If you’re a little confused about the new Chevrolet Trailblazer, that’s OK, it’s understandable. The Trailblazer was first manufactured by General Motors, produced between 2002 and 2009. It was a midsized SUV that was based on Chevy’s Colorado pickup.

In 2020, it burst back on the scene as a compact SUV that is similar in style to Chevrolet’s Blazer but in a smaller size. More confusion may come from its name. In using the old name Trailblazer for its brand-new compact SUV, Chevrolet may cause drivers to think that this is a more powerful, off-road type SUV. That is not the case at all; in fact, the Trailblazer is a light-duty SUV designed mainly for city driving.

The Trailblazer road test

When reviewing the brand new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer, the Consumer Reports test driver was satisfied with the vehicle. Consumer Reports noted that one of the best things about this small SUV was that its upright design made for more interior room without increasing the vehicle’s footprint. The road test also revealed a peppy drive when cruising around the city, and they were impressed by its key standard safety features. 

The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer’s reliability

Consumer Reports judge reliability by how well vehicles have performed in the past. Their reliability ratings are based on information from their subscribers on model years 2000 through 2019. The base their ratings on potential problem areas such as the engine, brakes, transmission, power equipment, and electrical systems. When Consumer Reports gives an N/A reliability rating, it means they don’t have enough data about a new model to make a judgment. 

Will the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer be a reliable vehicle? Since the Chevy Trailblazer is a new model, Consumer Reports won’t have detailed statistics about its reliability until a later date. Judging by the past few model years of the mechanically similar Chevy Blazer, owners should have confidence in the Trailblazer. The mechanically similar 2018 Chevrolet Trax got a three out of five reliability rating from Consumer Reports with the main issues being with the suspension and paint.

The new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer is a spacious SUV for its small size and looks nothing like its predecessor of the same name from 2009. Drivers can choose from 5 different trims with various exterior styling elements that set them apart from each other. If you’re looking for a striking, modern look, choose the ACTIV or RS models, which both have a standard unique two-toned roof. Other styling cues include modern side creases and a solid stance.

One of the selling features of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is the surprising amount of room inside. The Trailblazer has best-in-class rear legroom, as well as 60/40 split-folding rear seats for added cargo room. For long items like skis or kayaks, there’s an available fold-flat front seats that lets you accommodate objects up to 8.5-feet long.

The 2021 Chevy Trailblazer has full connectivity for the modern world. Bluetooth means there are no wires involved, and the Trailblazer offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Chevrolet’s infotainment system. Advanced safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and front pedestrian detection and braking.

Other driver-assist features include lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning, a rear-vision camera, a following distance indicator, and a rear-seat reminder. It even has Teen Driver technology that helps our youngest drivers stay safe.

Even though Consumer Reports can’t give us a reliability rating for the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer yet, it promises to be another good addition to the Chevrolet SUV lineup.