Chev Trailblazer a proven powerplant
New flagship truly a ‘must-have’
CHEVROLET has always had a card up its sleeve with “must-have” performance models available. The new flagship Z71 Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4x4 AT is one of these models. Launched recently, the new performance model fits perfectly in the 2017 model year range which now comprises five manual and automatic versions of the rear-wheel-drive 2.5-litre LT, rear and four-wheel-drive auto and manual versions of the 2.8 LTZ and a new flagship in the shape of the Z71, which is based on the LTZ 4x4.
The price band is from R464 000 to R623 200 for the Z71, which pays homage to Chevrolet’s rich “Zee” car performance heritage.
The LTZ Z71 gets “blacked-out” wheels, door handles and mirrors along with a unique decal treatment.
This top-of-the-range model comes equipped with the proven 2.8-litre Duramax Turbo-diesel (VGT) engine, which boasts 144kW, and a class-leading 500Nm of torque.
GM says no other body-on-frame SUV on the market can match this proven powerplant when it comes to torque output, which makes tackling even the toughest on-road as well as off-road challenges a walk in the park for the Trailblazer.
The combined fuel consumption figure provided by GM for models with this engine is 9.5-litre/100km. CO2 is 249g/km.
Petrolheads who hanker after power, will not be disappointed. Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h takes 10.4 seconds with a top speed limited to 180km/h. Not bad for a big heavy seven-seater!
There is also a choice of either a six-speed automatic transmission with manual selection mode and grade braking or a six-speed manual. All models have a 76-litre fuel tank.
All Trailblazer models (bar the 2.5 manual – 2 515kg) can legally pull a braked trailer weighing 2 965kg.
LTZ models are available with optional four-wheel drive with low range, the default set-up on the Z71. Changing between the two-high, four-high, and four-low drive modes is just a turn of a dial away.
Brakes are equipped with four-channel ABS with electronic brake force distribution.
Brakes are 300mm ventilated discs in front and 295mm discs at the rear.
The new Trailblazer is now fitted with an all-new Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system.
The new system features Active Pull and Smooth Road Shake Compensation which all add to a smoother, more refined driving experience, as World of Wheels experienced during the recent test period.
Active Pull Compensation constantly measures steering wheel torque being applied by the driver to maintain the vehicle’s path.
When the software detects extra effort being used, the steering assist motor adds torque in the proper direction to prevent the driver from having to make corrections to keep the vehicle on course.
The torque assistance makes steering easier, thus reducing driver fatigue and effort.
Then there is another innovation which we liked. Smooth Road Shake Compensation reduces steering wheel vibration.
The rotational vibration transmitted to the steering wheel is referred to as Smooth Road Shake and is a phenomenon that occurs only at highway speeds and on smooth roads.
The Trailblazer is fitted with its intelligent tumble flat seven-seat configuration, generous equipment, excellent safety levels and established engines backed up by Chevrolet’s Complete Care after sales package with a best-in-class five-year/120 000km warranty and a highly-competitive five-year and 90 000km service plan
World of Wheels came away very impressed with Z71 Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4x4 AT.
Price: Z71 Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4x4 AT R623 200.