.3 cubic feet, while the legroom is 40.9/39.4 inches. 

Technology and Connectivity

The 2023 Trailblazer features Chevrolet’s newest infotainment system, allowing buyers to connect two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. The standard is a 7.0-inch system, but you can opt for an 8.0-inch unit. Apple CarPlay, Sirius XM satellite radio and Android Auto integration are all available in the system. 

Moreover, you get wireless connections to the two smartphone programs if you go for the Technology package. The Trailblazer also features a standard 4-speaker stereo on the base L trim, which will upgrade to a 6 or 7-speaker system if you choose a higher trim like Activ and RS. Last but not least, the all-wheel drive Trailblazer also comes with an active noise-cancellation feature.

Driver-Assist and Safety Features

The 2022 Trailblazer had the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award under its belt, with high marks in every category (except for the base headlights, which were rated Acceptable). Even the NHTSA gave it a rating of five out of five stars. We expect nothing less from the 2023 Trailblazer!

The 2023 model comes with standard emergency braking, automatic high beams and lane-keeping assist. However, you need to add an extra bundle to any trim for cruise control and blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control is only available on LT trims and higher. 

The 2023 Trailblazer has basic driver-assist features, but more advanced tech is optional. You can find the 2023 Trailblazer’s crash test results here. Its key safety features are as follows:

• Pedestrian detection and automated emergency braking
• Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Optional adaptive cruise control

What Do We Recommend?

The four different trims of the 2023 Trailblazer are LS, LT, Activ, and RS. The RS is at the top of the range, but it, unfortunately, does not come with techs like automatic climate control or extra safety technology – two things that should be standard. However, the LT trim has perks like cruise control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and the best safety tech of all four.

Paired with the 1.3 liter engine and all-wheel drive, the LT trim would be our top recommendation for anyone looking to buy the 2023 Trailblazer. However, keep in mind that the front-wheel drive option is the most efficient with 29/33 mpg cty/hwy. So if you don’t need an all-wheel drive, we’d recommend you go for this instead.

Conclusion

We’d be lying if we said we don’t love the 2023 Trailblazer design. It looks sporty, spunky, and stylish, mixed with physical elements of the Blazer and Camaro that make it a brilliant crossover design. 

However, it’s worth noting that the 2023 Trailblazer is significantly slower than its competitors in the SUV crossover department. The drive isn’t as smooth as it could be, either. But if you’re looking to buy an affordable, spacious and efficient car, the Chevy trailblazer is right up your alley.

So what are you waiting for? Here at Auffenberg Farmington, MO, we have the latest 2023 Trailblazer Activ available for preorders. So head onto our website and place your order now!