2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer: Road Test
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2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer ▼
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- MSRP: $26,895 -$35,545
- Invoice: $24,340 -$32,168
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Our road test for the 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer help you decide if a 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 4.9 |
In regular-length versions of TrailBlazer, Envoy, and Bravada, the 6 cyl offers plenty of power for everyday driving, including highway merging and passing. Extended versions weigh about 350 lb more, and though the 6 cyl is still adequate, the V8 engine adds some useful muscle when towing or hauling heavy loads. But the V8 doesn't feel substantially stronger than the 6 cyl in everyday driving and costs $1500, several hundred more than the V8 option in such rivals as the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Test regular-length models with 4WD averaged 14.9-17.9 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Extended-use-test 6-cyl 4WD Envoy XL averaging 14.6 mpg over its first 9810 miles. Test V8 versions averaged 15.2-15.7 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
Base-suspension versions absorb bumps quite well for SUVs, but they suffer float and wander at highway speeds. Optional on Envoy and Bravada, but unavailable on TrailBlazer, is a rear load-leveling air suspension that's more composed on rough roads than the base coil-spring setup. Longer wheelbase of 7-passenger versions helps smooth out bumps, but without the air suspension offered only on Envoy, these models also porpoise through dips and swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.5 |
Disappointing overall. Lots of body lean in sharp turns. Steering has vague feel and demands lots of correcting at highway speed. Note that rear load-leveling air suspension gives Envoy and Bravada flatter cornering, more-precise steering. A relatively tight turning radius makes close-quarters maneuvering fairly easy. Standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes deliver adequate stopping power but spongy pedal action, and quick stops trigger marked nosedive and some wander. Traction control optional on 2WD models works well in the snow.
QUIETNESS
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Tire noise pleasingly low, but wind rush can be considerable at highway speeds; there's roar even around a closed sunroof. The 6-cyl engine cruises quietly enough, but sounds gruff when cold and a touch ragged at full throttle. The V8 is quieter overall.
CONTROLS
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Clear and handy. Switchgear works smoothly, but adjusting the low-mounted climate controls forces a long look away from the road. Envoy, Bravada, and Ascender have more-upscale dashboard design than TrailBlazer, but interiors on all these SUVs suffer GM's generic fabrics and unappealing molded plastics, which don't match the look and feel of most competitors' materials.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Seats too soft for optimal support, but not uncomfortable. Visibility good to front and sides, though headrests and thick pillars can block over-the-shoulder and aft sightlines--especially on 7-seat models.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Six-footers have ample 2nd-row head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space despite uneven floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, and wide enough for three adults with a little squeezing. On 7-seat models, the 2nd-row seats slide forward and tilt up for entry/exit to the 3rd-row seat, which is roomy enough for two adults and more comfortable than those in most midsize SUVs.
CARGO ROOM
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 9 | 7.8 |
Generous in regular-length versions, almost cavernous in longer 7-passenger models. The 60/40 split 2nd-row seat folds easily, helped by automatic-folding headrests. However, 3rd-row seatbacks rest several inches above the cargo floor when folded, denying the convenience of a flat load surface. Liftgate's opening glass is relatively high, making it difficult to use as a loading or unloading portal. Cabins have good array of pockets and compartments for small items.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
Lack of curtain side airbags is a minus in today's SUV market, and making front side airbags optional just to lower the base price seems ill-advised. Otherwise, these GM-built midsizers match most rivals for pace and space. TrailBlazer is the price and sales leader among the GM trio, but we pick Envoy as the best overall value. It tops TrailBlazer in interior decor, and its optional rear load-leveling air suspension delivers needed improvements in ride and handling. Bravada's resale and lease-residual values are harmed by the phaseout of Oldsmobile, and Ascender sells in very low volume.
Total Score
| LT/LTZ 4WD | EXT 4WD, 6 cyl | EXT 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | 56 | 57 | 51.2 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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