The 2010 Trailblazer continues to fall short of top competitors in reliability, interior materials and -- unless you're talking about the powerful SS model -- performance. "After factoring in the inevitable incentives that accompany the TrailBlazer, it has a decent amount of equipment and is somewhat of a good value, but the interior and the driving experience place it at the bottom of its class," says Car and Driver. "The SS model transcends its plebeian roots, however, and will provide some serious acceleration, handling, and grins." Due to poor sales and plant closings, the TrailBlazer is expected to be discontinued after this model year
LT models come with a 4.2-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, while SS models get a 6.0-liter V8. Both engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. An optional 5.3-liter V8 engine has been dropped for 2009. According to the EPA, 2WD LT models achieve 14/20 mpg city/highway, while 2WD SS models achieve 12/16.
"LT versions have good power for most situations. SS models are muscular from any speed, lending credence to Chevy's 5.7-second 0-60-mph claim. On all, the transmission is generally smooth, though sometimes coaxing a downshift takes a deep stab of the throttle.""When tromping on the gas, few TrailBlazer drivers are likely to realize the source of power is an inline-six-cylinder rather than a V-8. Not only is engine sound barely discernible (except when pushed really hard), but road noise is also virtually absent. Acceleration is undeniably stronger with the V-8, but it's not a dramatic difference." "Most buyers will find the standard inline-6 engine adequate, but it's definitely lacking in low-end torque. The optional V8 is more satisfying in this regard, though it feels like a bit too much engine for the softly tuned chassis."
"LT versions have good power for most situations. SS models are muscular from any speed, lending credence to Chevy's 5.7-second 0-60-mph claim. On all, the transmission is generally smooth, though sometimes coaxing a downshift takes a deep stab of the throttle.""When tromping on the gas, few TrailBlazer drivers are likely to realize the source of power is an inline-six-cylinder rather than a V-8. Not only is engine sound barely discernible (except when pushed really hard), but road noise is also virtually absent. Acceleration is undeniably stronger with the V-8, but it's not a dramatic difference." "Most buyers will find the standard inline-6 engine adequate, but it's definitely lacking in low-end torque. The optional V8 is more satisfying in this regard, though it feels like a bit too much engine for the softly tuned chassis."
