The Chevrolet Trailblazer has established itself as a versatile compact SUV in today’s market, with its available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system being a significant selling point for many drivers. This advanced drivetrain option transforms the Trailblazer from a capable urban runabout into a confidence-inspiring vehicle ready to tackle varying road conditions and weather challenges. But what exactly is the AWD system in the Chevy Trailblazer, and how does it work?

The Selectable AWD System

Unlike some all-wheel drive systems that remain permanently engaged, the Trailblazer features a selectable AWD system that puts control in the driver’s hands. This intelligent system allows drivers to switch between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive modes as conditions demand, combining the best of both worlds—fuel efficiency when you need it and enhanced traction when conditions deteriorate.

The selectable nature of the system is managed through a simple driver-activated control, allowing for on-demand engagement. When activated, the AWD system constantly monitors all four wheels, automatically adjusting torque distribution to maximize traction in challenging situations like rain, sleet, or snow. This responsive system ensures power is delivered where it’s needed most, helping maintain stability and control.

Powertrain Differences with AWD

Opting for the AWD Trailblazer brings more than just additional traction—it includes a comprehensive powertrain upgrade. While front-wheel drive Trailblazers come equipped with a 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine generating 137 horsepower and 162 Newton-metres of torque, AWD models receive a more powerful 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder engine.

This enhanced powerplant produces 155 horsepower and 174 Newton-metres of torque, providing the additional muscle needed to drive all four wheels effectively. The torque peak arrives at just 1,600 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration and confident performance in various driving scenarios.

Another significant difference is the transmission pairing. Front-wheel drive Trailblazers utilize a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), while all AWD models come standard with a refined 9-speed automatic transmission. This conventional automatic provides crisp, defined shifts and helps the AWD system operate more efficiently, particularly when conditions demand quick power delivery adjustments.

When to Use AWD in the Trailblazer

The beauty of the selectable AWD system lies in its flexibility. During normal driving on dry, paved roads, keeping the system in front-wheel drive mode maximizes fuel efficiency. However, there are several scenarios where engaging AWD becomes advantageous:

• Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, sleet, and icy conditions all warrant AWD engagement to improve stability and reduce the likelihood of wheel slip.
• Unpaved Roads: Gravel, dirt, and other loose surfaces benefit from the enhanced traction AWD provides, helping maintain control and forward momentum.
• Steep Inclines/Declines: Hills and mountain roads can become easier to navigate with power distributed to all four wheels, reducing the chance of wheel spin on uphill climbs and providing additional stability during descents.
• Light Off-Road Use: While not designed as a hardcore off-roader, the Trailblazer AWD system allows for confident navigation of light trails, campsite access roads, and similar mild off-pavement scenarios.

The system is particularly valuable during seasonal transitions or in areas with rapidly changing weather conditions, where road surfaces can quickly transform from dry to wet or icy.

Fuel Economy Considerations

One common concern with AWD vehicles is their impact on fuel efficiency. The Trailblazer addresses this through its selectable system, which allows drivers to use FWD mode during conditions where AWD isn’t necessary. According to official ratings, the AWD Trailblazer consumes approximately 9.0 L/100 km in city driving, 8.1 L/100 km on highways, and 8.6 L/100 km combined.

These figures represent a modest increase compared to front-wheel drive models, a reasonable trade-off for the additional capability AWD provides. The selectable nature of the system means drivers can optimize their fuel consumption based on conditions and driving needs, rather than paying a permanent fuel economy penalty.

The Driving Experience with AWD

The Trailblazer AWD system noticeably transforms the driving experience, particularly in challenging conditions. The system operates transparently, with sensors detecting wheel slip and automatically redirecting power to wheels with more traction. This happens nearly instantaneously, often before drivers even notice a loss of traction beginning.

During acceleration, particularly from a stop on wet or snowy surfaces, the AWD system helps eliminate wheel spin and provides more even, controlled forward momentum. When cornering on slippery roads, the system enhances stability by ensuring power is distributed optimally among all four wheels, reducing the tendency to understeer that front-wheel drive vehicles often exhibit in similar conditions.

5 Facts About the Trailblazer AWD System

1. The Trailblazer AWD system can detect wheel slip in milliseconds, redirecting torque faster than a human driver could possibly react to changing road conditions.
2. When paired with the AWD system, the Trailblazer 1.3L turbo engine produces its peak torque at just 1,600 rpm, making it particularly effective for maintaining traction in low-grip scenarios where gentle throttle application is crucial.
3. The 9-speed automatic transmission in AWD models contains more individual gears than many sports cars had just a decade ago, helping keep the engine in its optimal power band regardless of speed.
4. The AWD system in the Trailblazer works seamlessly with the vehicle’s stability control and anti-lock braking systems, creating an integrated approach to maintaining vehicle control in challenging conditions.
5. Despite adding the components needed to power all four wheels, the AWD system adds less than 68 kg to the vehicle’s overall weight compared to front-wheel drive models, minimizing the impact on performance and efficiency.

Questions and Answers About AWD in the Chevy Trailblazer

Can I switch between FWD and AWD while driving?

• Yes, the Trailblazer selectable AWD system allows you to switch between modes while driving, making it convenient to engage AWD when conditions change unexpectedly.

Does the AWD system work automatically once engaged?

• Yes, once the AWD mode is selected, the system automatically monitors wheel traction and distributes power as needed without further driver input.

Will using AWD significantly reduce my fuel economy?

• While there is a slight reduction in fuel economy when using AWD (approximately 8.6 L/100 km combined vs. 7.8 L/100 km for FWD models), the selectable nature of the system means you can use FWD mode in good conditions to maximize efficiency.

Is the Trailblazer AWD system suitable for off-road driving?

• The system is primarily for on-road use in varying weather conditions and light off-road scenarios. It’s not intended for serious off-roading or extremely challenging terrain.

How does the AWD system affect the Trailblazer towing capacity?

• AWD models have a maximum towing capacity of 454 kg (1,000 pounds), sufficient for small utility trailers or recreational equipment.

Do all Trailblazer trim levels offer AWD?

• AWD is available across all trim levels (LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS), though it comes standard on higher trims and optional on others.

Does the AWD system require special maintenance?

• The AWD system is relatively maintenance-free, though you should follow the manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance for fluid checks and replacements.

How does the Trailblazer AWD system compare to 4WD systems in larger SUVs?

• It uses a lighter-duty AWD system optimized for on-road performance in varying conditions, while traditional 4WD systems in larger SUVs often offer low-range gearing and more robust components for serious off-road use.

Will AWD help with stopping distance on slippery roads?

• AWD primarily helps with traction during acceleration and cornering. Stopping distance on slippery surfaces depends more on the vehicle’s braking system, tires, and driver technique than on the drivetrain configuration.

Does the AWD system work with the Trailblazer drive modes?

• Yes, the AWD system integrates with the available drive modes, allowing for optimized performance in different scenarios like Normal, Snow, and Sport modes, each with specific throttle response and stability control calibrations.