One of the reasons consumers are so eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is for what is under the hood. Chevy has long been respected for its strong gasoline engines, but they are doing something a little different for this up-and-coming crossover. TrailBlazer will be motivated by Duramax turbo diesel 2.8-liter engine. Although fuel economy ratings have not been released, one can expect to see impressive numbers considering the engine is supported by a variable geometry turbo charger. This is also expected to be a standard all-wheel drive vehicle. Rumor has it that this engine will churn out 180 horsepower and 364 pound-feet of torque. There is also rumor that there could be a smaller 2.5-liter diesel engine available good for 150 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It is hard to say how TrailBlazer will handle, but one can only expect that it will deliver an enjoyable ride, as its immediate relatives do. It will likely have the same four-wheel independent suspension to ensure that bumps are absorbed, without causing discomfort to passengers, regardless of seating position.
Chevrolet never disappoints when it comes to technology and entertainment, so one can only expect that they will hit a homerun with these features in TrailBlazer. Although it is unknown what audio system will be available, if you look at other Chevy SUVs, you can expect to see a nice size color touchscreen, premium speakers, USB interface and more. A few other features that you can plan on being available include:
• MyLink - This innovative app works with your smartphone through Bluetooth wireless technology. It allows you to control an array of features through voice command, including Pandora®, SiriusXM and Stitcher SmartRadio™.
• Rear Seat Entertainment - Although not confirmed, it is looking as though TrailBlazer’s available rear seat entertainment system will come with two flip-down screens that will work individually or simultaneously for each row.
Obviously, TrailBlazer won’t be crash-tested for a while, but it will likely score as well as its immediate Equinox and Traverse siblings, which receive top safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Also, it will be equipped with OnStar, which gives you auto crash response, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle tracking and more. Safety features you can expect to see include:
• Rearview camera
• Rear parking sensors
• Lane departure warning
• Front collision warning system
• Rear door safety locks
• Post collision safety system
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Child seat anchors
• Traction control
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Remote anti-theft alarm
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Engine immobilizer
The exterior of the 2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is the perfect blend of aggressive and modern styling. Well-defined wheel arches, aerodynamic lines and body colored mirrors, bumpers and handles are the perfect backdrop to an iconic Chevrolet dual-port grille and fierce wheels. This will definitely be one to watch for on the road as it is very distinct from its SUV siblings.
The bold exterior styling continues inside the seven-passenger cabin. The styling is clean and modern with bold accents, which starts with a center stack console and flowing instrument panel that integrates flawlessly. A highlight for the TrailBlazer is the overhead console with creative lighting that integrates the vehicle’s HVAC system with available onboard infotainment. Light-colored leather throughout is complemented by dual-grain surfaces that are accented with chrome. Seating is spacious, offering a three-row tumble and/or fold flat seats, provide optimal versatility, accessibility and comfort.
Actual cargo measurements have not been released yet, but TrailBlazer will have many creative storage compartments throughout the interior. This includes a covered center bin as well as a large dual glove box.