Are Chevy Trailblazers good on gas?

The Trailblazer generally delivers solid fuel economy for a subcompact SUV, with EPA estimates typically in the high 20s to low 30s mpg depending on engine choice and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with driving style, conditions, and load.

What affects fuel economy in the Trailblazer

The answer depends on the model year and configuration. The current Trailblazer offerings revolve around two turbocharged four-cylinder engines and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. No hybrid variant is available, so mpg is driven by engine size, turbo efficiency, transmission, and drivetrain, plus factors like weight, aerodynamics, and tire choice.

Fuel economy by engine and drivetrain

Below are typical EPA-oriented expectations for the two main gasoline powertrains and drivetrain configurations. Note that fuel economy can vary by year, trim level, and options, and all-wheel drive generally reduces efficiency slightly compared with front-wheel drive.

• 1.2L turbocharged inline-3 with 9-speed automatic, front-wheel drive (FWD): EPA-estimated combined mpg around 29–31; AWD versions are typically about 1–2 mpg lower in combined mileage.


• 1.3L turbocharged inline-3 with 9-speed automatic, front-wheel drive (FWD): EPA-estimated combined mpg around 28–30; all-wheel drive versions reduce combined mpg by roughly 1–2 mpg.


• All configurations use a modern 9-speed automatic transmission, with no hybrid option available, which helps keep efficiency competitive in its class.

In summary, the Trailblazer’s fuel economy sits in a competitive range for subcompact SUVs with gasoline engines. The smaller 1.2L turbo tends to edge out slightly on highway efficiency, while the 1.3L turbo balances power and efficiency. AWD trims reduce mpg by a small margin.

How it stacks up against rivals

Compared with rivals in the same class, the Trailblazer’s mpg is generally on par with other non-hybrid subcompact SUVs that rely on turbocharged four-cylinders. Some competitors offer mild-hybrid or hybrid options that edge higher on fuel efficiency in city driving, but those models may come with higher price tags or different power characteristics. In everyday use, the Trailblazer tends to deliver a practical blend of performance and efficiency suitable for urban commuting and lighter highway trips.

Rivals such as the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek vary in powertrains and weight, which affects mpg. For buyers focused on maximizing miles per gallon without stepping up to a hybrid, the Trailblazer remains a competitive choice within its segment.

Maximizing gas mileage in the Trailblazer

Practically, you can squeeze more efficiency from your Trailblazer with a few routine habits and settings. The following tips summarize what helps most people improve mpg in daily driving.

• Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure; underinflation hurts fuel economy and handling.


• Lighten the load and remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as extra weight and aero drag reduce efficiency.


• Use Eco or similar efficiency modes if equipped, and maintain steady speeds on highways rather than frequent acceleration/deceleration.


• Plan routes to minimize idling and stop-and-go traffic; consider cruise control on longer highway stretches.


• Keep up with regular maintenance, including air filters and spark plugs, to ensure the engine runs efficiently.

Real-world mileage tends to be a bit lower than EPA estimates, especially in city driving or with heavy loads, but disciplined driving can narrow the gap.

Conclusion

The Chevy Trailblazer offers respectable fuel economy for its class, with two turbocharged engine options that provide a balance of efficiency and capability. For buyers prioritizing mpg above all else, the 1.2L turbo in FWD form is typically the most fuel-efficient setup, while AWD configurations diminish efficiency slightly. If a strict hybrid or a leading-edge mpg figure is essential, you may look at rivals offering hybrid variants, but within its gasoline-only lineup, the Trailblazer remains a sensible, fuel-conscious choice.

Summary

Overall, the Trailblazer delivers competitive gas mileage for a subcompact SUV, with two turbocharged gas engines offering similar combined mpg ranges and only modest penalties for AWD. Real-world results depend on driving habits and conditions, but for urban-to-suburban use, it remains a solid option for fuel-conscious buyers in its class.

What are the cons of the Chevy Trailblazer?

Common cons of the Chevy Trailblazer include issues with its engine and transmission, poor fuel efficiency for its class, and some interior and technological drawbacks like a low-quality backup camera, a sluggish infotainment system, and a lack of rear A/C vents on some models. Other reported problems include rough idling, rattles, and annoying safety systems. 
Performance and reliability

• Engine and transmission: Some users report rough idling, hard shifting, and a noisy engine, especially with the 1.3L turbo engine. The nine-speed transmission can struggle and hesitate. 
• Fuel economy: For its class, the Trailblazer's gas mileage is sometimes considered disappointing. 
• Safety systems: Some drivers find the safety systems, such as the forward emergency braking, to be annoying or overly sensitive. 
• Known issues: Some model years have experienced specific problems like ignition, brake, and electrical issues. 

Technology and interior

• Backup camera: The standard backup camera is frequently described as low-quality, with poor image clarity, especially at night. 
• Infotainment system: The infotainment system can be sluggish or freeze. 
• Rear climate control: Some models lack rear A/C vents, or only have small ones, which can be an issue for rear passengers. 
• Other missing features: Some trims lack features like heated upper seats and a rear-view camera mirror. 

Other considerations

• Depreciation: The Trailblazer may have higher depreciation than some competitors. 
• Off-road limitations: While it can handle some light trails, it is not a true off-road vehicle and is better suited for pavement or mild dirt paths. 

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Are Chevy Trailblazers a reliable vehicle?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's styling and reliability to be its strongest features and quality to be its weakest. 29 out of 39 of owners (74% of them) rank the 2026 Trailblazer five out of five stars.

Is the Chevy Trailblazer fuel efficient?

But with gas prices rising, you may be wondering if it has the fuel efficiency you're looking for. Thankfully, the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer gas mileage is rated up to an impressive 29 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, meaning you'll spend less time at the pump in Schertz and more time doing what you love.

Are Chevy Blazers good on gas?

Very! Depending on the configuration, the 2024 Chevy Blazer mpg ratings can reach up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway!