There’s a dizzying array of entry-level crossovers, but many make significant compromises in exchange for affordable pricing.
Some are front-wheel drive only, while others are simply too small. Those aren’t the only issues as “cheap” can be used to describe more than their price tag.
However, the segment is expanding to include slightly larger and better equipped models. They cost a little more than true entry-level crossovers, but they’re far more spacious and practical.
The latest member of this group is the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer which starts at $19,995 including the destination charge. That significantly undercuts rivals such as the Kia Seltos which begins at $23,110.
A Stylish Crossover With Multiple Personalities
While the previous Trailblazer was large and available in a seven-seat configuration, the 2021 model is significantly smaller and more stylish. The front end is dominated by a dual-port grille which is flanked by LED daytime running lights and large halogen headlights.
Further back, there’s plastic body cladding and wheels ranging in sizes from 16- to 18-inches. The model also has a blacked out A-pillar and a stylish C-pillar which causes a sizable blind spot.
Customers looking for a more unique appearance can opt for the ACTIV or RS trim seen here. The former gives the crossover a more rugged appearance as the model is equipped with a two-tone roof, trapezoidal exhaust tips and a unique front fascia which provides additional ground clearance. There are also more functional changes including underbody shielding, uniquely tuned dampers and 17-inch wheels wrapped in Hankook Sport Terrain tires.
The Trailblazer RS goes in a different direction as it has a “performance-inspired mesh grille” which is flanked by faux intakes which reside below the headlights. The model also has black accents and a sportier rear end with round exhaust tips.
While styling is always subjective, we think the Trailblazer looks okay – especially in ACTIV trim. The RS looks like it’s trying too hard, but the black exterior helps to minimize that.
A Surprisingly Spacious Interior
Stepping into the cabin, drivers are greeted by a straightforward interior with lots of hard plastic. That shouldn’t be surprising given the price, but much of the plastic is high quality and looks fairly good.
Speaking of good looks, the Trailblazer is equipped with metal accents and they add a little pizzazz to the cabin. However, the real eye-catchers are RS’s flat-bottom steering wheel and red accents.
The Trailblazer also features a 7- or 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. The larger display is included in the Convenience Package – on the LT, RS and ACTIV trims – and it’s fast and easy to operate. The package also adds an assortment of other goodies including an automatic climate control system, USB charging ports, a 120-volt power outlet and an auto-dimming rearview mirror – among other things.
The model can also be equipped with a number of features you typically wouldn’t find on an affordable crossover. Among them are adaptive cruise control and a panoramic glass sunroof.
The model also has a host of standard safety features including Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. They’re joined by Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam Headlights, a Rear Vision Camera and a Rear Seat Reminder.
Customers can get additional driver assistance systems including the aforementioned adaptive cruise control. Other options include Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert.
Given the Trailblazer’s compact dimensions, the seats are a little narrow but otherwise comfortable. However, the big news is the roomy rear bench which can easily hold two adults.
The rear seats offer an impressive 39.4 inches (1,001 mm) of legroom and that’s plenty of space for this 6’2” reviewer even without moving the front seat forward. The model also offers plenty of headroom, even with the optional panoramic roof.
The sizable dimensions extend to the cargo compartment as there’s 25.3 cubic feet (716 liters) of room behind the second row. When folded down, there’s 54.4 cubic feet (1,540 liters) of luggage room. Speaking of folding seats, the front passenger seat can be folded flat and this enables the Trailblazer to haul items that are up to 8.5 feet (2.6 meters) long.
Small Crossover, Even Smaller Engines
Three-cylinder engines are pretty rare in the United States, but the Trailblazer offers two of them. The entry-level unit is a turbocharged 1.2-liter that produces 137 hp (102 kW / 139 PS) and 162 lb-ft (219 Nm) of torque. It is connected exclusively to a continuously variable transmission which sends power to the front wheels.
Higher-end variants and all-wheel drive models come equipped with a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine that develops 155 hp (115 kW / 157 PS) and 174 lb-ft (236 Nm) of torque. On front-wheel drive models it’s paired to a CVT, while all-wheel drive variants use a nine-speed automatic.
We drove a Trailblazer equipped with a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. The engine feels capable enough around town but, with only 155 hp (115 kW / 157 PS), you have to keep your expectations in check. That being said, the lack of power isn’t too noticeable until you merge onto the highway.
While we didn’t get a chance to test the entry-level 1.2-liter engine, you’ll probably want to skip it. Despite the seemingly small power difference of 18 hp (13 kW / 18 PS) and 12 lb-ft (16 Nm) of torque, Chevrolet said models equipped with the larger engine are “nearly” two seconds faster to 60 mph (96 km/h).
The larger engine doesn’t have a plenty at the pump either as it returns an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. That’s slightly better than the entry-level 1.2-liter engine which comes in at 28 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined. Of course, all-wheel drive variants are the thirstiest as they’re rated at 26 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined.
While continuously variable transmissions are typically looked down upon, Chevy’s CVT operated seamlessly and without fuss. Of course, if you’re dead set against it, you can get all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic.
The crossover’s stop/start system isn’t as unnoticeable as the gearbox, but it stops the engine to help to save fuel. It rumbles back to life fairly quickly, but isn’t exactly the smoothest or quietest affair.
Crossovers aren’t sports cars and that’s reflected in the driving experience. The Trailblazer is relatively nimble due to its small size, but driving it isn’t particularly rewarding. The handling is safe, secure and predictable, but there isn’t much sense of sportiness.
The same can be said of the steering which is a bit lifeless. However, there is a sport mode which changes the steering effort and shifting for a “sportier feel and response.” It’s joined by normal and snow modes, with the latter providing a “more progressive throttle input for improved vehicle acceleration on snow- and ice-covered roads.”
When it comes time to stop, the Trailblazer has a capable braking system with four discs that measure 16 inches (300 mm) front and 15 inches (264 mm) rear. They initially felt a touch grabby, but they’re fine after a quick learning curve.
One of few disappointing things about the Trailblazer is its less than stellar ride quality. In most situations, the crossover is comfortable but even moderate road imperfections make their presence known. That being said, Michigan roads are far from ideal and the experience isn’t too harsh.
A Good Combination Of Size And Value
While the world probably doesn’t need another crossover, the Trailblazer solves Chevrolet’s Goldilocks problem. The model isn’t too small or too large, but just right. The crossover also offers good fuel economy ratings, a spacious interior and upscale features.
Throw in a starting price of less than $20,000 and it’s easy to see why the Trailblazer is so appealing. Of course, there are some rough spots but they’re largely forgivable given the price.
Speaking of costs, our tester stickered at nearly $31,000. However, you can get a well-equipped model for around $27,000. That’s not exactly cheap, but that’s the point of the Trailblazer in the first place – being affordable without making too many compromises.
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