2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Review
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer enters the crossover market with a unique style and a competitive starting price of $19,995. This small SUV stands out with its all-three-cylinder engine lineup, raising expectations regarding fuel efficiency and performance.
Engine Options and Performance
Despite its promising small three-cylinder engines—less common in the automotive industry, where four-cylinders are standard—the Trailblazer’s fuel economy figures may not live up to the hype. The entry-level 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder generates 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. According to EPA estimations, it offers 28 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and a combined 29 mpg. These numbers align with or fall short of competitors like the more potent Honda CR-V and even Chevy’s own Equinox.
Power and Efficiency Upgrades
For those seeking enhanced power and efficiency, the optional 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine may be a better choice. This engine delivers 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, also mated with a CVT and front-wheel drive. In this setup, the Trailblazer achieves 29 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. Furthermore, this larger engine permits an all-wheel drive option, which switches the CVT for a nine-speed automatic transmission. However, opting for all-wheel drive results in reduced fuel economy, bringing it down to 26 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
Fuel Economy Comparison
The Trailblazer’s fuel economy figures are comparable to those of the 2021 Kia Seltos (29 city/34 highway/31 combined mpg) and slightly outperform others in the same segment. For instance, the stylish 2020 Mazda CX-30 offers 25 city/33 highway/28 combined mpg, while the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport and the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek have ratings of 25/32/28 mpg and 27/33/30 mpg respectively.
Conclusion
Interestingly, Chevrolet’s range of small crossovers reveals a trend where larger models may offer equal or better fuel economy compared to smaller counterparts, leading to some unexpected results. The Trailblazer barely surpasses the subcompact Trax, which is expected to be the most fuel-efficient due to its smaller size. Meanwhile, the Equinox, being compact, matches the Trailblazer’s fuel economy despite its greater size and power. Overall, while the unconventional three-cylinder engine lineup is intriguing, it ultimately provides typical fuel economy for its class.
