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2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Full Review
Date Published: 11/23/08
2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Review
TrailBlazer now matches rivals with 7-passenger capacity thanks to the midyear addition of an extended-length version with an extra row of seats. Chevy's midsize SUV shares its design, powertrain, and body-on-frame platform with the similarly redesigned 2002 Oldsmobile Bravada and GMC Envoy, though Bravada does not get an extended version. All are 4-dr wagons with their own styling details inside and out. TrailBlazer is being sold alongside the 1995-vintage Chevy Blazer, which Chevrolet repositions as a "budget" SUV. Compared to the Blazer, the standard-length TrailBlazer has a 6-inch-longer wheelbase and a body longer by 10 inches and wider and taller by 5. It's bigger inside, too. The standard-length model seats five. The new TrailBlazer EXT adds 16 inches to the wheelbase and body to fit a 3rd-row seat for 7-passenger capacity. The EXT also has longer rear doors and an elevated roofline over the rear seats.

All these redesigned General Motors SUVs share a new 270-hp inline 6-cyl engine linked to a 4-speed automatic transmission. (A V8 will reportedly be an EXT option for 2003.) Offered is rear-wheel drive with available traction control or GM's Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Standard are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and front side airbags (the driver bag covers head and torso). EXT versions and regular-length LTZ models have 17-inch wheels, other TrailBlazers get 16s.
Competition
This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys are the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander. Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy. If you don't venture off-road too far take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300 as well.
News
Chevy's new midsize SUV is only just hitting the trail, but initial sales have been encouraging at nearly 55,700 through the end of September 2001. Due to be added for 2003 is an extended-body TrailBlazer with a wheelbase stretched 16 inches to make room for a 3rd-row seat not currently offered. Rear doors will be longer than the fronts for easier access to the 2nd and 3rd rows. Standard power should be the 5.3-liter V8 that's optional in regular TrailBlazers.

As unlikely as it sounds, TrailBlazer is the basis for a hot rod pickup: a showroom version of the SSR concept that generated rave responses at recent auto shows. Now said to start production by late 2002 as an '03 model, the SSR uses a shortened TrailBlazer chassis with a standard Vortec 6000 V8 filched from the full-size Silverado. Horsepower should check in around 300. Chevy has already shown a near-final prototype that retains many concept features--most notably a rounded, retro-'50s look and a two-seat cab with an onboard-stowable hard top. Industry watchers see SSR as a sort of new-century performance car to take over from the soon-to-be-deceased Camaro. It also stands to be a hot seller, at least until the novelty wears off, though yearly production will reportedly be capped at only 10,000-12,000 units. That won't be nearly enough if reaction to the concept is any guide, so you might want to find out when your local dealer will start taking orders if you want to have the first SSR on your block.
2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Road Test
Pros Cons
Passenger and cargo room Steering/handling
Towing ability Fuel economy
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
6 4.7

GM says the new inline-6 gives its midsize SUVs V8 power and 6-cyl fuel economy. In practice, the engine is moving over two tons of SUV, so it doesn't feel as potent as its 270-hp rating might imply. But it does provide strong acceleration off the line and from all speeds. In our tests, it felt quicker than the Ford Explorer's 210-hp V6, if not quite as strong as Explorer's 240-hp V8. We have not tested extended-length TrailBlazer EXT or Envoy XL, but they add some 400 lb to curb weight, so acceleration and fuel economy could suffer.
Fuel Economy

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
4 3.8

Test 4WD TrailBlazers and Envoys averaged 16.2-17.4 mpg, depending on driving conditions. By comparison, test 4WD Explorers averaged 17.1 mpg with V6, and 14.1-15.4 with V8.
Ride Quality

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
5 4

TrailBlazer is notably absorbent, providing better-than-average comfort for a truck-based SUV. However, the rear air suspension optional on Envoy and standard on Bravada stays more composed over bumps than the coil-spring setup. The coil-spring design, mandatory on TrailBlazer, generates sloppy ride motions on undulating pavement.
Steering/Handling/Braking

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
3 3.5

Trucky, despite the new platform. TrailBlazer exhibits lots of body lean in sharp turns, and its steering feels vague. It has a relatively tight turning radius that makes for fairly easy maneuvering in close quarters. Brake pedal feel is numb and mushy, and hard stops trigger severe nose dive and some wander.
Quietness

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
4 4

Tire noise is pleasingly low, but wind rush can be considerable at highway speeds--even roaring around the closed sunroof. The new engine cruises quietly, but is gruff when cold and a touch ragged in full acceleration.
Controls

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
7 6

Clear and handy. Switchgear works smoothly, but adjusting the low-mounted climate controls forces a long look away from the road. Visibility good overall, though headrests and thick pillars can block aft sightlines. GM's grade of plastics doesn't measure up to most competitors', including the '02 Explorer.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
7 6.2

Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Seats too soft for optimal support, but not uncomfortable.
Room/Comfort (rear)

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
6 5.1

Ample head and knee room in the 2nd row for 6-footers, with adequate foot clearance beneath front seats despite uneven floorboard. Seat comfortable, fairly supportive, and wide enough for three adults with a little squeezing. Static displays of extended models show 2nd-row seats slide forward and tilt up to allow easier entry to 3rd-row seat, which is roomy enough for two adults and more-comfortable than those in most midsize SUVs.
Cargo Room

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
8 7.7

Generous in regular-length models, even larger in extended versions, and the 60/40 split seat folds easily, helped by automatic-folding headrests. However, the hatch's separate-opening glass has a high sill, making it difficult to load most items. Cabins have a good array of pockets and compartments for small items.
Value within Class

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
5 4.5

Absence of curtain side airbags is a shortfall in today's midsize SUV environment, but otherwise, GM's newest match most any rival for power, and both regular- and extended-length bodies are roomy relative to the competition. Similarly equipped, there isn't much difference in cost between TrailBlazer and Envoy. But we prefer Envoy for its better interior design details, and more important, for its available rear air suspension, which firms up road manners and avoids the sloppy ride and handling you're stuck with on the TrailBlazer. The demise of the Olds brand makes the Bravada a less-than-sound investment.
Total Score

LT/LTZ 4WD Class Average
55 49.5
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
37
Average Score
49
High Score
65
2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/16/2002
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
LS regular length 4-door wagon, 2WD $25,885 $23,425 $625
LS regular length 4-door wagon, 4WD $28,110 $25,440 $625
LT regular length 4-door wagon, 2WD $29,095 $26,331 $625
LT EXT extended length 4-door wagon, 2WD $31,035 $28,087 $625
LT regular length 4-door wagon, 4WD $31,320 $28,345 $625
LT EXT extended length 4-door wagon, 4WD $33,260 $30,100 $625
LTZ regular length 4-door wagon, 2WD $32,170 $29,114 $625
LTZ regular length 4-door wagon, 4WD $34,395 $31,127 $625
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
LS
Powertrain
4.2-liter dohc 6-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone manual controls, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, second-row split folding seat, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, power rear window release, rear intermittent wiper/washer, visor mirrors, map lights, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear liftgate, roof rack.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Platform hitch, 7-wire trailer harness, full-size spare tire, 245/70R16 tires, alloy wheels, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
LT adds to LS:
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System w/one year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), rear air conditioning and heater (EXT), leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, 8-way power driver seat, third-row split folding seat (EXT), heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, rear defogger, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, overhead console, universal garage-door opener, digital memo recorder, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
245/65R17 on/off-road tires (EXT), 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
LTZ adds to LT:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, driver-seat and mirror memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, rear climate controls, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, rear radio controls, outside-mirror-mounted turn-signal lights, outside-mirror reverse tilt-down, driver-side automatic day/night mirror.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
245/65R17 on-off road tires, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Preferred Equipment Group 1SB
LS
$880
$757
Cruise control, heated power mirrors, rear defogger, floormats, rear privacy glass, bodyside moldings.
Preferred Equipment Group 1SC
LS
$1,180
$1,015
Preferred Equipment Group 1SB plus leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry, cargo cover, theft-deterrent system w/alarm.
Preferred Equipment Group 1SE/1SJ
LT
$1,860
$1,600
Leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate controls, rear climate controls, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, rear radio controls, driver message center.
Leather Plus Pkg. YE5
LT EXT
$2,195
$1,888
Preferred Equipment Group 1SE/1SJ plus memory mirrors and driver seat, driver-side automatic day/night mirror, mirror-mounted turn signals.
Driver Convenience Pkg.
LT
$585
$503
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, rear climate controls, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, rear radio controls, driver message center.
Powertrain
Traction control
2WD LT, 2WD LTZ
$195
$168
Requires locking rear differential.
Locking rear differential
LS, LT, LTZ
$270
$232
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System
LS
$965
$830
Includes one year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), overhead console, universal garage-door opener, digital memo recorder, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors.
Rear Seat Entertainment System
LT, LTZ
$995
$856
DVD player, screen, headphones. NA w/power sunroof.
Power sunroof
LS, LT, LTZ
$800
$688
LS requires OnStar System.
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
LS
$150
$129
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
LT
$395
$340
LTZ
$295
$254
Bose sound system
LT, LTZ
$495
$426
Requires AM/FM/cassette/CD player or AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Rear defogger
LS
$197
$169
Heated front seats
LT EXT, LTZ
$250
$215
LT requires Leather Plus Pkg.
Utility floormats
LT, LTZ
$
$
Cargo mat
LT regular, LTZ
$40
$34
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Running boards
LT, LTZ
$375
$323
Special paint
LT, LTZ
$95
$82
Engine block heater
LS, LT, LTZ
$35
$30
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Skid plates
4WD
$130
$112
245/70R16 white-letter tires
LS, LT
$140
$120
245/65R17 white-letter tires
LTZ
$140
$120
2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4-door wagon Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 113.0 129.0
Overall Length, in. 191.8 207.8
Overall Width, in. 74.6 74.7
Overall Height, in. 71.9 77.1
Curb Weight, lbs. 4600 5020
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 80.1 100.2
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.7 28.0
Seating Capacity 5 7
Front Head Room, in. 40.2 40.2
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 44.6 44.6
Rear Head Room, in. 39.6 39.6
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 37.1 37.1
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I6
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.2 /256
Horsepower @ rpm. 270 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 275 @ 3600
Availability Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
 
4-speed automatic 15/21
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4-door wagon Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 3 NA
Front Impact, Passenger 3 NA
Rollover Resistance 3 NA
Side Impact, Driver 5 NA
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 NA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 3/36,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: 4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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