Chevy Trailblazer 2021: Review, Specs, & More!

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer? Well, you've come to the right place! This spunky little SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know. We'll dive into its performance, interior, technology, safety features, and even compare it to some of its rivals. So buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer Stand Out?

The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer marks the return of a familiar nameplate, but this time, it's hitting the subcompact SUV segment. This means it's smaller and more affordable than the original Trailblazer, making it a great option for city dwellers or anyone looking for a fuel-efficient and versatile vehicle. What really makes it stand out, though, is its bold styling. Chevy has given the Trailblazer a distinctive look that borrows cues from the larger Blazer, giving it a sporty and adventurous vibe. You'll notice the sharp lines, the aggressive front fascia, and the available two-tone roof, all of which contribute to its eye-catching design. But it's not just about looks; the Trailblazer also offers a surprising amount of space and practicality for its size. With its clever storage solutions and available all-wheel drive, it's ready for just about anything. Another key differentiator is the Trailblazer's emphasis on technology. Even on the lower trims, you get a user-friendly infotainment system with smartphone integration. As you move up the trim levels, you can add features like a larger touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety technologies. The Trailblazer also offers a range of customization options, with different trims and packages to suit your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a basic commuter car or a more rugged and feature-packed SUV, there's likely a Trailblazer that fits the bill. And with its competitive pricing, it's a compelling option in a crowded segment. So, in a nutshell, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer stands out for its bold styling, surprising practicality, user-friendly technology, and affordable price point. It's a well-rounded package that's worth considering if you're in the market for a subcompact SUV.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer offers two engine options, both of which are turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The base engine is a 1.2-liter turbo-three that produces 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. While this engine is adequate for basic city driving, it can feel a bit strained when accelerating or climbing hills. For those looking for more power, there's an available 1.3-liter turbo-three that bumps the output to 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a noticeable improvement in performance and makes the Trailblazer feel more confident on the road. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. However, some drivers may find the CVT to be a bit uninspiring, as it can sometimes drone or feel sluggish. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those who need extra traction in inclement weather. The all-wheel-drive system can be engaged on demand, allowing you to switch between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive as needed. In terms of handling, the Trailblazer is surprisingly nimble and responsive. The steering is light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The ride quality is also decent, although it can be a bit firm on rough roads. Overall, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer offers a reasonably engaging driving experience for a subcompact SUV. While the base engine may leave something to be desired, the available 1.3-liter engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. And with its nimble handling and available all-wheel drive, it's a capable and versatile vehicle.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer, you'll find a well-designed and surprisingly spacious cabin. Despite its subcompact dimensions, the Trailblazer offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making it a pleasant place to spend time on long drives. The overall design of the interior is modern and stylish, with a mix of hard plastics and soft-touch materials. While the plastics aren't the most luxurious, they feel durable and well-assembled. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach. One of the highlights of the Trailblazer's interior is its technology. Even on the base model, you get a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. As you move up the trim levels, you can upgrade to an 8-inch touchscreen with even more features, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium Bose audio system. The Trailblazer also offers a range of advanced safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert. These features can help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. In terms of cargo space, the Trailblazer offers a generous 25.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which expands to 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is more than enough space for groceries, luggage, or other gear. Overall, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer offers a well-appointed and technologically advanced interior that's sure to please. With its spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and user-friendly infotainment system, it's a great place to spend time on the road.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These features include: Automatic Emergency Braking, which can help to prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if you don't react in time; Forward Collision Alert, which warns you if you're approaching another vehicle too quickly; Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, which helps you stay in your lane by providing gentle steering assistance and alerting you if you start to drift out of your lane; Following Distance Indicator, which shows you the gap time between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you; and IntelliBeam Auto High Beams, which automatically switch between high and low beams depending on the surrounding traffic conditions. In addition to these standard features, the Trailblazer also offers a range of optional safety technologies, such as: Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you; Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space; Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, which alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot when you're changing lanes; and Rear Park Assist, which helps you park safely by providing audible and visual alerts when you're getting close to an object. The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer has also performed well in crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given it a 4-star overall safety rating, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named it a Top Safety Pick. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and its strong crash test ratings, the Trailblazer is a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike.

Comparing the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer to its Competitors

The subcompact SUV segment is a crowded one, with plenty of compelling options to choose from. So, how does the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer stack up against its rivals? Let's take a look at a few key competitors:

  • Kia Seltos: The Seltos is another stylish and well-equipped subcompact SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It boasts a more powerful base engine than the Trailblazer, as well as a more refined interior. However, the Trailblazer offers more cargo space and a more engaging driving experience.
  • Hyundai Kona: The Kona is a fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient subcompact SUV that's known for its sporty handling and bold styling. It's also available with a fully electric powertrain. However, the Kona's interior is a bit cramped, and its cargo space is limited compared to the Trailblazer.
  • Nissan Kicks: The Kicks is one of the most affordable subcompact SUVs on the market. It offers good fuel economy and a surprisingly spacious interior. However, the Kicks lacks all-wheel drive and its engine is underpowered compared to the Trailblazer.
  • Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 is a premium-feeling subcompact SUV that offers a refined driving experience and a stylish interior. It's also available with a powerful turbocharged engine. However, the CX-30's rear seat is cramped, and its cargo space is limited compared to the Trailblazer.

Ultimately, the best subcompact SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish and versatile SUV with plenty of cargo space and a user-friendly infotainment system, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is definitely worth considering. However, it's always a good idea to test drive a few different models before making a final decision.

Is the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer Right for You?

So, after all this, is the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer the right car for you? Well, that depends! If you're looking for a small SUV that's stylish, practical, and packed with technology, then the Trailblazer could be a great fit. It's perfect for city dwellers who need something easy to maneuver and park, but it's also capable enough for weekend adventures.

Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

You might love the Trailblazer if:

  • You want a distinctive and modern design.
  • You need a good amount of cargo space for its size.
  • You appreciate user-friendly technology and smartphone integration.
  • Safety features are a high priority for you.
  • You're looking for an affordable SUV.

However, it might not be the best choice if:

  • You need a lot of power for towing or hauling.
  • You prioritize a luxurious interior over practicality.
  • You want the absolute best fuel economy in its class.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take a 2021 Chevy Trailblazer for a test drive and see how it feels. Check out the different trim levels, try out the technology, and see if it fits your lifestyle. Happy car hunting!