Here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse as we take an extended glance back at the Trailblazer's history, it saw its beginnings in 1999 as more of a truck that sported hefty V6 and V8 engines. The lineup for this year's offerings includes the L, LT, and ACTIV trim levels, with the L model seeing AWD availability. Under the hood is the amazingly impressive Ecotec 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder, cranking out 155 horsepower and 174 lb. ft. of torque. Two designs of this engine are available: one for front-drive models connected to a CVT transmission and one for the AWD trims connected to a 9-speed automatic.
After a thorough test drive, the 3-cylinder engine was the most frequently brought up topic of conversation for most of the week! When the turbo kicks in, the low-end acceleration is immensely adequate for driving around town, and you'll accomplish the zero to 60 trot in about 8 seconds. Even seasoned drivers that get behind the wheel won't know that this is a 3-cylinder present under the hood. If you intend on fulfilling cargo-hauling duties and frequently driving with 4 passengers, a killer offering such as the brand-new Blazer may also be just right for you!
With the presence of skid plates to protect the underside, the AWD Trailblazer is adequately fit for off-roading, and with both seats folded down, there is ample room for gear to conquer a fitting outdoor expedition. Every trim level comes equipped with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam automatic high beam headlights. Each model also comes with Android and Apple capability, air conditioning, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Make sure to closely look at the ACTIV trim level if you are looking for top-notch features and a luxurious daily drive: here you obtain leatherette stitched seating, power driver seat with lumbar and auto high beams, faux skid plate in the lower front chin, and a revised bumper section for better ground clearance. The Technology Package offers the added jolt of a Bose seven-speaker stereo, HD surround vision camera, adaptive smart cruise, driver info cameras, wireless Apple and Android, HD radio, and a 4.2-inch diagonal multi-color display.
