The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a subcompact crossover SUV that's affordably priced, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly spacious. Many drivers in the Red Lion area are interested in SUVs that have the drivability of a sedan combined with the versatility of an SUV. If this sounds like you, take a second look at the Trailblazer. As the smaller, less-expensive version of the Chevrolet Blazer, the Trailblazer offers an attractive and sporty exterior that's as easy to park as it is to cruise on the highway.
Available in four trim levels with various package options, it might be difficult to decide which Trailblazer is the best fit for you. At Apple Chevrolet of Red Lion, we've broken down all the options to help make coming to a decision a breeze. Let's take a closer look at each trim level that the Trailblazer has to offer: the LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS.
Engine Options
Chevrolet keeps it relatively simple with the engine offerings for the Trailblazer, offering just two different turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 137-horsepower 1.2L and a 155-horsepower 1.3L. The 1.2L version only comes with front-wheel drive and is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. If you're looking for all-wheel drive, you'll need the 1.3L option, which is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The LS and LT trim levels come standard with front-wheel drive and the 1.2L powertrain. Opting for all-wheel drive in the LS and LT trims will boost the engine up to the 1.3L variation. The larger engine is also an option for front-wheel-drive LT models and is standard on the ACTIV and RS trim levels. The 1.2L engine sees around 30 mpg in combined city and highway driving, while the 1.3L version achieves 31 mpg combined.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS (MSRP: $23,395)
The LS is the base model of the Trailblazer, and it's perfect for drivers looking for a reliable, comfortable, and affordable SUV for daily driving. It caters to basic driving needs but still adds a few more advanced touches, so you won't feel like you're being left behind when it comes to modern car technology.Â
When looking at the exterior of the LS, standard outer features include automatic on-off halogen headlights, low grille shutters, and 17-inch painted aluminum wheels. Inside, you'll find power windows, locks, and outboard rearview mirrors, as well as cloth-covered front bucket seats, a front center console, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, air conditioning, and two USB ports. The tilt-telescopic steering wheel features audio system controls for added convenience.
In-car technology is anchored with a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system that features Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, satellite radio, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, and a six-speaker audio system. The LS also includes an impressive lineup of driver-assistance features, including teen driver mode, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, high-beam assist, and lane-keep assist with lane departure warning.
If you're looking to enhance your LS, you have the option of adding the Driver Confidence and Cruise Package. This package includes cruise control, lane-change alert, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT (MSRP: $25,595)
The LT builds upon the base model by offering a host of standard features that create a more luxurious feel, including cruise control, remote keyless entry, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, heated front seats, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The exterior of the LT gets a few upgrades as well, including standard LED fog lights, heated outboard mirrors, and 17-inch black aluminum wheels.
If these standard features weren't enough, the LT includes a range of available packages to help you customize your SUV to your liking. The Adaptive Cruise Control Package provides adaptive cruise control, a 4.2-inch color driver information display, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rear-center armrest. Also available is the Convenience Package, which adds automatic climate control, an 8-inch touch screen, two USB ports, one 120-volt power outlet, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and driver and front seat passenger illuminated vanity mirrors with covered, sliding visors.Â
If additional driver assistance features are important to you, then you might want to add the Driver Confidence Package, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-change alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist to your list of driver assistance tools. The final package offering for the LT is the Sun and Liftgate Package, which includes a power panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power rear liftgate.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV (MSRP: $27,495)
While the first two trim levels are aimed at drivers with more basic needs, the next two are geared toward drivers looking for a slightly more capable SUV in terms of performance. A unique exterior style includes titanium chrome-plated front and rear lower fascias, plus a complementary-colored roof. You'll also find a functioning front skid plate, a specially tuned off-road suspension system, 17-inch sport-terrain tires, dual exhaust outlets, and LED taillights.
Inside, you'll find standard features such as a rear center armrest, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped shift knob.
Package options start with the Driver Confidence, Sun and Liftgate, and Convenience Packages that are available on the LT trim. You can also add the Technology Package, which includes an 8-inch diagonal HD color touch screen, HD Radio, a premium seven-speaker system, wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, rear vision camera, and more.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS (MSRP: $27,495)
The RS removes some of ACTIV's unique elements, such as the skid plate, off-road suspension, and  complementary-colored roof. In their place, it adds a few sporty features, such as front and rear black bowtie emblems and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Besides these mainly aesthetic differences, the RS and ACTIV are basically the same.
Which Is the Best Trim  Option for You?
When deciding which Trailblazer is the best match for you, you'll want to consider whether you're interested in a more basic, affordable option or you're willing to spend a little more to have a flashier SUV with a more powerful engine. Whatever you deem most important, the Trailblazer has an option that will suit your needs. Be sure to check out our available inventory here at Apple Chevrolet of Red Lion to see which Trailblazer you could drive home today.
OEM Image via Chevrolet