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2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer
2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Blazing a Paved Trail
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer is able to outrun most other people-movers, especially in V8-powered SS guise.
The standard TrailBlazer model comes with one of two basic trim and equipment packages: the base LS and more well-appointed LT, which has extras like a leather steering wheel and dual climate controls.
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Then there’s the TrailBlazer SS, which is the focus of this review. It’s a completely different animal, following the time-honored muscle-car formula of wedging the largest engine available under the hood of a family vehicle.
The TrailBlazer SS is powered by a Corvette-derived, 390-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 engine coupled with to a heavy-duty, four-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain places the TrailBlazer SS in the heady company of much costlier, performance-minded SUVs, including the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne.
And to put this power boost in perspective, keep in mind that the base 291-hp, 4.2-liter six-cylinder engine in the standard TrailBlazer is already more powerful than some competing V8s — it even feels like a V8 when you press the accelerator. The standard TrailBlazer can also be ordered with a 5.3-liter V8 engine that produces 300 hp.
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS features a performance-oriented suspension with rear air shocks and a lowered ride height. Wide, polished aluminum wheels and low-profile tires also help handling, but the trade-off is a harsher ride than in the standard TrailBlazer. An upgraded, electronically controlled transmission on the TrailBlazer SS is designed to handle high horsepower and torque loads while delivering smooth shifting.
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Cosmetically, the TrailBlazer SS goes for a sleek look that features a monochromatic color scheme, with mirrors and door handles all painted the body color. It is stripped of exterior accoutrements like body moldings and a roof rack, which Chevy says would add to the visual weight of the vehicle.
All TrailBlazer models come with rear-wheel drive or a sophisticated, full-time all-wheel-drive system. The standard TrailBlazer’s four-wheel-drive system is more traditional and designed for off-roading, whereas the SS model’s system is meant for slicing up ribbons of road.
• See the Chevrolet TrailBlazer Vehicle Summary
Four-wheel antilock disc brakes and General Motors’ StabiliTrak stability control system are standard. The TrailBlazer is no slouch in the towing department, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,700 pounds with rear-wheel drive, and 6,500 pounds with all-wheel drive.
The interior affords adequate comfort and comes moderately equipped. Among the signature features on the TrailBlazer SS are a prominent, silver-faced tachometer (which measures engine speed in rpms), embroidered seat backs and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Head-curtain airbags for both rows of seats are optional.
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Some of the latest high-tech gear, like a rearview camera and laser-guided cruise control, are still not offered. But optional items like a DVD player, satellite navigation system and leather seats can help turn the TrailBlazer into a premium SUV.
You want the utility of a truck, but with sporty performance and handling.
You require seating for seven; fuel economy is a top concern; you frequently drive on rough terrain or tow a large trailer; a high-performance sedan or wagon would better suit your needs and tastes.
Five adults will find the passenger compartment accommodating.
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8; Land Rover Range Rover Sport; Porsche Cayenne
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