The Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to define the small SUV category with its blend of style, versatility, and technology. For those considering this popular crossover, understanding how the model has evolved over recent years provides valuable insight. This comprehensive comparison examines the key differences between the models, helping you determine which version best suits your needs.

What’s New for 2026

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer builds upon the solid foundation of previous models while introducing several refinements that enhance its appeal. Though not a complete redesign, the new model features noteworthy updates that set it apart from its predecessors.

Exterior Enhancements

The new model maintains its bold stance while introducing fresh styling elements:

• Two new exterior colours: White Sand and Apex Red
• Refreshed front fascia on select trims
• Updated wheel designs across the lineup
• Sleek two-tone roofline option continues on ACTIV and RS trims
• Refined exterior accents that enhance its modern appearance

Technology Upgrades

Inside, the Trailblazer offers enhanced technology features:

• Larger 11-inch diagonal colour touch-screen (up from 8-inch in previous years)
• 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Centre for improved visibility
• Advanced connectivity options with improved smartphone integration
• Enhanced voice recognition capabilities
• Updated infotainment interface for more intuitive operation

Performance Refinements

Under the hood, this SUV continues with proven powertrain options:

• Base ECOTEC® 1.2L Turbo engine (137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft of torque)
• Available ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine (155 horsepower, 174 lb-ft of torque)
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with 1.2L FWD configuration
• Nine-speed automatic transmission with 1.3L AWD configuration
• Refined suspension tuning for improved ride quality

Interior Comfort

The cabin of the Trailblazer offers several comfort enhancements:

• Improved seating materials for increased durability
• Enhanced acoustic insulation for a quieter ride
• Refined interior trim pieces with premium touches
• Reconfigured storage options for improved practicality
• Hands-free power programmable liftgate on RS trim

The 2025 Trailblazer: A Step Forward

This Chevrolet Trailblazer represented a significant evolution in the model’s development, introducing several features that carried forward to the latest model while establishing its own distinct identity.

Exterior Design

The Trailblazer featured a bold, athletic appearance:

• Distinctive front grille design with integrated lighting
• Sporty profile with sculpted body lines
• Available two-tone roof on select trims
• 17-inch to 19-inch wheel options, depending on trim
• Trim-specific exterior accents and badging

Technology Integration

Technology took center stage:

• Available infotainment system with touchscreen interface
• Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available wireless charging pad
• Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin
• Enhanced driver information display

Powertrain Options

This model offered the same engine options as the new model:

• 1.2L Turbo engine with front-wheel drive
• 1.3L Turbo engine with available all-wheel drive
• CVT transmission with 1.2L engine
• Nine-speed automatic with 1.3L AWD configuration
• Selectable drive modes on AWD models

Interior Features

The interior of the Trailblazer balanced functionality with comfort:

• Available heated front seats and steering wheel
• Configurable cargo area with fold-flat front passenger seat
• Available Evotex seating surfaces on premium trims
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat
• Available remote start system

Looking Back at the 2024 Trailblazer

This Chevrolet Trailblazer established many of the features and capabilities that would evolve in subsequent model years, serving as the foundation for later improvements.

Design Elements

The Trailblazer featured a distinctive appearance with these key design elements:

• Bold front fascia with Chevrolet signature lighting
• Athletic stance with pronounced wheel arches
• More conservative colour options compared to later models
• Available roof rails for added utility
• LED lighting package available on select trims

Performance Capabilities

The Trailblazer delivered capability through these performance features:

• Introduction of the turbocharged engine lineup
• Available all-wheel drive system
• Tuned suspension for comfortable daily driving
• ACTIV trim with off-road-oriented suspension tuning
• Respectable fuel economy ratings across the lineup

Technology Features

Technology in this model focused on practical applications:

• Standard touchscreen infotainment system
• Available SiriusXM satellite radio
• Multiple USB ports for device connectivity
• Standard Chevrolet Safety Assist package
• Available premium audio system

Comfort and Convenience

The Trailblazer emphasized these comfort and convenience features:

• Available keyless entry and push-button start
• Heated front seats on upper trims
• Manual climate control with an available automatic option
• Standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available power-adjustable driver seat

Side-by-Side Comparison: Three Model Years

Safety Technology Evolution

Safety features have seen consistent improvement across these three model years:

2026 Trailblazer

• Enhanced Chevrolet Safety Assist package
• Available Adaptive Cruise Control
• Improved pedestrian detection capabilities
• Enhanced automatic emergency braking effectiveness
• Available Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert

2025 Trailblazer

• Standard Chevrolet Safety Assist on all trims
• Available Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert on upper trims
• Rear Park Assist available
• Following Distance Indicator

2024 Trailblazer

• Introduction of basic Chevrolet Safety Assist features
• Available blind spot monitoring
• Standard HD Rear Vision Camera
• Teen Driver technology
• 10 standard airbags

Interior Technology Comparison

In-cabin technology has advanced noticeably:

2026 Trailblazer

• 11-inch diagonal touchscreen infotainment system
• 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Centre
• Enhanced connectivity features
• Improved voice command functionality
• More intuitive user interface

2025 Trailblazer

• Touchscreen infotainment system
• Digital driver information display
• Wireless smartphone projection capabilities
• Multiple USB ports throughout
• Available wireless charging

2024 Trailblazer

• Smaller touchscreen interface
• Basic driver information display
• Wired smartphone connectivity
• Limited USB ports
• Basic voice command functionality

Exterior Design Progression

The exterior design has evolved strategically:

2026 Trailblazer

• Two new exterior colours (White Sand and Apex Red)
• Refined front fascia with updated lighting signature
• Enhanced wheel designs across the lineup
• Streamlined body accents
• More premium appearance

2025 Trailblazer

• Bold front end styling with integrated LED lighting
• Available contrasting roof colours
• Aerodynamic enhancements for improved efficiency
• Body-coloured or chrome accents depending on trim
• Multiple wheel designs from 17-inch to 19-inch

2024 Trailblazer

• Original design language with distinctive front end
• More limited exterior colour palette
• Standard 17-inch wheels on base models
• Less pronounced character lines
• Basic lighting package on entry-level trims

Trim Level Comparison

The trim structure has remained consistent while adding features:

2026 Trailblazer Trims

• LS: 17-inch Silver-painted aluminum wheels, 11-inch touchscreen
• LT: Adds heated seats, heated steering wheel, roof rails
• ACTIV: Off-road suspension, skid plate, two-tone roof option
• RS: 19-inch wheels, hands-free liftgate, flat-bottom steering wheel

2025 Trailblazer Trims

• LS: Basic features with 1.2L turbo engine
• LT: Added comfort features and available 1.3L engine
• ACTIV: Off-road oriented with standard AWD
• RS: Sport-focused with unique styling elements

2024 Trailblazer Trims

• LS: Entry-level trim with essential features
• LT: Mid-level with enhanced comfort features
• ACTIV: Introduction of the adventure-oriented model
• RS: Sport-styled variant with distinctive details

Cargo and Practicality Across Models

The Trailblazer has maintained consistent cargo capacity throughout these model years:

• All three model years offer approximately 717 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats
• Maximum cargo capacity expands to around 1,541 litres with rear seats folded
• Standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats across all model years
• Fold-flat front passenger seat for accommodating longer items
• Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin

Which Trailblazer is for You? 

The Chevrolet Trailblazer has evolved thoughtfully over these three model years, maintaining its core strengths while adding refinements and technology enhancements that improve the ownership experience. Whether choosing the latest model with its updated technology or considering an older model, the Trailblazer continues to deliver the style, versatility, and value that have made it a standout in the small SUV segment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most significant change between the 2024 and 2026 Trailblazer models?

• The most significant evolution is the technology upgrade. The new model features an 11-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch driver display, compared to the smaller screens in the older model, along with enhanced connectivity and an improved user interface.

Does the 2026 Trailblazer offer better fuel efficiency than previous years?

• Fuel efficiency remains similar across all three model years, with the 1.2L engine delivering approximately 7.8 L/100 km combined and the 1.3L AWD rated at around 8.7 L/100 km combined.

Which model year introduced the ACTIV trim to the Trailblazer lineup?

• The ACTIV trim was introduced before the oldest model year and has been refined over subsequent years with enhanced off-road capability and styling elements.

Are there any significant differences in towing capacity between model years?

• Towing capacity has remained consistent at approximately 1,000 lbs when properly equipped across all three model years.

Which Trailblazer model year offers the best value?

• The middle model offers an excellent balance of features and technology while potentially being available at more competitive pricing than the newer new model, making it an attractive value proposition.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.