In what is becoming a crowded segment, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is taking over a growing niche in the crossover SUV market slotted between the subcompact and compact segments. This might just be the ultimate niche in terms of value, as you will find a combination of exceptional power and impressive fuel efficiency. What sets the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer from the non-pack is its sporty stylings and emphasis on tech. The all-new Trailblazer is loaded with tech and safety features, and loaded with value.
If you are looking to buy an SUV with an impressive array of standard safety and tech features, look no further than the Chevy Trailblazer. Not only does this SUV defy the boundaries of conventional segments, but it also defies the idea that you have to pay extra to get more. Included with the base trim is an impressive amount of technology, both for your convenience and safety. And it does it with style—a two-tone roof reveals its youthful and upscale personality.
Even more anticipated than the Trailblazer’s return is its two engine offerings. The Trailblazer boasts two three-cylinder engine options that bring a rare combination of power and efficiency, without having to compromise in either department. And with a starting price under $20,000, this is an SUV that is truly loaded with value. With the many standard features at this entry-level trim, you will not find a better value anywhere on the market. This is an SUV with value and personality, something hard to find in the small SUV market, and exactly what you would expect from the return of this iconic Trailblazer nameplate. So let’s take a more in-depth look at how the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is redefining the market, and what that means for you.
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While other SUVs in the subcompact and compact segments might have the sporty stylings you would expect from a high-performance SUV, do they actually have the powertrains to back up their outward appearance? Not usually, as most smaller SUVs are outfitted with smaller engines and focus solely on fuel efficiency, and getting from point A to point B. But the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer offers an impressive combination of power and efficiency to match its sporty persona. It is built for some serious urban trailblazing.
The base engine is a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3 that produces up to 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. For an entry-level engine, this is a lot of power where you need it most. The abundance of torque brings the kind of power you’ll appreciate off the line, and with enough horsepower to accelerate and pass on the highway, you will not be disappointed with this engine. This engine uses a CVT, so you’ll have a smooth ride, and all at a price that substantially undercuts its rivals, which are priced north of $20,000. This might be the best bargain on the market.
After the base trim level, the more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-3 can be had with all trim levels. This can be paired with all-wheel drive as well, which employs a 9-speed automatic transmission, making for a powertrain with tremendous value. The 1.3-liter turbocharged engine will give you 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque while returning up to 29/33 MPG. If you live in an area with inclement weather or dirt roads, having this option is invaluable. With great torque and all-wheel drive, your Trailblazer will be able to take you off the pavement and through the weather with no problems.
Both powertrains bring excellent value—unprecedented value, you could even say. With an amazing combination of power and efficiency, you will not find this kind of engineering available at a price so affordable. For perspective, you will find the same two engine options in the up-scale Buick Encore GX, so you know the engineering is top-notch.
What sets the Trailblazer apart from its rivals in the segments above and below it is the emphasis on standard features, which include a great deal of impressive and useful tech. Included is Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system and a 7-inch touchscreen. Remember, we’re still talking about an SUV that starts under $20,000, one that includes the same engine as a Buick Encore GX. So you would think that would be it for the standard features? Not even close. We’ll get to the impressive suite of safety features later—also standard—but now let’s talk about the rest of the tech included.
Also standard with the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is Bluetooth audio streaming for two devices, which is a feature of Chevy’s newest infotainment platform. This means the Trailblazer will be equipped with the latest technology from Chevy. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are also included, as well as two USB ports. We are still talking about the lowest trim level, so you are starting to see just how much value is packed into this SUV. Without adding anything, you are already looking at an incredibly appointed SUV that has just about everything you could need. Whether you are carpooling or using it as a daily driver, the base-level trim offers buyers the modern conveniences of competitors’ upper-trim levels.
Since the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is easy on the budget, let’s take a look at some of the optional tech available. An 8-inch touchscreen is a solid extra and one that’s affordable now with such a low starting price. Keyless open and remote start is another option suddenly within reach. LED taillights, leather seats, leather shift knob and steering wheel, a Bose audio system, a wireless hotspot, and wireless phone charging—these are all options that can be added now, depending on your needs and budget.
In terms of interior space, you will not be disappointed. If you are looking for a small SUV, but the subcompact segment is just too small, the Trailblazer will prove exceedingly functional. With a maximum cargo capacity of 54.4 cubic feet, you will have room for friends and family and space for all of your toys for a day at the beach. The 60/40-split second-row seats fold to allow for larger objects, such as surfboards or kayaks—up to 8.5 feet long. Pretty impressive. You’ll also be impressed with its best-in-class rear legroom.
What’s unique about the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is the amount of safety features general across all trim levels. Even with the entry-level trim, you will find an impressive suite of safety features. These include forward-collision alerts, automatic braking, front pedestrian braking, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warnings, a teen-driver system, and a rear-seat reminder. This is an incredible collection of safety features and one that you and your family will certainly appreciate.
There are not too many safety features left as optional. You’ll find most of them included as standard. Options such as a teen driver system bring peace of mind you will not find in this price range, which makes this a great SUV for a younger driver. Not only will they appreciate the stylish two-tone colors, but you will appreciate the ability to control their driving habits. With this feature, you can ensure they are driving the speed limit, not playing the stereo too loud, and wearing their seat belt, among other things.
Optional features include adaptive cruise control, which uses a front camera to watch the vehicle in front of you and automatically adjust your speed and braking to the flow of traffic. You’ll also find lane-change alerts and a rear parking assist system, which will sound an alarm if you come too close to objects behind you when backing up. With this collection of safety features, you and your family will be sure to stay safe on the road, and with so much included at even the base model, you will have little to worry about as you take off for an afternoon at the beach.