2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer Review։ 5 Important Thing You Need To Know About The 2024 Refresh

The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer AWD ACTIV is a subcompact SUV with a surprising amount of muscle for its size. The turbocharged engine offers decent pep for city driving, while the AWD gives you more control over the roads and trails.

Chevrolet made a big splash for the 2024 model year with a second-generation Trax that's much more appealing than the original (despite the lack of optional all-wheel drive) and still offered at a very competitive price, which is a good thing in these times of inflation. Some may think that its arrival cast a shadow over Chevrolet’s other subcompact crossover, the Trailblazer, which I am test-driving this week and taking on vacation. But the Trailblazer also got a nice facelift for 2024. While Hyundai Kona and the Subaru Crosstrek are popular redesigned competitors, the 2024 Blazer may be a good buy for you with some great advantages.

You know, the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer isn't known for off-road thrills, unlike its namesake. It's a city dweller, a smaller version of the Chevy Blazer. It comes with two turbocharged 3-cylinder engines, offering decent acceleration.

Front-wheel-drive models get a CVT, while all-wheel-drive ones get a smoother 9-speed automatic. It might not be the most fuel-efficient or affordable option, but it offers the biggest infotainment screen in its class. In fact, the aesthetically placed infotainment screen was the first thing, which attracted my attention as I stepped in the car. The Trailblazer makes good use of its size inside, with a front passenger seat that folds flat for extra cargo space. This Chevy might be a good fit for young adults.

I am going to make this review a little different and discuss five important things you need to know about the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer.

1. Trims and Pricing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer's lineup comes in four trims: LS, LT, ACTIV (slightly off-road focused) and RS (sportier looking). All-wheel drive is optional with the first two and standard with the second two. Each of the variants offers new alloy wheel designs. The sporty RS (in blue in the images) sees the diameter of its rims increased to 19 inches.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer starts at a competitive $24,395 for the base LS trim. This price goes up depending on the features you choose. Stepping up to the LT trim adds a bit more for $25,595. Adventurers will find the ACTIV trim, with its all-wheel drive and off-road styling, priced at $28,395. The sporty RS trim also comes in at $28,395. So, whether you prioritize affordability or want extra capability, the Trailblazer offers a trim level to match your budget and needs.

Although the ACTIV trim is offered at $28,700 MSRP, the total vehicle price reaches $34,670 with sunroof, convenience package, adaptive cruise, driver confidence package, and other options included.

So, is it a good buy? Sure, the updated Trailblazer has a number of nice things going for it, including design, tech, and cargo.

2. No engine surprises for the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

In 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer sticks with its two turbocharged three-cylinder options. The base 1.2-liter generates 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, its power limitations become evident when pushing it. From what I understand for the 1.2-liter engine the fuel economy is a decent 29 MPG.

The larger 1.3-liter engine offers a modest bump to 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive models retain the CVT, while all-wheel drive variants get a more refined nine-speed automatic. Fuel consumption for the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer's 1.3-liter engine, which came with my AWD ACTIV trim is 27 MPG combined and 26/29 MPG city/highway respectively.

3. The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer shines in cargo versatility.

One of the strengths of the Chevrolet Trailblazer is its versatility when it comes to carrying luggage or equipment. Its trunk offers a generous 716 liters of space, easily expanding to 1,540 liters with the rear seats folded down. A two-tier cargo floor adds flexibility, while the unique folding front passenger seat accommodates items up to 8.5 feet long. And for those needing to haul more, the Trailblazer can tow up to 1,000 pounds, surprising for its size.

Optional Swedish-made Thule roof side rails provide additional cargo capacity for outdoor adventures.

4. The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a significantly upgraded interior and big screens.

The most notable change is inside the Trailblazer. The standard central touchscreen has grown to 11 inches and is joined by an 8-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, resulting in a decidedly modern presentation.

A standout feature is the new 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a substantial increase from the previous model. Complementing this is an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, giving the Trailblazer a modern and sophisticated look. Chevrolet's infotainment system is generally user-friendly, but if you prefer your smartphone, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wirelessly compatible. No more fumbling for USB cords.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer's interior is a practical and comfortable space. While it lacks the flair of the exterior, it's well-designed and spacious. The driving position is elevated, offering a commanding view of the road. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, making it a comfortable ride for adults.

Chevrolet has focused on functionality with durable materials throughout the cabin. While the base model relies heavily on black plastic, it's textured to avoid a cheap look. Higher trims introduce color accents and chrome details for a more upscale feel. Cargo space is generous for the segment, and the flat-folding rear seats maximize utility.

A unique feature is the folding front passenger seat, allowing for exceptionally long items to be carried.

5. The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer receives a significant exterior refresh.

Chevrolet has given the Trailblazer a bolder and more modern look in 2024. The front fascia is completely redesigned with narrower, sharper headlights and a new grille design. The lower bumper features a wider, trapezoidal opening for a more aggressive stance.  

Each trim level boasts its own unique styling. The RS trim, for example, gets a sportier look with blacked-out accents, a mesh grille, and dual chrome exhaust tips. Meanwhile, the Activ trim maintains its rugged appearance with off-road-inspired styling cues.  

New exterior color options, including Copper Harbor Metallic and Cacti Green, add a fresh touch to the Trailblazer's palette.

How does the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer Ride?

The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer's ride is pretty smooth and decent. It handles well for a small SUV, but it can be slightly rough over harsh roads. 

In my driving experience, I felt that the Trailblazer has a rigid structure and responsive steering that make commuting feel easy. It also has good suspension and doesn't roll much when turning. 

The Trailblazer handles curves well. You may see some other reviewers feel the handling is clumsy, but I disagree. After I got used to the vehicle the handling is great. It also has quick steering and good body control, which makes it feel more responsive and nimble around town.

My overall impression is that the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers predictable handling, making it a suitable choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, this subcompact SUV strikes a balance between comfort and agility. With its refreshed exterior, upgraded interior, and practical features, the Trailblazer positions itself as a strong contender in the competitive subcompact SUV segment.

Have you driven a Trailblazer? Please, share your thoughts about this vehicle in the comments section below.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.