2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer loses one of its available engines but is otherwise unchanged for what will be its final model year. This five-passenger midsize SUV has a traditional truck-type design that's shared with the GMC Envoy 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. The optional 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 has been discontinued. SS models have a 390-hp 6.0-liter V8. 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. Maximum towing capacity is 6800 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. A wireless cell-phone link is newly available on the 2009 TrailBlazer. 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 Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.