When did Chevy stop making the Trailblazer?
Chevrolet discontinued the Trailblazer SUV in the United States after the 2009 model year. The Trailblazer was a popular mid-size SUV that was produced by Chevrolet from 2002 to 2009 in the U.S. market. However, the Trailblazer nameplate continued to be used for a different model sold in other global markets.
The Rise and Fall of the Chevy Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer was introduced in 2001 as a 2002 model year vehicle, replacing the Chevrolet Blazer. It was designed as a mid-size SUV that could seat up to seven passengers. The Trailblazer was well-received and became one of Chevrolet's best-selling SUV models throughout the 2000s.
However, by the late 2000s, the Trailblazer's popularity began to wane as consumer preferences shifted towards more fuel-efficient crossover SUVs. Chevrolet decided to discontinue the Trailblazer in the U.S. market after the 2009 model year.
The Trailblazer's Continued Use Overseas
While the Trailblazer nameplate was retired in the United States, it continued to be used for a different model sold in other global markets, such as Asia and South America. This new Trailblazer, introduced in 2012, was a smaller, more fuel-efficient crossover SUV that shared underpinnings with the Chevrolet Equinox.
The global Trailblazer model is still in production today and is sold in many international markets, but it has never been reintroduced to the U.S. market.
The Trailblazer's Legacy
Despite its discontinuation in the U.S., the Chevrolet Trailblazer remains an iconic SUV model in the brand's history. It was a popular and capable vehicle that helped establish Chevrolet's reputation in the mid-size SUV segment. While the Trailblazer name lives on in other markets, the original U.S. model is no longer in production.
Will there be a 2025 Chevy Trailblazer?
Drivers in Louisville will appreciate the fact the Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to offer a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive to meet your needs. Both the 2025 and 2026 Chevy Trailblazer earn 30/31 (city/highway) miles per gallon in FWD models and 26/29 mpg in AWD configurations.
What did Chevy replace the Trailblazer with?
the Traverse
The TrailBlazer was replaced by the Traverse in 2009.
Did Chevrolet discontinue the Trailblazer?
The original truck-based Chevy Trailblazer was discontinued in North America after the 2009 model year, but the nameplate was revived for a new, smaller subcompact crossover SUV in 2021. Therefore, it is not a completely discontinued model, but it is important to distinguish between the old, large SUV and the new, smaller one that is currently in production and available in the 2025 model year.
Original Trailblazer (2002-2009 model years)
- Discontinued: Yes, in North America, after the 2009 model year.
- Reason: Replaced by the larger Chevrolet Traverse crossover in the lineup.
- Continued elsewhere: The nameplate continued to be used for a different model in some international markets after 2009.
New Trailblazer (2021-present)
- Discontinued: No, it is currently in production and available as a 2025 model year vehicle.
- Type: A subcompact crossover SUV, which is different from the original truck-based model.
- Note: While the name is the same, the vehicle is entirely different in size and construction.
Which year Trailblazer to avoid?
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.
