Chevrolet Trailblazer

Summary

In an attempt to tap the growing SUV market, General Motors (GM) India is all set to launch the all-new Chevrolet Trailblazer on October 21, 2015. Unveiled at the 2014 Auto Expo, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is based on the ladder frame chassis, and gets a 200bhp, 2.8-litre diesel powertrain. It’s one of the most practical and bigger cars in its league. With huge body-built and strong off-road capabilities, the Trailblazer will certainly appeal the target buyers and enthusiasts. The company will import the vehicle from Thailand via CBU (completely built up) route.

Exterior

The Trailblazer features bold and masculine stances, and offers a commanding road presence. On the front fascia, it gets conventional Chevrolet dual port grille, prominent bumper and large projector headlamps. The SUV sits on GM’s ladder frame chassis, and rides on large 18-inches wheels wrapped with 265/60 R18 tyres. Other design elements include LED brake lights with jewel effect, rear windscreen, etc. It gets a mounted spare wheel under the boot. In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,866 in length and 1,902mm in width and 1,834mm in height that makes it longer and slightly taller than the Toyota Fortuner.  It offers the best-in-class ground clearance of 241mm.

Interior

The dual-tone beige and black interior of the SUV feels very spacious and airy. It isn’t the most premium and attractive cabin in its league, but a decent one. There is a slightly small instrument cluster with Camaro-inspired twin-pod layout and a MID in the middle. It also gets a three-spoke steering wheel with mounted audio and cruise control, a large seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink, rear parking camera display, climate control system and several other comfort and connectivity features. The SUV comes with a seven-seat configuration, and leather seat upholstery. The driver seat gets a six-way power adjustment system. With a wheelbase of 2,845mm, it offers ample legroom and headroom for second and last row passengers.

Engine & Transmission

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is powered by a 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that puts out a maximum power of 200bhp at 3,600rpm, while yielding a peak torque of 500Nm at 2,000rpm. This engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, coupled with RWD (rear-wheel drive) system.

Performance and Handling

The refinement levels of the SUV’s 2.8-litre Duramax engine are better than most of its rivals. It’s quick and quiet. Though, it gets a bit noisy at high speeds. The automatic gearbox is well-tuned, and shifts smoothly. The vehicle remains composed even on uneven roads, thanks to its stiffer suspension. The high speed stability is quite impressive, and body roll isn’t an issue.  

Braking System

In order to control and gear the hefty body-built of the SUV, Chevrolet offers a robust braking system on the vehicle. Advanced braking mechanism such as anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control, hill descent control, panic brake assist, hill start assist, cornering brake control and traction control system strengthen braking capabilities of the car. The all-round ventilated disc brakes also perform well.

Mileage

The 2776 cc Diesel - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 8 kmpl in city and 11 kmpl on highways.

Safety Features

This seven-seater SUV isn’t only a brilliant off-road performer, it’s safe too. Features like dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) assure a safe and confidence-inspiring drive. What further improves its safety quotient are hill descent control, panic brake assist, hill start assist, cornering brake control, electronic stability control and traction control system.

Verdict

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a proper off-road SUV with aggressive styling, generous cabin space and efficient engine. It has a commanding road presence, and drives swiftly on urban roads. Though, it doesn’t offer four-wheel drive and manual gearbox options.

Competition

The Chevrolet Trailblazer competes against the Ford Endeavour, Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Ssanyong Rexton.

Pros

1. Bold and aggressive styling
2. Robust body-built
3. Plenty of cabin space
4. Engine performance
5. Quick and responsive gearshift

Cons

1. Low-speed ride quality
2. No manual gearbox option
3. No all-wheel drive option