Does a Chevy Trailblazer have a CVT transmission?
No. The Trailblazer lineup does not use a CVT. The older 2002–2009 TrailBlazer relied on a traditional four-speed automatic, and the current 2021–present Trailblazer uses a conventional multi‑speed automatic (typically nine speeds) rather than a CVT.
Transmission history across generations
The following sections outline how transmissions have been paired with the Trailblazer across its two main generations.
First generation (2002–2009): traditional automatics
In its original run, Chevrolet used standard automatics with no CVT option. This generation relied on a conventional automatic transmission to pair with its engines.
- 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission
- Rear- or four-wheel-drive configurations were common
- Engine options included the 4.2-liter inline-six and, in some trims, V8 power
The first-generation Trailblazer did not offer a CVT; it relied on a traditional four-speed automatic.
Second generation revival (2021–present): modern automatics
The current Trailblazer uses GM’s modern automatic lineup and does not employ a CVT. Most trims pair with a multi‑speed automatic transmission rather than a continuously variable one.
- Typically a nine-speed automatic with turbocharged engines
- Engines include a 1.2L turbo and a 1.3L turbo
- No CVT option in the North American lineup as of 2024
In short, the modern Trailblazer relies on a traditional automatic rather than a CVT.
Summary
Bottom line: there is no CVT in the Chevrolet Trailblazer lineup in its main market. Across its two generations, Chevrolet has favored conventional automatic transmissions—4-speed in the early model years and a multi‑speed automatic (typically nine speeds) in the current generation. If you’re shopping for a specific year or trim, verify the exact transmission listed for that model.
Is the Trailblazer CVT reliable?
The good news is that most CVTs have a lifespan of around 160,000 miles, so chances are low that you'll need to do a transmission replacement if you stick to your Chevy Trailblazer maintenance schedule.
Do all Chevy Trailblazers have CVT transmissions?
All RS and Activ models, regardless of drivetrain, include the 1.3-liter engine as standard equipment. All FWD Trailblazers are equipped with continuously variable transmission as standard.
What kind of transmission does a Chevy Trailblazer have?
A Chevy Trailblazer has either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for front-wheel drive models or a 9-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel drive models. The transmission type depends on the specific powertrain configuration you choose.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Paired with the standard 1.2L turbo engine, these models get a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Paired with the available 1.3L turbo engine, these models come with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
What Chevy does not have CVT transmission?
Chevrolet: The Bolt, Camaro, Corvette, Cruze, Impala, Sonic, Volt, Blazer, Equinox, Tahoe, Suburban, Trailblazer, Traverse, Trax, Colorado and all Silverados are not equipped with CVTs.
