What Chevy replaced the Trailblazer?

The Chevrolet Traverse replaced the TrailBlazer as Chevy’s main three-row SUV after the TrailBlazer was discontinued in 2009. The TrailBlazer name later returned in 2020 for a smaller crossover, but that revival did not displace the Traverse’s role in Chevy’s lineup.

To understand the shift, it helps to look at how GM reorganized its SUV offerings after the TrailBlazer ended, and why Chevrolet chose a different vehicle to fill that space. This article traces the historical transition and notes the later revival of the TrailBlazer name on a distinct, smaller model.

The replacement in Chevrolet’s lineup

Below is a concise timeline of key points about the TrailBlazer’s discontinuation and the Traverse’s introduction as its successor in Chevrolet’s SUV lineup.

1. 2002: Chevrolet introduces the TrailBlazer to replace the Blazer in the lineup, positioning it as the brand’s mid-size, family-oriented SUV.


2. 2009: The TrailBlazer is discontinued as GM restructures its SUV lineup in the wake of bankruptcy and reorganization; Chevrolet introduces the Traverse as the primary three‑row crossover to fill the space left by the TrailBlazer.


3. 2010s: The Traverse becomes Chevrolet’s main large crossover for families, offering three-row seating and a more modern, unibody platform compared with the older TrailBlazer’s body-on-frame design.

In short, the Traverse effectively assumed the TrailBlazer’s market segment and role in Chevrolet’s lineup during the transition period, providing a modern alternative for buyers seeking a family-oriented, three-row crossover.

The TrailBlazer revival in 2020

In 2020, Chevrolet revived the TrailBlazer name for a subcompact crossover that fits beneath the Equinox in size and price. This revival marks a branding return rather than a direct continuation of the original TrailBlazer’s three-row, body-on-frame design; the new TrailBlazer occupies a different segment and sits alongside the Traverse rather than replacing it.

How the 2020 revival differs from the original TrailBlazer

The modern TrailBlazer is a small, fuel-efficient crossover aimed at urban buyers, whereas the original TrailBlazer was a mid-size SUV built on a truck-based platform. The revival does not displace the Traverse or the larger Chevy SUVs; instead, it adds a distinct entry point to Chevy’s SUV family.

Summary

The Chevrolet Traverse filled the role of the TrailBlazer’s successor in Chevrolet’s lineup after the original TrailBlazer was discontinued in 2009, establishing a modern, three-row crossover as the family SUV. The TrailBlazer name reappeared in 2020 for a smaller, subcompact crossover, introducing a separate chapter in the nameplate’s history. Together, these moves illustrate how GM reshaped its SUV lineup over the years while retaining legacy branding in new forms.

Why was the Trailblazer discontinued?

The original Trailblazer was discontinued in 2009 due to rising gas prices, poor fuel economy, and a shift in consumer demand toward more car-like crossovers. It was replaced by the larger Traverse, and its discontinuation marked a strategic move by Chevrolet to focus on trucks and crossovers with a more car-like unibody design.
 

• Market and consumer shifts: The demand for traditional, body-on-frame SUVs declined as consumers began to prefer car-based crossovers with better fuel economy and more car-like handling. 
• Fuel economy and gas prices: The Trailblazer's poor fuel economy was a major factor, especially during a period of rising gasoline prices. 
• Replacement by the Traverse: The larger, more car-like Traverse was introduced to fill the gap left by the Trailblazer, becoming the new midsize SUV for the brand. 
• Shift in strategy: Chevrolet decided to focus on the growing crossover segment, which aligns with the company's broader strategy to transition away from traditional body-on-frame SUVs. 

It is important to note that the Trailblazer name was later revived for a new subcompact SUV that debuted in 2021, which is a crossover and has no connection to the original SUV.

Which is better, the Chevy Equinox or the Trailblazer?

The main differences are size, price, and cargo space, with the Equinox being larger, more expensive, and having more cargo room, while the Trailblazer is smaller, more affordable, and better for city driving. The Equinox is a small SUV with more cabin and cargo space (up to 63.9 cu. ft. folded down) and a higher starting price, whereas the Trailblazer is a subcompact crossover with more maneuverability and a lower starting price (around $23,100 vs. $28,600 for the Equinox). 
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the two vehicles, including details about the interior and cargo space: 57sChevrolet of EverettYouTube · Nov 8, 2024
Chevrolet Trailblazer

• Size: Smaller subcompact crossover.
• Price: Lower starting price (around $23,100).
• Cargo Space: Less cargo volume (up to 54.4 cu. ft. with seats folded).
• Engine: Available with a 1.2L1.2 cap L1.2𝐿 or 1.3L1.3 cap L1.3𝐿 Turbo engine.
• Best for: City driving, tight parking, and budget-conscious buyers. 

Chevrolet Equinox

• Size: Larger small SUV.
• Price: Higher starting price (around $28,600).
• Cargo Space: More cargo volume (up to 63.9 cu. ft. with seats folded).
• Engine: Available with a 1.5L1.5 cap L1.5𝐿 Turbo engine.
• Best for: Small families, hauling cargo, and longer road trips. 

Which is better, Nissan Rogue or Chevy Trailblazer?

The Nissan Rogue is a more premium and practical choice with greater cargo space, more standard safety features, and a more powerful engine, while the Chevy Trailblazer is a more budget-friendly option with a stylish design and versatile, flat-folding seats. The Rogue generally has a higher starting price, but its standard features can make it a better value for some buyers. Choose the Rogue for cargo capacity and standard driver assistance, and the Trailblazer for a lower entry price and flexible cargo options. 
You can watch this video to see a review of the Chevy Trailblazer's interior and features: 56sDriven Car Reviews With Tom VoelkYouTube · Nov 17, 2020
Nissan Rogue

• Pros:
  • More powerful engine: The 2025 Rogue has a more powerful 201-horsepower engine compared to the Trailblazer's 155 horsepower. 
  • More cargo space: The Rogue has a significantly larger cargo volume with the rear seats up and folded down. 
  • More standard safety features: The Rogue includes more standard safety features like Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a Driver Alert Monitor. 
  • Better handling: The Rogue offers a smoother ride and better handling due to a longer wheelbase and wider track. 
• Cons:
  • Higher starting price: The 2025 Nissan Rogue has a higher starting MSRP than the 2024 Trailblazer. 

Chevy Trailblazer

• Pros:
  • More affordable: The Trailblazer has a lower starting price, making it a more budget-friendly option. 
  • More cargo flexibility: The Trailblazer's seats fold completely flat, allowing you to haul very long items, which is more versatile than the Rogue's fold-down rear seats. 
  • Stylish design: The Trailblazer is praised for its stylish and rugged design. 
• Cons:
  • Less standard safety technology: Many advanced safety features are optional on the Trailblazer, not standard like on the Rogue. 
  • Less cargo space: The Trailblazer has less cargo volume than the Rogue. 
  • Less powerful engine: The Trailblazer's engine is less powerful than the Rogue's. 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose the Nissan Rogue if your priorities are more cargo space, a more powerful engine, and a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features. 
• Choose the Chevy Trailblazer if you are looking for a more affordable compact SUV with a stylish design and flexible cargo options for hauling larger items. 

What did Chevy replace the Trailblazer with?

the Traverse
The TrailBlazer was replaced by the Traverse in 2009.