Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2002 Chevy Trail Blazer. Can you believe the year is just about gone? In any case, it’s been a while since I drove this model, and when I think of an SUV I always think of the Blazer as a major contender right behind the granddaddy of them all, the Jeep. Also, I owned one back in the 1980’s when there were very few SUV’s being produced and by only a few carmakers.
Today just about every manufacturer has entered the market that is simply too large to ignore even if this huge gas-guzzler is sure to run into trouble when gas prices rise to world levels. I suspect car companies have decided we’ll learn to live with the cost increases and eat less or sleep in the rear of our beloved SUV. I don’t think so, but only time will tell.
Not much has changed in the overall features and functionality of the SUV except the 4X4 is more transparent to the driver. Most are “on-demand” now and of course they are more luxurious as the popularity of this versatile “Car/Truck” spreads to the rich and famous. They now can buy a high end Mercedes, Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, Infiniti, Lincoln and even Hummer at prices ranging from $50-100,000.
Of course when you spend that much for the vehicle, gas prices and poor vehicle gas economy aren’t as important. That’s what I call a regressive tax. Lower income folks pay proportionately more to drive to work if they opt for the safety and convenience of the SUV’s they made popular.
Handling & Performance:
hey all handle pretty much the same unless you believe the poor roll over rating Mitsubishi’s SUV got recently. I drove it and never felt in danger, but then I’ve also driven the Ford SUV’s with Firestone tires and don’t see what all the hoopla is about either. I did however agree with the roll over problems of the Suzuki Samari several years ago because they were simply too top heavy and the track was not wide enough. I never felt comfortable in that little SUV.
Some differentiation exists however in this new 2002 Trail Blazer. One that shines through is its rocket acceleration provided by a 270 horsepower six-cylinder engine. It is flat impressive for this class vehicle. Secondly, the new design sets that engine 6 inches lower that promises to add significantly to the stability of this model. Since I tested it on and off road I’m confident about its great ride characteristics. The only real negative that surfaced is that the power steering is a little light and loosey-goosey. I like to feel the road a bit more and if the power assist is too dominant you lose that feel.
Styling:
Grandfather Jeep will always be the standard by which I will compare all SUV’s. They really don’t get any better even considering Mercedes and Lexus who have tried to combine the design to be even more car like. At the same time Nissan Xterra figures the youth of the world will embrace the rugged off road and out of doors lifestyle. In any case, this Trail Blazer looks great and instills confidence in the overall package Chevrolet is delivering to us consumers. It’s classy while retaining its image as a capable off road contender.
Fit and Finish:
First cabin. You can’t really find fault with the attention to detail that gives the Trail Blazer that super solid feel. That wasn’t always the case with the early Blazers like the one I owned, while not a bucket of bolts it was unsophisticated and rather basic by comparison.
Conveniences:
Top of the heap.
Cost:
Ditto. You have to pay for all those goodies.
Recommendation:
If you’ve got the bucks and like GM and specifically Chevrolet, this is a very classy Sport Utility. All are priced very close and though I’ve driven them all, the menu is large and my appetite could be satisfied with any of them. Personal preference in styling and manufacturer will be your best guide. Some say “Buy American” and since the quality is real close now I would tend to support the US Economy and help us to reduce our balance of trade.
The Competition:
Dodge Durango $26,650-28,770, Ford Explorer $21,165-34,085, Honda Passport $23,000-30,500, Isuzu Rodeo $18,290-31,730, Jeep Grand Cherokee $27,300-35,095, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $22,747-32,777, Nissan Pathfinder $27,349-31,799, Toyota 4Runner $26,335-36,105.
Good News:
Nice styling, super performance, as good as they get.
Bad News:
Poor gas mileage, running boards that are pointless and the steering is a little loose feeling.
Standard Equipment:
4.2 liter 270 hp inline 6 cylinder engine, auto transmission, dual front and side airbags, ABS brakes, air-conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt wheel, cruise control, power leather seats, radio with cassette and CD player, luggage rack,
Gas Stats:
Not published. My guess -“not good”
18 City and 22 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $33,730.
