It may share the same model name as its predecessor, but the all-new Chevrolet Trailblazer has absolutely nothing in common with its namesake. In fact, they don’t just have different specs and target markets, they are absolute polar opposites—from diesel to gas, from midsize to compact size, from 7-seater to 5-seater, from pickup-based ladder-frame chassis to car-based monocoque chassis, from Thai-made regional model to Korea-made global model, from mid-range market positioning to premium positioning. Every major aspect of the Trailblazer—its very essence—has been turned around.
As mentioned, the new Trailblazer is manufactured at the General Motors Incheon plant in South Korea. Unlike the previous Trailblazer that was primarily a Southeast Asian model, the new one is built on a global GM platform and is the exact same model available in major markets like North America, South Korea, and China. The new Chevy Trailblazer premium compact crossover will be available in two variants—LT (₱1,488,888) and Premier (₱1,621,888)—putting it at a substantially lower price point than its larger predecessor, which ranged from P1.7 million to just under P2 million.
“We are proud to introduce the all-new 2022 Chevy Trailblazer to the Philippine market,” says Atty. Albert B. Arcilla, President and CEO of Chevrolet Philippines–TCCCI. “The Trailblazer is a continuation of the new design language for Chevy’s crossover family and extends our momentum into one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments. It continues the SUV heritage of the revered nameplate and is now loaded with safety and convenience features that anticipate the needs of today’s most discerning customers,” Arcilla adds.
The Chevy Trailblazer is a five-door premium compact SUV that showcases a Camaro-inspired front fascia with LED Intellibeam headlamps, LED DRLs, and LED fog lamps. Taking center stage is Chevrolet’s signature dual-port grille, which gives its face a multilayered, dimensional appearance. The accent bar is integrated with the headlamps, helping to visually widen its stance, while a simulated front skid plate adds a sense of strength.
The side profile includes taut character lines, a sleek roofline, and a bold hood shape to accentuate its youthful character. Meanwhile, the rear features an LED high-mount stop lamp, a hands-free power liftgate, LED taillamps, a rear camera, and sensors.
The eight exterior color options are Summit White, Black Meet Kettle Metallic, Crimson Metallic, Blue Glow Metallic, Vivid Metallic, Mahogany Red Metallic, Abalone White Tri-coat, and Satin Steel Grey Metallic. Rounding off the exterior are 17-inch alloy wheels.
“The Trailblazer doesn’t simply let customers express their personal style, it encourages it,” says Stuart Norris, design director of global Chevrolet compact SUVs. “Its design is bold, confident, and full of personality.”
Under the hood of the new Trailblazer is GM’s next-gen Euro IV E-Turbo engine. The 1.3-liter inline 3-cylinder DOHC turbocharged powerplant delivers 155hp @ 5,600rpm and 236Nm of torque between 1,600rpm and 4,000rpm.
High-tech highlights include an active thermal management system that maintains optimum engine and transmission temperature through various sensors; a variable displacement oil pump that ensures oil delivery is optimized depending on the engine load; and an electric water pump that is independent from the engine and eliminates parasitic drag.
Channeling supercar tech are active grille shutters that close on the highway when engine-cooling needs are reduced, improving aerodynamics. An engine start/stop system that helps to save fuel and reduces emissions is also available. Power is delivered to the front wheels via Hydramatic VT40 Continuously Variable Transmission. This new-generation lightweight 6-speed CVT comes equipped with a multi-drive-mode system to match road conditions.
Driver aids that keep things in check are Enhanced Stability Control; ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Start Assist, Cornering Brake Control, Roll Over Protection, and Engine Drag Control. The Chevy Trailblazer also comes with a host of brake assist systems such as Brake Pre-Fill; Fading Brake Assist (FBA); and Panic Brake Assist (PBA). Mini Spare Detection automatically detects if an emergency or spare tire is in use. This system adjusts the brakeforce, torque and power applied on the much narrower spare tire. The parking brake is actuated electronically.
To assist with enthusiastic cornering, the Torque Vectoring by Brakes (TVBB) system brakes the inside wheel during a turn. Light brake force is applied to the front inside wheel as soon as it begins to lose grip, sending more engine torque to the outside wheel that has more grip.
Inside, drivers will be greeted by a heated, leather-wrapped, steering wheel with cruise and audio controls. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) is equipped standard, as well as a Push Button starter.
The jet-black leather interior is accented by white stitching all around. Front seats are heated as well. The centerpiece of the cockpit is the 8” MyLink with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Trailblazer is equipped with an automatic HVAC with Air Moisture Sensor and AC Cabin Pollen Filter.
The second row seats split-fold 60/40. The cargo area also features a two-tier cargo floor. Entry to the cabin is effortless thanks to the Passive Entry System.
The new Trailblazer is equipped with 3-point seatbelts for all five occupants; six airbags (driver, front passenger, side and curtain airbags); 4-eye rear sensors with a camera; a tire pressure monitoring system and tire-fill alert.
Cutting-edge driver assistance systems often found on luxury models are offered: Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Rear Camera, Rear Park Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (to make sure that drivers and pedestrians are given an added layer of protection from untoward incidents).
The all-new Trailblazer is now available at all Chevrolet dealerships nationwide. It comes with a 5-year warranty, automatic enrollment to the 24/7 Chevrolet Roadside Assistance for three years, and immediate access to the 24/7 Chevy Hotline for convenient vehicle service and ownership needs.