What year did the Trailblazer come out?

The TrailBlazer first appeared in two eras: the original Chevrolet TrailBlazer debuted for the 2002 model year (sold starting in late 2001), and a modern, smaller TrailBlazer arrived for the 2021 model year.

Below is a concise look at when the nameplate first launched in each generation, plus what distinguishes the two vehicles that share the TrailBlazer badge.

Launch timeline by generation

First generation (2002–2009)

Key milestones for the original TrailBlazer era:

• Introduced for the 2002 model year; U.S. sales began in late 2001.


• Shared GM’s GMT360 platform with related SUVs from GM’s lineup.


• Produced through the 2009 model year, marking the end of the first-generation TrailBlazer.


• Was part of Chevrolet’s mid-size SUV lineup and positioned to compete in a growing segment at the time.

Concluding note: The original TrailBlazer established the name in the early 2000s and filled GM’s mid-size SUV slot before being discontinued in 2009.

Modern revival (2021–present)

Key milestones for the modern TrailBlazer era:

• Announced as a 2021 model year, representing a move to a subcompact crossover format.


• Introduced with turbocharged small engines and front- or all-wheel drive options.


• Continues in production and updated trim levels through the mid-2020s (as of 2025).

Concluding note: The modern TrailBlazer reimagines the badge for a smaller crossover segment and is not related to the original mid-size TrailBlazer in design or platform.

Summary

The TrailBlazer name has served two distinct purposes in Chevrolet’s lineup. The original TrailBlazer arrived as a mid-size SUV for the 2002 model year (with sales starting in late 2001) and ran until 2009. Decades later, Chevrolet revived the badge for a subcompact crossover launched for the 2021 model year, marking a new chapter that focuses on a different market segment. Both eras reflect GM’s evolving approach to SUV sizing and consumer demand.

What year did the new Trailblazer come out?

2021
The “original” Trailblazer lasted through the 2009 model year, after which it was discontinued and the nameplate lay dormant for a decade. The Trailblazer was revived for 2021 as an all-new subcompact SUV that slotted between the subcompact Trax and compact Equinox in Chevrolet's lineup.

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.

What year to avoid a Chevy Trailblazer?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Trailblazer include 2002-2004, 2006, and 2010-2012, due to common issues like engine, transmission, and electrical problems. 2003 and 2006 were particularly problematic, while more recent models like 2020-2023 and 2025 have reported issues with braking systems, transmissions, and other defects.
 
First Generation (2002-2009)

• 2002-2004: These years are plagued by engine and transmission problems, electrical issues, and steering problems. 
• 2003: Especially problematic due to transmission and engine issues, and early problems with the AC blower resistor and cooling fan clutch. 
• 2005: Generally considered one of the better years, with fewer major issues reported. 
• 2006: Despite being a "Super Sport" model, it suffered from a high number of problems, including engine, transmission, and electrical issues. 
• 2007-2008: Continued to have issues with the cooling fan clutch and electrical systems. 

Second Generation (2020-Present)

• 2020-2023: These years have been subject to safety recalls and a number of common issues including electric brake boost failure, sluggish engine performance, and transmission problems. 
• 2023: Reported problems include braking system malfunctions, electrical defects, and transmission performance issues. 
• 2025: Has reported transmission and engine problems. 

What is the most common problem with the Chevy Trailblazer?

The most common problems are with the ignition system, infotainment system, braking system, noise, and vibration.