Is a Chevy Trailblazer a midsize SUV?
The Chevy Trailblazer is not midsize; it is a subcompact crossover SUV, Chevrolet's smallest SUV in most model years. This article explains its size, how it's classified, and how that classification compares with true midsize SUVs.
Sizing and market positioning
In the United States, the Trailblazer is marketed and widely classified as a subcompact crossover. It offers urban-friendly dimensions and less interior space than midsize models; its smaller footprint is designed for city driving and efficiency rather than the space and towing capacity associated with midsize SUVs.
- Size class: Subcompact crossover SUV, smaller than compact and midsize models.
- Footprint: Roughly 173 inches in length with a compact footprint suitable for city driving.
- Interior: Seats five with relatively modest cargo space compared with midsize SUVs.
- Powertrain/drive: Front-wheel drive standard with available all-wheel drive; engines prioritize efficiency over higher-end power typical of midsize SUVs.
Key facts about its size and classification:
Taken together, these attributes explain why the Trailblazer sits in the subcompact class rather than the midsize category, even as buyers may seek features similar to compact crossovers.
How it compares to midsize SUVs
To illustrate the difference, consider how a typical midsize SUV stacks up: more interior space, larger cargo areas, higher towing capacities, and a larger overall footprint—often accompanied by a higher price tag. The Trailblazer offers city-friendly handling, lower cost, and better fuel economy, at the expense of space and capability.
- Interior and cargo: Significantly less space in the Trailblazer than in typical midsize SUVs.
- Towing and power: Lower towing capacity and engine power on the Trailblazer.
- Price and options: Lower starting price and simpler feature sets in many trims compared with midsize rivals.
- Ride and practicality: More agile in urban settings, but a less comfortable long-drive ride than many midsize options.
Key contrasts with midsize SUVs:
If interior space, higher towing capacity, or a more spacious cabin are priorities, a true midsize option—such as Chevrolet's Blazer (which sits in the midsize category) or competing brands—will offer more of those capabilities.
Bottom line
The Trailblazer does not fit the midsize category. It remains a subcompact crossover with a focus on efficiency and agility in urban environments. For a larger, more capable Chevrolet SUV, look to the Blazer or Equinox as alternative choices—though the Blazer is the midsize option in the lineup.
Summary
In short, the Chevy Trailblazer is a subcompact SUV, not midsize. It fills a niche for buyers prioritizing city practicality, fuel efficiency, and a lower starting price, while midsize SUVs provide more space, power, and towing capability for larger families or heavier loads.
Is the Chevy Trailblazer a midsize SUV?
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer (also known as Trailblazer) is a mid-size SUV produced by Chevrolet, a division of General Motors. The nameplate was first used in North America from 2001 to 2008; in 2009, it was replaced by the Traverse, as a crossover SUV.
What size is a Chevy Trailblazer considered?
The Chevy Trailblazer is a compact SUV with a length of approximately 174 inches, a width of about 71.2 inches (without mirrors), and a height of around 65.7 inches. It has a wheelbase of about 103.95 inches, seats up to five passengers, and offers a maximum cargo capacity of around 54.4 cubic feet.
Exterior dimensions
- Length: 174.07 inches
- Width (without mirrors): 71.2 inches
- Height: 65.68 inches
- Wheelbase: 103.95 inches
- Ground clearance: 7.5 inches
Interior and cargo
- Seating capacity: 5 passengers
- Cargo capacity (all seats in place): 25.3 cubic feet
- Maximum cargo capacity: 54.4 cubic feet
- Front headroom: 39.98 inches
- Rear headroom: 38.4 inches
- Front legroom: 40.9 inches
- Rear legroom: 39.0 inches
- Front hip room: 52.3 inches
- Rear hip room: 50.39 inches
What SUV does the Trailblazer compare to?
The best thing about the TrailBlazer is its value and fuel economy. Cars similar to the Chevy Trailblazer include its Chevrolet Trax sibling. The Trax is a bit more spacious and, oddly enough, a bit cheaper, which makes it seem like a far better value at first glance.
Which Chevy SUV is midsize?
Midsize Chevrolet SUVs like the Blazer, Blazer EV, and Traverse offer the perfect middle ground for many drivers.
