Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer: What’s the Difference?
The Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer are two of the midsize SUV offerings from Chevrolet. Their names are nearly identical, but there’s a lot of difference between the two vehicles. The differentiations are significant, despite the naming choices telling us otherwise. So what’s the difference between the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer?
Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer size differences
Firstly, the Blazer is the larger of the two models by a decently-sized margin. On both the interior and exterior, it’s the larger vehicle. Passengers will sit more comfortably inside the spacious Blazer than its little brother. The Trailblazer’s rear seat can fold down to make more cargo space, but it isn’t enough to eclipse the Blazer. The Blazer maintains more cargo space by a lot, making it a far more spacious interior option.
| Specification | 2021 Chevy Blazer | 2021 Chevy Trailblazer |
| Headroom (front/rear) | 39.8-in./38.9-in. | 40 in./38.4 in. |
| Legroom (front/rear) | 41 in./39.4 in. | 40.9 in./39.4 in. |
| Shoulder room (front/rear) | 59.1 in./58.6 in. | 55.4 in./53.8 in. |
| Hip room (front/rear) | 55.6 in./54.2 in. | 52.3 in./45.7 in. |
| Cargo space | Up to 64.2 cubic feet | Up to 54.4 cubic feet |
| Wheelbase | 112.7 in. | 103.9 in. |
| Length | 191.4 in. | 173.5 in. |
| Width | 76.7 in. | 71.2 in. |
| Height | 67 in. | 65.2 in. |
The Blazer is more powerful
The larger Blazer SUV is more powerful than the Trailblazer, and it isn’t particularly close. Firstly, it comes with three different engine options, the biggest of which is a 3.6-liter V6. The most powerful engine offered in the Trailblazer is an Ecotec 1.3-liter turbo. The two engines provide 308 and 155 horsepower, respectively, giving the Blazer a very comfortable lead.
The Blazer can tow up to 4,500 pounds, and the Trailblazer can only tow 1,000 pounds. The size and power of the Blazer make it a much better option if you’re looking for space, towing capacity, or just a fun drive. The speed of the vehicle will make it a more enjoyable drive.
The Chevy Trailblazer gets much better gas mileage
It might be evident due to the smaller, less powerful engine, but the Trailblazer’s fuel economy is significantly better. The two engines available for the smaller SUV get 28 city/31 highway and 29 city/33 highway mpg. Although those aren’t the most eco-friendly numbers for an SUV, they’re certainly better than the Blazer.
The Blazer’s best gas mileage comes with the 2.0-liter turbo I4 engine. The 230 horsepower engine gets up to 21 city and 28 highway mpg. The worst showing of the three comes from the V6, which gets just 19 city and 26 highway mpg. The Trailblazer might not be as powerful, but it’ll save you more money on fuel.
Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer have different interior features
The interiors of the two SUVs look alike, but the technology and included features are vastly different. The Chevy Blazer gets perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. Including the heated steering wheel, the cabin of the Blazer is much more luxurious and comfortable than its little brother.
The Trailblazer, however, gets standard Chevy Safety Assist not found standard in Blazer models. Additionally, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto give the Trailblazer an advantage. The flat-folding front passenger seat also allows for a ton of cargo space despite the more petite body and fuel efficiency.
The Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer are each excellent options that mostly only share their names. The two are considerably different in size and offer lots of various features. Those looking for a more spacious, luxurious, and powerful SUV should go with the Chevy Blazer. If you need a fuel-efficient compact SUV with some excellent extras, the Trailblazer is a worthy option.
