2012 Chevrolet Trailblazer 3.6L V6 6AT AWD (239 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Chevrolet introduced the Trailblazer’s second generation on specific markets outside the U.S., and it was mainly a sibling for Isuzu’s MU-X and a spin-off from the Chevrolet Colorado.

Starting with the second generation, the automaker restyled the nameplate by introducing the Trailblazer moniker. Moreover, the bow-tie brand re-imagined the whole concept of this vehicle. While its predecessor was built on top of the GMT360/GMT370 platform, the 2012 model was based on a modified GMT31XX chassis. Moreover, it sported a shorter wheelbase and was a mix between a crossover and an SUV.

The vehicle’s look was tamed down a bit. It didn’t have the same imposing front fascia but one that could’ve been mistaken for one from a crossover. But its enlarged front and rear fenders gave the Trailblazer a muscular presence. In addition, the up kick on the beltline behind the rear doors and the small window in the trunk area didn’t resemble anything from the KC-based TrailBlazer.

Inside, the Trailblazer was available with three rows of seats, with the middle and last rows being foldable. But unfortunately, since the vehicle was built on a pickup chassis, it had a tall loading area on the back and was also difficult to climb inside. At least, the carmaker offered side steps for it. At the front, the bucket seats offered some side support, and a center console separated them with a storage compartment and hosted the gear lever. The instrument cluster featured two large dials and an LCD between them.

Underneath the hood, Chevrolet offered the Trailblazer with a choice of gasoline and diesel engines, ranging between 150 PS (148 hp) and 240 PS (238 hp).