Chevrolet Trailblazer 2005: The Weekly Driver Review

A Comprehensive Look at the 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Performance and Power

The 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer comes in eight different models, with the EXT being the most powerful. The 5.3-liter V8 engine delivers 325 horsepower, making it a formidable presence on the road. However, this power comes at a cost, as the fuel efficiency is less than stellar, with an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway (source: FuelEconomy.gov).

Interior and Comfort

The Trailblazer's interior is a mix of highs and lows. The two-tone design and well-thought-out console are visually appealing, and the vehicle offers ample cargo space. However, the second-row seating leaves much to be desired. During a test drive, a 6-foot-3 passenger found his head hitting the roof, a surprising flaw for such a large SUV.

Sound System Excellence

One of the standout features of the Trailblazer is its Bose premium sound system, available in the Sun, Sound, and Entertainment Package. This system includes an AM/FM stereo, a six-disc changer, XM satellite radio, and eight speakers, providing an exceptional audio experience. In fact, it's one of the best sound systems we've encountered in any test vehicle over the past two years.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Trailblazer offers a quiet ride and handles well in traffic, thanks to its tight turning radius. However, the braking system is inconsistent, performing well in some situations but feeling soft and unresponsive in others. This inconsistency can be a significant drawback, especially for a vehicle in this price range.

Fuel Efficiency and Costs

The Trailblazer's fuel efficiency is a notable downside, with ratings of 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. This is below average for SUVs in its class. Additionally, the cost can quickly escalate with the addition of various option packages. The Sun, Sound, and Entertainment, Luxury, and V8 Power Play packages can add nearly $7,000 to the base price, pushing the total cost to over $41,000.

Standard and Optional Features

The Trailblazer comes with a range of standard features, including power mirrors, heated daytime running lamps, remote keyless entry, tinted rear glass, and 65/35 second and third-row folding seats. However, some features that are standard on other SUVs, such as cruise control and steering wheel audio controls, are optional on the Trailblazer.

Safety and Warranty

Safety features include dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags and antilock brakes. The warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles for bumper-to-bumper and powertrain, and six years or 100,000 miles for corrosion. Additionally, the vehicle comes with 24-hour free roadside assistance for three years or 36,000 miles.

Pricing

The base price of the 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer is $34,270. With the addition of various option packages, the price can exceed $41,000. However, a Preferred Equipment Savings reduction of $3,150 brings the top-of-the-line model's price down to $38,515, including a $685 destination charge.

Conclusion

The 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a mixed bag. It offers a powerful engine, a comfortable ride, and an excellent sound system, but it falls short in areas like fuel efficiency, braking consistency, and second-row headroom. For nearly $40,000, these shortcomings are hard to overlook.

Interesting Stats

• The 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer was one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States, with over 244,150 units sold that year (source: GoodCarBadCar).
• Despite its flaws, the Trailblazer received a 4-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for both driver and passenger in frontal crash tests (source: NHTSA).

2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer Specifications

In summary, while the 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers several appealing features, potential buyers should weigh these against its notable drawbacks.