Chevy Blazer vs Trailblazer: What’s the real difference?

If you’re in the market for a family-friendly Chevy crossover SUV, you’ve probably stumbled upon both the Blazer and the Trailblazer, and now you’re wondering: what’s the real difference between them and which one should you consider? Well, let’s clear that up. Despite their similar names, these two vehicles in the 2024 Chevy SUV lineup have distinct differences that set them apart.

So, how exactly does the Blazer differ from the Trailblazer? And which one should you go for? Let’s dive in and take a closer look.

What’s different between the Chevy Blazer and the Trailblazer?

Well, almost everything. 

One’s a subcompact crossover, while the other sits comfortably in the mid-size category. They’re basically worlds apart in terms of size and price, with a hefty $10k to $20k difference depending on how you configure them.

However, despite their apparent differences, they share some common ground. Both accommodate five passengers, rock that unmistakable Chevy style and proudly display the bow-tie badge.

The Origin of the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer

The source of much confusion surrounding these Chevy SUVs lies in their nameplates. Although they are currently modern, unibody crossover SUVs, their origins can be traced back to rugged truck-based 4X4 SUVs.

• The Blazer’s story kicks off in 1969 with the introduction of the full-size K5 Blazer SUV, built on the sturdy underpinnings of the C/K pickup truck. In 1982, Chevy expanded the Blazer lineup by introducing the smaller, mid-sized S-10 Blazer, which was based on the S-10 pickup truck frame. This version catered to folks who didn’t require the spaciousness of the K5.

• By 1995, Chevy retired the K5 Blazer nameplate, replacing it with the Tahoe, while the smaller SUV continued as the Blazer, dropping the “S-10” designation.

• On the other hand, the Trailblazer name made its debut in 1999 as an upscale trim level of the Chevrolet Blazer. Three years later, it transitioned into its own model. Notably, the body-on-frame TrailBlazer is distinct from the Blazer, which Chevy continued to produce until 2005.

• The Chevrolet Trailblazer eventually made way for the Traverse, with the last Trailblazer rolling off the production line at GM’s Moraine, Ohio, plant in 2008.

• After a hiatus, Chevy brought back both the Blazer and Trailblazer nameplates in 2019 and 2021, respectively. While their names might evoke images of their rugged, truck-like predecessors, the latest iterations of the Blazer and Trailblazer are a whole different breed, thanks to their car-like unibody construction.

Chevy Blazer vs Trailblazer: Price 

We’re scratching our heads over why anyone would want to snag two Trailblazers, but hey, depending on the trim level, you could snag a pair for the price of a single Blazer. As of the 2024 model year, you’re looking at kicking off with just a tad over $24,000 for the base model Trailblazer, while the Blazer starts around $36,000.

Here’s the trim-wise price breakdown for the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer:

• LS: $24,395
• LT: $25,595
• ACTIV: $28,395
• RS: $28,395

And here’s what you’re looking at for the 2024 Chevy Blazer:

• 2LT: $36,795
• 3LT: $40,695
• RS: $44,195
• Premier: $44,195

Now, both these SUVs offer some solid bang for your buck in their respective categories. But aside from the sticker price, the Trailblazer’s lighter frame and smaller engine give it an edge in fuel efficiency, which can mean lower ownership costs in the long run.

Chevy Blazer vs Trailblazer: Dimensions

Exterior 

Both the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer make a statement in their respective classes, drawing inspiration from the bold, muscle-car design language of the Camaro. Up front, you can’t miss the resemblance, with both sporting Chevy’s iconic dual-port signature grille and sleek lighting setups.

However, the Blazer boasts a sweptback profile and wide stance, lending it a performance-oriented appearance. In contrast, the Trailblazer features softer lines and rounded edges, embodying a more traditional small SUV style.

Size is another differentiating factor between the two SUVs. As a mid-size SUV, the Blazer dwarfs the subcompact Trailblazer. Here are the precise exterior dimensions:

2024 Chevy Blazer Exterior Dimensions

• Length: 191.88 inches
• Wheelbase: 113 inches
• Width: 76.7 inches
• Height: 67 inches
• Ground Clearance: 7.5 inches
• Wheel Size: 17- or 18-inch

2024 Chevy Trailblazer Exterior Dimensions 

• Length: 174.07 inches
• Wheelbase: 103.95 inches
• Width: 71.2 inches
• Height: 64.2 inches
• Ground Clearance: 7.5 inches
• Wheel Size: 18- to 21-inch

The Blazer’s imposing stance lends it an impressive presence sure to turn heads. Conversely, the Trailblazer’s compact dimensions make it a standout choice for effortlessly maneuvering through tight parking spots or navigating congested streets.

Interior

It’s interesting to note that the larger vehicle naturally offers more cargo space, but what might catch you off guard is just how roomy the Trailblazer is considering its size. When you look at front and rear headroom, as well as legroom, the numbers are surprisingly similar. In fact, the Trailblazer even edges out the Blazer with an extra 0.2 inches of headroom at the front. Here’s a breakdown of their interior dimensions:

2024 Chevy Blazer Interior Dimensions

• Total Passenger Space:  cubic feet
• Front/Rear Headroom: 39.8/38.6 inches
• Front/Rear Legroom: 41.0/39.6 inches
• Front/Rear Hiproom: 55.6/54.2 inches
• Cargo Volume Behind Second/First Row: 30.5/64.2 cubic feet

2024 Chevy Trailblazer Interior Dimensions

• Total Passenger Space: 98.2 cubic feet
• Front/Rear Headroom: 40.0/38.4 inches
• Front/Rear Legroom: 40.9/39.40 inches
• Front/Rear Hiproom: 52.3/50.4 inches
• Cargo Volume Behind Second/First Row: 25.3/54.4 cubic feet

Both vehicles are definitely versatile, no doubt about that. However, the Trailblazer earns an extra point with its flat-folding front passenger seat, which comes in handy for accommodating extra-long items of up to 8.5 feet in length.

Chevy Trailblazer vs Blazer: Specifications

Powertrain

The Trailblazer is available with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: 1.2-liter and 1.3-liter. While nothing extraordinary, the 1.2-liter seems just right for navigating city streets without any fuss. The 1.3-liter engine on the other hand seems way more potent than its capacity and cylinder count would suggest. Additionally, if you opt for all-wheel drive, you’ll get a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission instead of the typical CVT.

ow, turning to the Blazer, it’s evident that the Camaro not only influenced its design but also its performance. The standard  228-hp engine on the 2024 Blazer performs admirably, but it’s the available 308-hp V-6 that will really get your heart pumping faster. 

Matching the solid power is Blazer’s solid poise and precise handling. The RS variant, in particular, stands out with its specialized suspension and steering calibration. While it’s not a replacement for a pony car, the Blazer earns its reputation as the best-driving SUV in the Chevrolet lineup.

Here is a comparison of the performance specs of both the SUVs:

Chevy Blazer Engine Specs

2.5-liter inline-4 (2019 – 2021)

• Power: 193 horsepower @6,300 rpm
• Torque: 188 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm

2.0-liter inline-4

• Power: 230 horsepower @5,000 rpm
• Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,000 rpm

3.6-liter V6

• Power: 308 horsepower @6,700 rpm
• Torque: 270 lb-ft @5,000 rpm

Chevy Trailblazer Engine Specs

1.2-liter inline-3

• Power: 137 hp @5,000 rpm
• Torque: 162 lb-ft @2,500 rpm

1.3-liter inline-3

• Power: 155 hp @5,600 rpm
• Torque: 174 lb-ft @1,500 rpm

Towing

It’s a no-brainer that the Blazer with its much bigger engine and superior performance has far better towing capability. The Blazer has a maximum towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds compared to the Trailblazer’s 1000 pounds.

Here are the exact powertrain-wise towing capacity numbers of both vehicles:

Blazer Max. Towing Capacity

• 2.0-liter I4: 3,500 lbs
• 3.6-liter V-6:  4500 lbs

Trailblazer Max. Towing

• 1.3L I3:: 1,000 lbs.

Note: Vehicles typically require a towing package to reach their maximum towing capacity.

MPG

One advantage of the Trailblazer’s lower power output is its fuel efficiency, which surpasses that of the Blazer. Interestingly, it’s the Trailblazer’s larger engine which is the more efficient option here.

Here are the exact numbers:

2024 Chevy Trailblazer MPG

2024 Chevy Blazer MPG

Note: Despite the Trailblazer’s efficiency, the Blazer has the upper hand when it comes to covering more distance between fill-ups. This is thanks to its larger fuel tank capacity, ranging from 19.4 to 21.7 gallons, compared to the Trailblazer’s smaller 13.2-gallon reserve.

Chevy Trailblazer vs Blazer: Technology and Entertainment

Both the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer offer state-of-the-art touchscreen infotainment systems, that too as standard. While the Blazer offers a 10.2-inch screen, the Trailblazer surprisingly offers an even bigger 11-inch infotainment unit. Regardless, both systems offer crisp graphics, attractive and easy-to-use interface, as well as snappy responses.

Apart from a high-quality touchscreen infotainment system, both models come loaded with a wide array of other standard features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and more.

The Blazer also comes with wireless charging as a standard feature, while the Trailblazer offers it as an option. Both models, however, have a premium Bose audio system and Wi-Fi hotspot available.

Chevy Trailblazer vs Blazer: Safety

Crash Test Ratings 

Both the Chevy Blazer and the Trailblazer score admirably in crash tests. Both vehicles have received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer also qualified for the IIHS top safety pick plus criteria.

Safety Features

Safety features are no longer considered a luxury but rather a necessity in today’s vehicles. That’s why both the 2024 Chevy Blazer and 2024 Chevy Trailblazer come standard with Chevy Safety Assist

In addition to these standard safety features, both models offer various active safety upgrades, including an adaptive cruise control system. The availability of these features may vary depending on the trim level and package options selected for each vehicle.

Let’s take a look at all the common safety features on both the SUVs:

• Forward collision alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Following distance indicator
• Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert with blind spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control
• Rear parking sensors

Unique to the Blazer, is the available HD surround vision and upgraded automatic emergency braking.

Chevrolet Blazer vs Trailblazer: Which one should you buy?

It’s evident that the Chevrolet Blazer and Trailblazer aren’t directly comparable despite their similar names and appearances. These two crossover SUVs differ significantly in size, purpose, and pricing, making a precise comparison challenging.

Both vehicles hold high rankings in their respective segments, and the ultimate choice depends on your preferences and requirements.

The Blazer stands out if you appreciate distinctive styling and a thrilling driving experience. On the other hand, the Trailblazer shines with its impressive technology offerings for the price and surprisingly spacious cabin given its size.

Let’s break down the pros of each vehicle over the other:

Pros of Blazer over Trailblazer:

• Greater exterior presence and more interior space
• Stronger engines lead to quicker acceleration
• Provides a better driving experience

Pros of Trailblazer over Blazer:

• Significantly lower price point
• Offers better fuel efficiency
• Easier-to-park size

For optimal savings, we suggest opting for a pre-owned model rather than a brand-new one. You can read our detailed guide on the used 2019 model Chevy Blazer and 2021 Chevy Trailblazer.

The expert team at Schumacher Used in New Jersey is also readily available to assist you in discovering the perfect pre-owned Chevy SUV that aligns with your lifestyle. Contact us or directly choose from a large selection of used cars for sale online.