The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer remains a practical and stylish subcompact SUV, although it faces tough competition from rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, VW Taos, and Ford Bronco Sport. Surprisingly, its biggest competition might come from its own Chevy dealer lot in the form of the Chevrolet Trax. While the Trailblazer offers attractive features like a roomy back seat and a Google-based infotainment system, the Trax is a more compelling package with better cargo and passenger space, a more engaging driving experience, and a lower starting price.
Interior & Technology
The Trailblazer’s interior design and styling have been improved since the 2024 model year, resembling other Chevy crossovers. The black plastic switchgear doesn’t feel cheap, and the interior plastics are adorned with interesting textures and colorful trim pieces. The Activ trim even features yellow stitching and standard heated front seats and steering wheel. The digital displays are standard across the lineup, including an 11-inch central infotainment touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument panel. The menu icons remain docked on the left side of the screen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Additionally, a digital rearview mirror comes standard.
Passenger & Cargo Space
Although the Trailblazer is one of the larger subcompact SUVs on the outside, its interior space may not live up to its size. However, sitting in the back seat is comfortable with 39.4 inches of rear legroom. The cargo space measures 25.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.3 cubic feet with the seats down, putting it just behind the 2024 Equinox in terms of maximum utility. However, the Trax offers more space with the seats up. One unique feature of the Trailblazer is its fold-flat front passenger seat, providing added versatility.
Performance & Fuel Economy
The Trailblazer offers two engine options: a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine. The base engine produces 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the upgraded engine delivers 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The 1.2-liter engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is only available with front-wheel drive, while the 1.3-liter engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and can be equipped with all-wheel drive. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.2-liter engine achieves 30 mpg combined, while the 1.3-liter engine gets 31 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and slightly less with all-wheel drive.
What it’s like to drive
While the Trailblazer may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive, it offers a comfortable and sound driving experience. The three-cylinder engines lack excitement and the acceleration is slow, especially with the base engine and its CVT. The handling and steering are not particularly engaging, but the Trailblazer’s comfort-tuned suspension provides a smooth ride and handles rough city streets well. However, the Trax and competitors like the Mazda CX-30 offer sharper and more engaging driving experiences.
Pricing & Trim Levels
The base LS trim of the 2025 Trailblazer starts at $24,395 and comes with the 1.2-liter engine and CVT. The LS trim with the 1.3-liter engine costs $24,790, while the LS AWD with the 1.3-liter engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission starts at $26,395. The higher trims include the Activ and RS, both equipped with the 1.3-liter engine as standard. The Activ offers a rugged vibe with unique suspension tuning and sport terrain tires, while the RS provides a sporty look with high-gloss black grille and wheels.
Crash Ratings & Safety Features
The Trailblazer comes with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and a teen driver system. Additional features like blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning, and rear parking sensors are available. The 2025 model has not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA yet, but the 2024 model received top scores for crashworthiness and overall crash rating. It’s expected that the 2025 Trailblazer will maintain its high safety ratings.
In conclusion, the 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a practical and stylish option in the subcompact SUV segment. While it has its merits with its attractive interior, excellent standard infotainment tech, affordability, and good rear legroom, it faces tough competition from its rivals and even from the Chevrolet Trax. Overall, there may be better options available in the segment, including from Chevrolet itself.
