Chevrolet Trailblazer RS: A Turbocharged Take on the Compact SUV
The Chevrolet Trailblazer has emerged as a compelling option in the crowded compact SUV segment. With its refreshed styling, modern features, and a focus on value, it aims to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The RS trim, in particular, offers a sportier aesthetic and a more engaging driving experience, largely thanks to its turbocharged engine. This review delves into the details of the Trailblazer RS, focusing on its engine performance, design, interior, technology, and overall value proposition.
Exterior Design: Sporty and Stylish
The Trailblazer RS distinguishes itself with a more aggressive and athletic exterior design. The RS trim features a blacked-out grille with a unique mesh pattern, gloss black badging, and distinctive RS logos. The roof rails are also finished in black, complementing the available two-tone paint options that add a touch of personalization. Larger alloy wheels, typically 18-inch or 19-inch, further enhance the sporty stance.
The overall design of the Trailblazer is modern and angular, with sharp lines and a sculpted hood. LED headlights and taillights provide a premium touch, while the overall proportions give it a more substantial presence than some of its competitors. The RS trim’s visual enhancements successfully elevate the Trailblazer’s appeal, making it stand out from the more conservatively styled base models.
Engine and Performance: Turbocharged Fun
The heart of the Trailblazer RS is its turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine. While the displacement may seem small, the turbocharger helps it punch above its weight. The engine produces a respectable 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This output is sufficient for confident acceleration in most driving situations.
The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs sometimes have a reputation for being uninspiring, Chevrolet has done a decent job of tuning it to work well with the turbocharged engine. The CVT simulates gear changes to provide a more natural feel, and it generally responds promptly to throttle inputs.
The Trailblazer RS offers decent acceleration for daily driving. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost of torque at low to mid-range speeds, making it easy to merge onto highways and navigate city traffic. The engine can get a bit noisy at higher RPMs, but it’s generally well-mannered during normal driving.
The Trailblazer RS is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction in slippery conditions, making it a worthwhile option for those who live in areas with snow or frequent rain.
Fuel Economy: A Strong Point
One of the key advantages of the Trailblazer’s small turbocharged engine is its excellent fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive model is rated at an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive model achieves slightly lower figures but still delivers impressive fuel efficiency.
In real-world driving, the Trailblazer RS lives up to its EPA ratings. It’s easy to achieve combined fuel economy in the low 30s, making it a fuel-efficient choice for daily commutes and longer road trips.
Interior Design and Comfort: Well-Equipped and Spacious
The interior of the Trailblazer RS is well-designed and surprisingly spacious for a compact SUV. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system.
The RS trim features unique interior accents, such as red stitching and RS logos on the seats. The seats themselves are comfortable and supportive, providing adequate cushioning for long drives. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for adults, making it a practical choice for families.
The Trailblazer also offers a generous amount of cargo space. With the rear seats up, there’s plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area significantly, allowing you to carry larger items.
Technology and Features: Modern and Connected
The Trailblazer RS comes standard with a range of modern technology features. The infotainment system is centered around a user-friendly touchscreen display that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car’s infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation.
Other available technology features include a wireless charging pad, a Bose premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The Trailblazer also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. Adaptive cruise control is also available as an option.
Ride and Handling: Comfortable and Composed
The Trailblazer RS offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and pleasant driving experience. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
While the Trailblazer RS isn’t a sports car, it handles reasonably well for a compact SUV. The body roll is well-controlled in corners, and the car feels stable and planted. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in slippery conditions.
Value Proposition: Competitive and Appealing
The Chevrolet Trailblazer RS offers a strong value proposition in the compact SUV segment. It combines a stylish design, a fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, a spacious interior, and a range of modern technology features at a competitive price point. The RS trim adds a touch of sportiness and exclusivity, making it an appealing choice for buyers who want a more distinctive SUV.
Potential Drawbacks
- Engine Noise: The three-cylinder engine can become a bit noisy at higher RPMs.
- CVT Transmission: While the CVT is well-tuned, some drivers may prefer a traditional automatic transmission.
- Interior Material Quality: While the interior design is good, some of the materials feel a bit low-rent compared to some competitors.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Trailblazer RS is a compelling option in the compact SUV segment. Its turbocharged engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, while its sporty design and modern features make it stand out from the crowd. The spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a practical choice for families and commuters alike. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the Trailblazer RS offers a strong value proposition and is well worth considering for anyone in the market for a compact SUV. It successfully blends style, practicality, and technology into a well-rounded package.
