2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer: Five Things to Know
The completely redesigned 2024 Chevrolet Trax is huge for the brand. Despite not offering an AWD option, it proves much more attractive than its predecessor, while prices are still extremely competitive—something many potential customers are sure to notice in these times of inflation.
This new Trax is largely eclipsing Chevrolet’s other small crossover, the Trailblazer, which received a mid-cycle update for 2024. And let’s not forget bestsellers like the Hyundai Kona and Subaru Crosstrek—both fully redesigned, too. Is the 2024 Trailblazer a good buy? Here are five things you need to know about it:
1. Four Trim Levels
Once again, the lineup is split into four trim levels: LS, LT, the adventure-minded Activ and the sportier-looking RS. All-wheel drive is optional with the first two and standard with the other tow.
Each one gets new wheel designs, the top-line RS standing out with larger 19-inch alloys. Two new body colours can be specified including Copper Harbor and the same Cacti Green that we saw on the aforementioned Trax, not to mention the new Corvette E-Ray. A two-tone exterior continues to be available with the Trailblazer Activ and RS.
2. Larger Displays
The most significant change for 2024 can be found inside. The size of the centre touchscreen is increased to 11 inches across all trim levels, while an eight-inch digital instrument cluster faces the driver.
Chevy’s infotainment system is nicely designed and user-friendly, but if you somehow don’t like it, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both still there, and you no longer need to plug your smartphone using a USB cable to access them.
3. Same Engines
It’s business as usual under the hood. Trailblazer customers have a choice of two turbocharged yet underwhelming triple-cylinder engines. The standard 137-horsepower, 1.2-litre unit generates 162 lb-ft. of torque and is mated to a continuously variable transmission. It comes with FWD only and achieves a combined 7.8 L/100 km.
The slightly bigger and more powerful 1.3-litre mill, which produces 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft. of torque, can be had with either the CVT-FWD combo or a nine-speed autobox and AWD. Look for it to burn anywhere between 7.7-8.6 L/100 km of fuel on average, at least based on the official NRC ratings.
4. Versatile Cargo Area
One of the great things about the Chevrolet Trailblazer is its ability to accommodate all sorts of cargo. The 716-litre trunk is quite capacious by small-crossover standards, and it expands to 1,540 litres when folding the rear seats. Additionally, there’s a two-level load floor in the rear, while the front passenger seat folds completely flat, allowing you to fit items up to 2.5 metres (8.5 feet) long.
Need more space? Simply attach a small trailer in the back, as the Trailblazer can tow up to 1,000 lbs.
5. Increased Prices
Price hikes were inevitable, especially in today’s market. Just look at the new Kona and Crosstrek or the refreshed Seltos. In the case of the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer, the base MSRP is now about $2,000 higher. Here are full pricing details (not including freight, PDI and dealer fees):
- LS FWD – $26,699
- LS AWD – $28,699
- LT FWD – $28,499
- LT AWD – $30,499
- Activ – $32,999
- RS – $32,999
Ultimately, is the updated Trailblazer a good buy? Sure, there are many things to like, particularly when it comes to styling, technology and versatility, but overall we at The Car Guide believe the aforementioned competitors—plus the Toyota Corolla Cross and Mazda CX-30—are better alternatives.