Today, The model we’re reviewing is the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer LS trim, which is the base model, dressed in the all-new Marina Blue Metallic color for 2025. This color is easily one of my favorites across modern Chevys. While stunning, the Trailblazer isn’t perfect, and today I’ll be sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
What to Expect in This Review
In this review, you can expect:
- A detailed walkaround
- Specifications
- Initial driving impressions
- 0-to-60 mph GPS results
- Final thoughts
A big thanks to Twin Falls Chevy for letting me borrow this Trailblazer for the day. If you’re interested, they sell below MSRP and ship across the country. Now, let’s dive into the review!
The 2025 Trailblazer: A Quick Overview
For those unfamiliar with the modern Chevy Trailblazer, it’s a far cry from the V8, rear-wheel-drive performance SUVs of 20 years ago.
This generation debuted in 2021, making 2025 its fifth model year. After a refresh in 2024, which updated the front end to align with Chevy’s current aggressive design language, the Trailblazer now serves as a compact crossover.
Built for the North American market in South Korea (VIN numbers start with “K”), the Trailblazer sells between 60,000 to 100,000 units annually. The base LS front-wheel-drive model starts at approximately $23,000 before destination and delivery fees. The specific model we’re reviewing, however, is closer to $30,000 due to its larger engine and all-wheel-drive capabilities. Higher trims like the RS or Activ can reach the low $30,000 range.
Safety and Features
This compact crossover features a five-star crash test rating and comes equipped with an array of safety features, including:
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Pedestrian Braking
These features, combined with its stunning Marina Blue Metallic paint, make the Trailblazer a solid option at this price point.
Engine Options and Performance
One aspect that sets the Trailblazer apart is its engine lineup. The base model comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine producing 137 horsepower.
If you opt for all-wheel drive, you’ll get a slightly larger 1.3-liter turbo engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. While these engines are small, they pack a punch for their size, especially with Chevy’s history of turbocharged reliability.
The Trailblazer’s performance figures are respectable:
- 0-to-60 mph: 9.42 seconds (at 5,000 feet above sea level)
- Towing capacity: 1,000 lbs
- Payload capacity: 943 lbs
With a compact size of about 14.5 feet in length and a weight of 3,300 pounds, the Trailblazer is agile, easy to park, and stable on the road.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the Trailblazer feels surprisingly nimble. The compact dimensions and responsive steering make it a joy to drive in urban environments. The 1.3-liter engine, paired with a 9-speed transmission, revs quickly and sounds sporty, although long-term reliability remains a question mark for this relatively new platform.
Fuel efficiency is adequate but not class-leading:
- 26 mpg city
- 29 mpg highway
The 13.2-gallon fuel tank offers a maximum range of about 380 miles. While competitors may offer better MPG, the turbo engine performs well at high altitudes, making it a great choice for those living above sea level.
Interior Features
The Trailblazer’s interior is functional but basic, especially in the LS trim. Highlights include:
- A manually adjustable cloth seat
- A larger 11-inch infotainment screen
- Physical controls for key features like Lane Keep Assist and Sport Mode
- A clear and responsive backup camera
However, there are trade-offs. The lack of proximity key features, heated seats, and luxurious materials remind you this is an entry-level model. Rear seat passengers also miss out on amenities like ventilation and a center armrest.
Cargo Space and Practicality
The Trailblazer offers 25 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands with the 60/40 split rear seats folded. Accessing the cargo area is easy, thanks to the low load floor and a liftgate supported by shocks. Beneath the cargo floor, you’ll find a temporary spare tire and additional storage.
Overall, The 2025 Chevy Trailblazer continues to improve each year. With its refreshed design, new Marina Blue Metallic paint, and E85 compatibility, it’s a solid compact crossover for under $30,000. While it has limitations—like the small engine and basic interior features—it excels in safety, practicality, and drivability.
If you value a sporty, nimble vehicle with Chevy’s reliability, the Trailblazer is worth considering. A big thank you to Twin Falls Chevy for providing this model. If you have any thoughts or questions, comment below.
