2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer gains curtain side airbags as standard equipment this year. This five-passenger midsize SUV has a traditional truck-type design that's shared with the GMC Envoy, Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7X. LT and sporty SS trims are offered. Standard on LT is a 285-hp 4.2-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. A 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 that includes GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation is optional. SS models have a 390-hp 6.0-liter V8 without Active Fuel Management. Maximum towing capacity is 6800 lb. All TrailBlazers use a 4-speed automatic transmission and are available with rear-wheel drive. LT offers 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-roading. TrailBlazer SS models offer all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. A navigation system and DVD entertainment are optional.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.