Tech injection for Trailblazer
Chevy’s SUV updated with loads of safety and comfort features STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 BUY CENTRE
GENERAL Motors South Africa has updated its Chevrolet Trailblazer seven-seater SUV with a major makeover in a bid to better take on the market-leading Toyota Fortuner.
Four years after its launch here the newly fettled range comes with a fresher new look, an interior with a new dash and improved connectivity, the addition of some high-tech safety, and two new derivatives.
Newly-added driver aids on upper-spec LTZ versions include forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert and tyre pressure monitoring.
As before, safety equipment across the range includes ABS brakes, seven airbags, and ISOFIX child seat anchors, with LTZ models also equipped with stability control, hill descent control and trailer sway control.
A rugged SUV built on the Isuzu KB bakkie platform, the revamped Trailblazer attempts to be more carlike with a newly designed dashboard and front console with a more upmarket feel, enhanced by soft-touch materials and contrast stitching.
Improved sound-deadening provides a more hushed cabin ambience, while leather upholstery is standard Midlife makeover happens more under the surface. throughout the range.
The infotainment has taken a further step into the 21st century with the second-generation MyLink system now Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatible, allowing smartphone apps (including Google Maps navigation) to be displayed on the car’s 7-inch screen.
Normal Bluetooth connectivity remains, while LTZ versions already have a factory-fitted satellite navigation system.
The engine line up comprises 2.5 and 2.8 litre turbodiesels as before, but two new derivatives are added: a 2.5-litre LT model in six-speed auto (formerly available only in manual), and a 2.8 LTZ Z71 4x4 auto.
The 2.5 LT auto uses an upgraded version of the Duramax engine with outputs of 132kW and 440Nm, compared to the 2.5 six-speed manual which soldiers on with 120kW and 380Nm as previously.
The 2.8-litre engine is unchanged and provides 144kW and 500Nm of lugging power, but the manual version falls away, leaving just the auto.
All Trailblazer models (bar the 2.5 manual - 2515kg) can legally pull a braked trailer weighing 2 965 kilograms.
Based on the LTZ 4x4, the new Z71 derivative is the new flagship and is visually distinguished by its blackedout wheels, door handles and mirrors along with a unique decal treatment.
The entire range gets a visual makeover in the form of a new bon- net, headlights and lower valance, and new daytime running lights (LED on the LTZ).
A ‘gradient braking’ function assists drivers with maintaining speed on difficult down hills, and a traction-enhancing limited slip differential also remains a feature of all models.
In the four wheel drive versions, switching between two-high, fourhigh, and four-low drive is done by a convenient dial twist.
Chev’s updated SUV gets a new Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system with Active Pull and Smooth Road Shake Compensation for a smoother driving experience.
When Active Pull detects the driver using extra steering effort it adds torque in the same direction to reduce driver fatigue, while Smooth Road Shake Compensation reduces steering vibration caused by an imbalance from the front wheels.
A feature available on auto models is Remote Vehicle Start which allows the Trailblazer to be started from outside using the buttons on the key fob, allowing the climate control system and rear demister to start working before you get into the car. In this mode, the vehicle remains locked and cannot be driven until the key is inserted into the ignition slot.
As before the Trailblazer is sold with 5-year/120 000km warranty and 5-year and 90 000km service plan.
The midlife update comes with an inevitable price increase. The line up previously sold for between R451 500 and R591 500, and now ranges from R464 000 to R623 200.