Exploring Chevy Trailblazer Competitors – If you’ve got your eye on a Chevrolet Trailblazer, you’re in good company.
This iconic mid-size SUV has had a storied history, making waves in the automotive world since its debut in 1999.
But what if you’re looking for something similar to the Trailblazer, or perhaps considering its alternatives and competitors? We’ve got you covered.
The first-generation Trailblazer produced between 2001 and 2008, introduced the world to its rugged charm.
Back then, it was positioned as an upscale trim of the compact Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, and it didn’t officially adopt the GMT360 truck platform until 2002.
For those years, it was primarily a four-wheel-drive vehicle, except for the sporty SS model, which boasted an all-wheel-drive system.
After an interruption, the Trailblazer made a triumphant return in 2011, this time for the Asian market.
Unveiled as a concept during the 2011 Dubai Motor Show, it soon graced the production lines in 2012 at the Bangkok Motor Show.
This second generation was built in Thailand and Brazil, finding its way to the roads of Asia, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and even Australia, where it went by the name Holden Colorado before being rebadged as the Trailblazer.
Fast forward to 2022, and the Chevrolet Trailblazer is back in North America, this time as a subcompact crossover SUV.
Starting at a competitive $21,600 USD, it’s poised to win over the hearts of many. But the Trailblazer isn’t the only contender in the subcompact crossover SUV arena.
The newest Trailblazer comes in two flavors: a 1.2-liter engine delivering 137 horsepower and 162 pounds per foot of torque, and a 1.3-liter powerhouse churning out 155 horsepower and 174 pounds per foot of torque.
What about fuel efficiency? Expect between thirty to thirty-three miles per gallon on the highway and twenty-six to twenty-nine miles per gallon in the city. It’s a compelling package, no doubt.
Now, let’s delve into the exciting world of cars similar to the Chevy Trailblazer. Whether you’re seeking a vehicle like the Trailblazer or exploring its alternatives and competitors, we’ve got the insights you need to make an informed decision.
20 Best Cars Similar to Chevy Trailblazer: Exploring Alternatives and Competitors
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce 20 vehicles that have similarities to the Chevy Trailblazer, offering you a variety of choices.
1. Buick Encore GX: A Close Sibling
If you’re a fan of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Buick Encore GX should be on your radar. Both of these SUVs hail from the same General Motors family, and the resemblance is striking.
They share a five-door SUV classification, utilizing the GM VSS-F platform. The drivetrain options include a nine-speed automatic all-wheel-drive and a CVT four-wheel-drive, just like the Trailblazer.
The primary differences between them are the luxuries and the starting price point. The Buick Encore GX kicks off at $25,900 USD, which is a bit pricier than its Trailblazer counterpart.
It’s worth noting that the Encore GX offers slightly less cargo space, with 50.2 cubic feet compared to the Trailblazer’s 54.4 cubic feet.
Both vehicles sport the same 155-horsepower output, and while the GX has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 102.2 inches (compared to the Trailblazer’s 103.9 inches), it retains the essence of the Trailblazer’s performance and style.
Related: Buick Encore Competitors
2. Chevrolet Trax: A Compact Companion
If you’re looking for a compact SUV that shares the Chevrolet Trailblazer’s DNA, the Chevrolet Trax is another excellent choice.
As part of the General Motors family, these two vehicles have more in common than just their makers. Both are classified as compact SUVs, seat five people and offer multiple drivetrain options.
The Trax, however, has a tad less cargo storage space at 48.4 cubic feet, while the Trailblazer provides a roomier 54.4 cubic feet.
Like its Chevrolet cousin, the Trax boasts a 155-horsepower output. However, its fuel economy is not quite as efficient, with twenty-four miles per gallon in the city and thirty-two miles per gallon on the highway.
Nevertheless, if you’re drawn to the Chevrolet brand and the versatility of the Trailblazer, the Trax is a worthy alternative.
3. Dodge Hornet: A Challenger in the Making
The Dodge Hornet is Dodge’s answer to the compact crossover SUV market and aims to give vehicles like the Chevy Trailblazer a run for their money.
This sleek and sporty SUV is a fresh design from Dodge and is destined to replace the Dodge Journey.
With an estimated starting price of $30,000 USD, the Hornet is based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale design, promising a combination of style and performance.
As the demand for smaller, more environmentally friendly SUVs continues to grow, the Hornet is poised to make a significant impact.
If you’re seeking an alternative that’s innovative and forward-thinking, the Dodge Hornet is a compelling option.
4. Ford EcoSport: Compact and Capable
The Ford EcoSport is another vehicle that shares similarities with the Chevy Trailblazer. With 166 horsepower at 6,500 revolutions per minute and 149 pounds per foot of torque at 4,500 revolutions per minute, the EcoSport offers a competitive performance.
While the EcoSport is slightly shorter and narrower than the Trailblazer, it still falls within the compact SUV classification.
It can reach sixty miles per hour in 9.8 seconds, just a fraction behind the Trailblazer’s 9.4 seconds. You’ll find options for both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, catering to your preference.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the EcoSport shines with thirty miles per gallon on the highway and twenty-six miles per gallon in the city.
It’s a cost-effective choice with a starting price of $22,040 USD and a 400-mile driving range on a full tank of fuel.
Similarities extend to the brake system, with both vehicles featuring an 11.8-inch vented disc front brake system.
5. Honda HR-V: A Swift Contender
If you’re interested in a vehicle like the Chevy Trailblazer, the Honda HR-V is a worthy competitor.
Much like the Trailblazer, the HR-V offers the choice between a front-wheel drivetrain and an all-wheel drive, making it versatile for various driving conditions.
Both are categorized as compact crossover SUVs, and they share the continuously variable automatic transmission system.
When it comes to performance, the HR-V boasts a 158-horsepower output, reaching 60 miles per hour in just 8.3 seconds, slightly quicker than the Trailblazer.
The HR-V’s dimensions include a 104.5-inch wheelbase, a vehicle length of 179.8 inches, and a width of 72.4 inches.
In terms of fuel efficiency, it holds its own, matching the Trailblazer’s ratings in the city, on the highway, and combined.
However, the HR-V does come with a slightly higher starting price of $23,650 USD compared to the Trailblazer’s $21,600 USD.
If you’re drawn to the Honda brand and the idea of a quick and nimble SUV, the HR-V is an enticing option to consider.
Related: Honda HR-V vs Mazda CX-5
6. Hyundai Kona: A Compact Charmer
The Hyundai Kona is another strong contender in the lineup of vehicles similar to the Chevy Trailblazer.
It kicks off at a competitive starting price of $21,300 USD and shares the convenience of a four-wheel drivetrain, making it an all-weather companion.
Both the Kona and the Trailblazer belong to the subcompact crossover SUV category and can comfortably seat five passengers.
On the highway, they share a fuel efficiency rating of thirty-three miles per gallon, although the Kona offers slightly lower fuel efficiency in the city at twenty-five miles per gallon, compared to the Trailblazer’s twenty-six miles per gallon.
The Kona’s dimensions are slightly smaller, with a length of 165.6 inches and a width of 70.9 inches, while the Trailblazer measures 173.5 inches in length and 71.2 inches in width.
Cargo space is also a point of distinction, with the Kona offering 45.8 cubic feet, whereas the Trailblazer boasts a more capacious 54.4 cubic feet.
If you’re in the market for a compact and cost-effective SUV, the Hyundai Kona is certainly worth considering.
Related: Hyundai Kona vs Mazda CX-30
7. Hyundai Venue: A Budget-Friendly Option
For those seeking an affordable alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer, the Hyundai Venue could be the answer.
This front-wheel compact crossover SUV has a starting price of just $19,000 USD, making it an enticing option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Like the Trailblazer, the Venue features a continuously variable automatic transmission and offers seating for up to five passengers.
With a 121-horsepower output, it accelerates from zero to sixty miles per hour in 8.5 seconds, providing a zippy and efficient driving experience.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Venue performs admirably with a rating of thirty-one miles per gallon on the highway and twenty-nine miles per gallon in the city, aligning closely with the Trailblazer’s ratings.
If you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and compact SUV, the Hyundai Venue is a strong contender in this segment.
8. Jeep Renegade: A Rugged Rival
If you’re a fan of the Jeep brand and want an alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer, the Jeep Renegade is a vehicle that demands your attention.
The Renegade offers a four-wheel drivetrain, similar to the Trailblazer, and both vehicles fall into the compact SUV category.
They provide a five-passenger seating capacity, offering versatility for your daily adventures.
However, the Renegade is slightly shorter and wider than the Trailblazer, with dimensions of a 101.2-inch wheelbase, a length of 166.6 inches, and a width of 74.2 inches.
In terms of performance, the Renegade reaches sixty miles per hour in nine seconds and boasts a 177-horsepower output.
While the Renegade offers a strong performance, its fuel efficiency is not as competitive, with a rating of twenty-nine miles per gallon on the highway and twenty-three miles per gallon in the city.
The starting price is $24,695 USD, making it a compelling option for those who desire ruggedness and style in their SUV.
9. Kia Seltos: The Rising Star
Kia’s 2021 Seltos, the latest addition to their crossover SUV lineup, offers a compelling option for those seeking a subcompact crossover.
With a starting price of $22,995 USD, the Seltos comes with all-wheel drive, setting it apart from the Kia Soul.
It’s slightly larger than the Soul and shares the ability to comfortably accommodate five passengers, just like the Trailblazer.
The Kia Seltos has been winning hearts, earning accolades, and impressing both critics and consumers.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Seltos boasts an impressive highway miles-per-gallon rating of thirty-five, surpassing the Trailblazer’s thirty-three. However, in city driving, the Trailblazer holds a slight edge, even if it’s just by one mile per gallon.
If you’re looking for an SUV with all-wheel drive and a competitive price point, the Kia Seltos is a promising alternative.
Related: Kia Seltos vs Mazda CX-3
10. Kia Soul: A Compact Contender
The Kia Soul, priced at $19,790 USD, is a robust contender among compact crossover SUVs.
Sharing several features with the Chevy Trailblazer, including a front-wheel drivetrain and a capacity for five passengers, the Soul stands out as a versatile and budget-friendly option.
When comparing the Trailblazer to competitors, the Kia Soul often receives mention. The Soul features a 102.4-inch wheelbase, a length of 165.2 inches, and a width of 70.9 inches.
If you appreciate the compact size, affordability, and reputation of the Soul, it’s a strong contender for your consideration.
11. Mazda CX-30: A Balanced Option
The Mazda CX-30 offers a balanced alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer. These two vehicles exhibit similarities in passenger capacity and the front-wheel drivetrain.
The CX-30’s starting price of $22,500 USD positions it slightly higher in the market, but it offers some unique advantages.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Trailblazer excels in city performance, but both vehicles perform identically on the highway, achieving thirty-three miles per gallon.
The CX-30 outshines the Trailblazer in horsepower output, boasting 186 horsepower, while the Trailblazer offers 137. This performance difference can justify the price differential for some buyers.
If you value balanced performance and are willing to invest a bit more, the Mazda CX-30 is worth exploring.
Related: Mazda CX-30 vs Mazda CX-9
12. MINI Cooper Countryman: The Sporty Option
For those seeking a sportier alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer, the MINI Cooper Countryman is a compelling choice.
Both vehicles fall into the compact crossover SUV category, offering a front-wheel drivetrain with an all-wheel-drive option.
The Countryman’s starting price of $34,950 USD places it in a higher price range, but it justifies this cost with swift acceleration.
It can reach sixty miles per hour in just 6.8 seconds, outpacing the Trailblazer’s 9.4 seconds.
While the Trailblazer holds an advantage in city fuel economy, the Countryman surpasses it on the highway by three miles per gallon.
In terms of horsepower, the Countryman is more powerful with 189 horsepower, compared to the Trailblazer’s 155.
The two vehicles offer similar passenger volumes, with the Trailblazer just one cubic inch ahead.
However, the Trailblazer has the upper hand in cargo capacity, boasting twenty-five cubic feet compared to the Countryman’s seventeen cubic feet.
If you’re in search of a sporty and dynamic compact SUV with premium features, the MINI Cooper Countryman is an appealing choice.
13. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: A Worthy Contender
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, with a starting price of $21,795 USD, is a compelling alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer.
Both vehicles fall within the compact crossover SUV classification, making them suitable options for those who value a balance of space and agility.
The Outlander Sport is slightly shorter in length, measuring 171.9 inches, while its width of 71.3 inches barely distinguishes it from the Trailblazer’s 71.2 inches.
The Trailblazer, on the other hand, is longer at 173.7 inches but has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 103.9 inches, compared to the Outlander’s 105.1 inches.
In terms of pricing, the two units are closely matched, with the Outlander Sport starting at $21,795 USD, just slightly above the Trailblazer’s $21,600 USD.
However, when it comes to fuel efficiency, the Trailblazer excels, achieving twenty-eight miles per gallon on the highway and twenty-three miles per gallon in the city.
The Outlander Sport can accelerate to sixty miles per hour in just eight seconds, outpacing the Trailblazer’s 9.4 seconds.
However, when it comes to top speeds, the Trailblazer reaches up to 130 miles per hour, while the Outlander Sport tops out at 123 miles per hour.
Related: Mitsubishi Outlander vs Kia Sorento
14. Nissan Kicks: A Subcompact Option
For those seeking a subcompact alternative to the Chevy Trailblazer, the Nissan Kicks is an intriguing option. Starting at $19,900 USD, the Kicks offers an attractive blend of affordability and style.
In terms of size, the Kicks is slightly smaller than the Trailblazer, measuring 169.1 inches in length compared to the Trailblazer’s 173.7 inches.
It’s also narrower, with a width of 69.3 inches, compared to the Trailblazer’s 71.2 inches. Both units feature a continuously variable automatic transmission and a front-wheel drivetrain.
The Kicks boasts a 122-horsepower output, with a torque performance of 114 pounds per foot, making it a zippy and agile choice.
It can reach sixty miles per hour in just 9.6 seconds, a mere 0.2 seconds slower than the Trailblazer.
If you’re searching for a subcompact SUV that’s both affordable and stylish, the Nissan Kicks is a strong contender.
15. Nissan Rogue Sport: A Compact Choice
The Nissan Rogue Sport, starting at $24,760 USD, is another alternative in the compact crossover SUV category.
With a horsepower rating of 141, based on 6,000 revs per minute, and torque performance of 147 pounds per foot, based on 4,400 revs per minute, it delivers a balanced and capable driving experience.
Both the Trailblazer and Rogue Sport can comfortably seat five passengers, with the Rogue Sport offering ninety-four cubic feet of passenger space, compared to the Trailblazer’s ninety-eight cubic feet.
Cargo volume is slightly smaller, with the Rogue Sport offering twenty cubic feet, five cubic feet less than the Trailblazer.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Rogue Sport achieves twenty-five miles per gallon in the city and a competitive thirty-two miles per gallon on the highway.
If you’re searching for a compact SUV that balances space and performance, the Nissan Rogue Sport is a worthy alternative.
Related: Nissan Rogue vs Ford Escape
16. Subaru Crosstrek: A Versatile Option
The Subaru Crosstrek, starting at $23,645 USD, shares a classification with the Chevy Trailblazer in the crossover SUV department.
Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, and while the base model of the Crosstrek features a manual transmission, automatic transmission options are available for a higher cost.
The Crosstrek’s horsepower output is very similar to the Trailblazer, with a rating of 137 at 5,000 revs per minute. Like the Trailblazer, different trims offer varying levels of luxury and performance.
Related: Subaru Crosstrek vs Mazda CX-30
17. Toyota C-HR: A Compact Contender
Starting at $24,130 USD, the Toyota C-HR is a compact crossover SUV that shares a common classification with the Chevy Trailblazer.
While it may take a bit longer to reach sixty miles per hour, clocking in at eleven seconds, the two vehicles share a matching wheelbase measurement of 103.9 inches.
The C-HR is slightly shorter in length, measuring 171.2 inches, and a tad slimmer at 70.7 inches. Both vehicles feature a front-wheel drivetrain, making them suitable for city and highway driving.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the C-HR is particularly city-friendly, achieving twenty-seven miles per gallon, while the highway rating is thirty-one miles per gallon.
If you’re looking for a compact SUV with a distinct style, the Toyota C-HR is an excellent choice.
18. Toyota Corolla Cross: Versatile and Spacious
The Toyota Corolla Cross, starting at $22,445 USD, is another option within the compact crossover SUV category, sharing many similarities with the Chevy Trailblazer.
Both vehicles have identical wheelbase measurements, but the Corolla Cross is slightly longer at 175.6 inches compared to the Trailblazer’s 173.7 inches.
While the Trailblazer measures 71.2 inches in width, the Corolla Cross is a bit wider at 71.9 inches.
The Corolla Cross offers an all-wheel-drive option, distinguishing it from the Trailblazer, which offers both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options.
In terms of speed performance, the Corolla Cross can reach sixty miles per hour in 9.2 seconds, a score very close to the Trailblazer’s 9.4 seconds.
The Trailblazer, however, boasts a top speed of 130 miles an hour, providing a competitive edge.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Corolla Cross is more city-friendly, with a rating of twenty-nine miles per gallon, while the Trailblazer is close behind with a city rating of twenty-six miles per gallon.
Related: Toyota Corolla vs Volkswagen Golf
19. Volkswagen Taos: A Sporty Alternative
The Volkswagen Taos, with a starting price of $23,495 USD, offers a slightly different driving experience compared to the Chevy Trailblazer.
It has a quicker acceleration time, reaching sixty miles per hour in just seven seconds. However, the Trailblazer outpaces it when it comes to top speed, hitting a maximum of 130 miles per hour.
In terms of fuel economy, the two vehicles are closely matched in the city and on the highway. The Taos features a front-wheel drivetrain, just like the Trailblazer. It’s slightly longer at 175.8 inches and a bit wider at 72.5 inches.
This extra space provides ample passenger room, accommodating up to five people, and a generous cargo volume of twenty-eight cubic feet.
If you’re searching for a sporty and dynamic compact SUV, the Volkswagen Taos is a strong contender.
Related: Volkswagen Taos vs Audi Q3
20. Volvo XC40: A Premium Option
The Volvo XC40, starting at $34,100 USD, stands out as a premium choice among compact SUVs. While it has a higher starting price than the Chevy Trailblazer, it offers several shared characteristics.
Both vehicles are front-wheel drive units and have the capacity to accommodate five passengers. They both fall into the compact crossover SUV category.
The XC40 boasts a top speed of 131 miles per hour, just one mile per hour ahead of the Trailblazer.
In terms of acceleration, the XC40 takes the lead, reaching sixty miles per hour in 6.2 seconds, outpacing the Trailblazer’s 9.4 seconds.
While the Trailblazer holds a slight advantage in fuel economy, it’s only by a one-mile-per-gallon average.
If you’re searching for a premium compact SUV with enhanced performance, the Volvo XC40 is a strong alternative.
Related: Volvo XC40 vs Toyota RAV4
FAQs
Is A Trailblazer A Good Car?
Yes, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer is considered a good small SUV, offering a spacious interior, ample cargo capacity, and a wide range of standard features, all at an affordable starting price of around $22,000. Its user-friendly infotainment system adds to its appeal.
Is a Chevy Trailblazer a reliable car?
Based on data from 2021 models, the 2023 TrailBlazer is expected to be more reliable than the average new car.
Which Chevy Trailblazer year is best?
Some of the best years for the Chevy Trailblazer include 2008 and 2009 for their solid reliability scores and affordability. Additionally, the 2006 model is notable for its family-friendly third-row seating.
Do Chevy Trailblazers have transmission problems?
One common transmission issue in Chevy Trailblazers is a worn or broken 4L60E 2-4 transmission band, which can result in a slow 1-2 shift or excessive engine revving between 2nd and 3rd gear.
Is a Chevy Trailblazer expensive to insure?
Auto insurance for a Chevrolet Trailblazer typically costs around $1,633 per year, which is $592 less than the national average for popular SUV models.
Does the Chevy Trailblazer hold its value?
After 5 years of depreciation, the average residual value for a Chevrolet Trailblazer is expected to be $17,932, representing the vehicle’s retail market price. Trade-in and private sale prices are likely to be lower.
Final Thoughts: Chevy Trailblazer Competitors
In the realm of compact SUVs, the Chevy Trailblazer shines as a versatile and stylish choice. However, the automotive market is brimming with enticing alternatives that cater to a range of preferences and priorities.
From the Buick Encore GX’s shared GM heritage to the MINI Cooper Countryman’s compact luxury, there’s a world of choices awaiting discerning drivers.
The Kia Seltos and the Kia Soul offer compelling options, while the Mazda CX-30 strikes a balance between performance and efficiency. The Nissan Rogue Sport provides practicality, and the Subaru Crosstrek promises versatility.
Whether you seek the efficiency of the Toyota C-HR, the well-rounded Toyota Corolla Cross, or the stylish Volkswagen Taos, there’s something for everyone.
For those with a penchant for premium, the Volvo XC40 introduces a touch of luxury into the mix. With each of these alternatives to the Chevy Trailblazer, you’ll find a unique blend of features, performance, and style.
As you embark on your journey to discover cars similar to the Chevy Trailblazer, the right choice awaits, perfectly aligned with your driving needs and style.
Explore this diverse spectrum of compact SUVs, test drive your favorites, and embrace the driving experience that resonates with you.
The world of cars similar to the Chevy Trailblazer offers a wealth of opportunities to elevate your driving adventures to the next level.
