By Veeno Dewan
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a small, SUV, in front- or all-wheel-drive. It enters the Chevrolet lineup slotting in between the smaller Trax and larger Equinox. The Trailblazer is styled similarly to the good -looking Blazer, and features Chevrolet’s new signature twin grille, In the RS guise it looks racy looking with nice proportions The Trailblazer has two available engines: A 1.2L engine, making 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, as used in front-wheel-drive models, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All-wheel-drive models use 1.3L, liter engine making 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, with a nine-speed conventional automatic transmission.
In front-wheel drive versions, the Trailblazer starts at $23,798 to $27,188, while all-wheel-drive versions begin at $25,798. There are two top-line AWD trims: the off-road-oriented Activ with a few exterior ads ons, and the as tested sporty RS version which start at $30,498. The base LS trim includes emergency front braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, a tire-pressure monitoring system, tire fill alert and the rearview camera. The LS also includes automatic headlights with automatic high-beams, a seven-inch touchscreen with Wi-Fi hotspot, 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, a flat-folding front seat, and Teen Driver, which lets parents set speed and volume controls. All trim levels also include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The RS features: 18-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cloth and faux-leather upholstery, six speakers, active noise cancellation, and LED taillights.
The rear seats also fold flat for extra space. Another cool feature is the front passenger seat that folds forward, too for 8 feet long item storage and cartage, Overall cargo capacity is rated at 1,540 litres with the second row folded. An optional hands-free liftgate is also available.
The Trailblazer with all-wheel drive is officially rated at 8.9 L/100 km in city driving; 7.8 on the highway; and 8.4 in combined driving.
Overall the Trailblazer is a tempting buy. It look better than anything in its class and is fairly roomy, comfortable and offers a ton of flexible of cargo space. Despite is small engine, it is fun to drive and offers responsive handling. Highly recommended for families and the active inclined.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer: Priced from $23,798 to $30,498. RS model as tested: $37,478 including destination.
More info at www.chevolet.ca
