Which is cheaper, a TrailBlazer or a Blazer?

The TrailBlazer is cheaper to buy new than the Blazer. Starting prices for the TrailBlazer typically sit in the low- to mid-$20,000s, while the Blazer generally begins in the mid-$30,000s, with exact figures varying by model year, trim, and options.

Chevrolet positions the TrailBlazer as a compact crossover focused on value and efficiency, while the Blazer targets buyers who want more space and stronger engine options at a higher price. The following sections lay out current pricing, size differences, and feature levels to explain why one model is cheaper and under what circumstances that might change.

Pricing overview

Here is a quick snapshot of typical starting prices for recent model years. All figures are starting MSRPs and can vary by region, trim, and dealer.

• TrailBlazer: Base models generally start in the low- to mid-$20,000s, depending on year and trim level.


• Blazer: Base models generally start in the mid-$30,000s, depending on year and trim level.


• Price gap: The difference between base TrailBlazer and base Blazer is commonly around $10,000–$15,000, with higher trims widening the gap.


• Other factors: Destination charges, options, packages, and local incentives can affect the final price.

In short, if the goal is the lowest possible purchase price, the TrailBlazer is typically cheaper at entry, while the Blazer becomes more expensive as trims and options add up.

Size and power

Size and interior space

The TrailBlazer is a compact SUV, smaller in overall footprint and interior volume. It offers two rows of seating and space suitable for five passengers with decent cargo capacity for its class. The Blazer is a midsize SUV, larger overall, with more cabin width and cargo room, and it feels roomier on longer trips or when hauling gear.

When choosing between them, buyers prioritizing easier urban maneuverability and lower upfront cost typically favor the TrailBlazer, while those needing more space for passengers or equipment may prefer the Blazer.

• TrailBlazer: Smaller, city-friendly footprint; ample for daily driving and light cargo.


• Blazer: Larger, more cargo and passenger space; better for longer trips and bigger loads.


• Seating: Both seat five, but interior feel and comfort scale with size.

In summary, size and practicality tilt in favor of the TrailBlazer for cost-conscious buyers and the Blazer for those needing more interior room.

Powertrains and capability

Power options differ between the two models, with the TrailBlazer offering smaller turbocharged engines focused on efficiency, and the Blazer offering stronger engines for more spirited performance and greater towing potential.

• TrailBlazer: Typically offers smaller turbocharged engines (e.g., 1.2L or 1.3L options) paired with efficient transmissions; tuned for everyday use and fuel economy.


• Blazer: Offers more powerful choices, including larger turbo engines and, in some years, additional engine options that deliver higher horsepower and torque.


• Drivetrain options: Both models commonly offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with the Blazer usually providing more robust options at higher trims.

Bottom line: If maximum power and towing are important, the Blazer tends to deliver more capability at a higher price; if efficiency and lower upfront cost matter most, the TrailBlazer is the cheaper route.

Technology and features

Both models come with Chevrolet’s modern infotainment and safety tech, but the level of standard and available equipment grows with the Blazer’s higher trims.

• TrailBlazer: Solid feature set for the price, typically with a modern touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assist features.


• Blazer: Offers larger display options, enhanced audio, premium materials, and additional safety and convenience features on higher trims.


• Value vs. luxury: The TrailBlazer provides strong value at a lower price; the Blazer adds premium touches that increase cost but can enhance comfort and convenience.

In practice, if your priority is budget and efficiency, the TrailBlazer delivers strong value. If you want more upscale tech and features and don’t mind paying more, the Blazer offers that added level of refinement.

Summary

The TrailBlazer is the cheaper option up front, with a substantially lower starting price compared to the Blazer. The Blazer, while more expensive, provides more interior space, stronger engine options, and additional premium features at higher trims. Buyers should weigh the price gap against their needs for space, power, and equipment to decide which model represents the best value for their circumstances.

What's better, a Chevy Blazer or a Trailblazer?

The Chevy Blazer is a larger, more powerful SUV with a higher towing capacity and more cargo space, while the Trailblazer is a more compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable option. The Blazer is better for families needing more space and towing, whereas the Trailblazer is ideal for city driving and buyers on a budget. Both seat five passengers, and the Trailblazer's smaller size makes it easier to maneuver in tight urban environments.
 
This video compares the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer, highlighting their size, powertrain, and cargo capacity: 59sGarber Chevrolet SubaruYouTube · Aug 8, 2024
Chevy Blazer

• Size: Larger, with a longer wheelbase and a more spacious cabin. 
• Performance: Comes with more powerful engine options, including a V6, and a higher maximum towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds. 
• Cargo: Offers more cargo space behind the first row (up to 64.2 cubic feet) and second row (up to 30.5 cubic feet). 
• Pricing: Generally more expensive, with starting prices around $34,500 for the 2023 model. 

Chevy Trailblazer

• Size: More compact, making it easier to park and navigate in cities. 
• Performance: Features smaller, more fuel-efficient engine options, but has a much lower towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds. 
• Cargo: Provides less cargo space than the Blazer, with up to 54.4 cubic feet maximum and 25.3 cubic feet with the rear seats in use. 
• Pricing: More budget-friendly, with a starting price around $22,000 for the 2023 model. 

What are the disadvantages of a Chevy Blazer?

The main cons of the Chevy Blazer include reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and engine, and potentially overly sensitive safety features. Some owners have also reported problems with sensors, the infotainment system, and premature brake wear. Older models may have issues like faulty fuel gauges, while newer models, especially the EV, may have concerns about the advanced driver-assistance systems.
 
Reliability and mechanical issues

• Transmission problems: Some owners report hard shifts, hesitation, or sudden acceleration, potentially caused by issues like a loose pin on the piston or problems with the engine control module. 
• Engine problems: Reports include overheating issues and other engine problems linked to components like the distributor. 
• Brake concerns: Premature wear on brake pads and rotors, along with potential issues with the anti-lock brake system, have been reported. 
• Fuel system issues: Some older models have had problems with the fuel gauge or fuel pump, and newer models may experience issues with the fuel filter or sensors. 
• Climate control problems: Some owners have reported issues with the heating system not working correctly. 

Technology and safety features

• Over-sensitive safety systems: The pedestrian and bicyclist warning system in the Blazer EV has been described as overly sensitive and annoying, sometimes leading to the desire to turn it off. 
• Unexpected warnings: The automatic reverse braking system has reportedly engaged unexpectedly when there was no obstacle. 
• Infotainment system issues: Some owners have reported problems with the sound system. 

Other drawbacks

• Dated design: Some reviews note that after several years, the design is starting to feel a bit dated despite updates to keep up with competition. 
• Variable reliability: Reliability ratings are inconsistent between different sources, so it is advisable to look at a specific model year's history. 

Why is Chevrolet discontinuing the Blazer?

The gas-powered Chevy Blazer is being discontinued after the 2025 model year to shift production to an all-electric facility, reflecting a broader move towards electric vehicles. This decision comes as internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV sales have been declining, and Chevrolet is focusing on the Blazer EV as a key part of its future product strategy. 
This video explains why Chevy is discontinuing the gas-powered Blazer and focusing on the electric version: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Feb 16, 2025

• Strategic shift to EVs: General Motors is converting its factory in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, to an all-electric facility, which will produce the Blazer EV and other EVs like the Equinox EV and Cadillac Lyriq EV. 
• Focus on EV growth: The company is prioritizing the Blazer EV as a more central part of its portfolio and its overall strategy to increase electric vehicle output. 
• Declining gas model sales: Sales of the mid-size gas-powered SUV have been on a downward trend for several years, with many buyers opting for larger three-row SUVs or smaller compact SUVs instead. 
• EV challenges: While the gas model is being retired, the Blazer EV has faced its own challenges, including initial software issues that temporarily halted sales in late 2023. However, sales of the Blazer EV have since grown significantly. 

How big is the Blazer compared to the Trailblazer?

The Chevy Blazer is significantly larger than the Trailblazer, being about 17.8 inches longer, 5.5 inches wider, and 2.3 inches taller. This difference in size translates to more passenger and cargo space in the Blazer, with up to 64.2 cubic feet of max cargo space compared to the Trailblazer's 54.4 cubic feet. The Trailblazer's smaller size makes it more agile and easier to maneuver in cities, while the Blazer offers more interior room and a stronger road presence.
 
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer, including their dimensions and interior space: 1mBerger ChevroletYouTube · Feb 8, 2021
Exterior size

• Blazer: Approximately 191.8 inches long and 76.7 inches wide.
• Trailblazer: Approximately 174.07 inches long and 71.2 inches wide. 

Interior space

• Passenger Volume: The Blazer has a larger passenger volume. Both SUVs seat five passengers and offer similar front and rear legroom.
• Cargo Space:
  • Blazer: Up to 64.2 cubic feet behind the first row and 30.5 cubic feet behind the second row.
  • Trailblazer: Up to 54.4 cubic feet behind the first row and 25.3 cubic feet behind the second row. 

Which one is right for you

• Choose the Trailblazer if: You prioritize fuel efficiency, a lower starting price, and a smaller vehicle for easier city driving and parking. 
• Choose the Blazer if: You need more interior space for passengers and cargo, a more powerful engine option, and a larger road presence. 

This video compares the Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer, highlighting their differences in performance and fuel efficiency: 54sCountry ChevroletYouTube · Nov 7, 2020