THE new 2017 Chevrolet Trailblazer brings together superior levels of refinement, styling, comfort and technology with class-leading performance and drivability to meet the versatile needs of increasingly discerning drivers. The midsize sport utility vehicle is ready to take its driver anywhere by offering off-road capabilities combined with premium ride and handling dynamics.
On the outside, the new Trailblazer’s more angular lines exude a refined toughness, while retaining strong proportions that underline its go-anywhere capability. Most notable of these features are the front grille, bumper and lamps that come with daytime running lights, giving a unique light signature to the model.
Inside, the Trailblazer boasts a newly designed dashboard and front console with a contemporary feel, enhanced by soft-touch materials and contrast stitching. The full seven-seater’s “theater-style seating” allows second- and third-row occupants a better all-around view, while individually controlled air-conditioning ensures maximum comfort in the summer months.
The new Trailblazer comes with a 3.6L engine tuned to offer better performance and improved fuel economy, which produces 275 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.
Complementing the improved engine is a tougher, more rigid chassis and fully boxed frame, which are designed to improve ride stability and drive comfort through unparalleled driver control.
Additionally, the new Trailblazer features Electric Power Steering (EPS) that makes steering effort lighter in the city and at parking speeds. This is achieved by reducing power assist proportionately as speed builds, so the driver gets a properly weighted steering feel at highway speeds. Over long distances, this technology makes up the track gradient and reduces judder generated by the imbalance of the wheels.
To ensure the ride is as quiet as it is refined, the Trailblazer benefits from a new wind noise package that was developed with newly redesigned door, window and windshield seals; front door glass that is 10 percent thicker; and a new aerodynamic headlamp design. As a result, the Trailblazer is 8 percent quieter on the road than its predecessor.
Safety remains Chevrolet’s number one priority. The new Trailblazer comes with a host of active and passive safety features that include the Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Panic Brake Assist (PBA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Anti-Rolling Protection and Trailer Sway Control. This is in addition to front airbags for the driver and passenger.
Other technological features which can be found on the Trailblazer include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Front Parking Assist, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It also features the remote-start function, a useful feature in the region’s hot climate. The engine can be started using the key fob, allowing the cabin to be cooled sufficiently before occupants enter the vehicle.
Recognizing the importance of connectivity to today’s drivers, the new Trailblazer is fitted with new technologies usually found in the premium segment, such as Apple CarPlay®. This allows the driver or passengers to project a simplified version of their smartphone screen onto the car's color touchscreen. Complemented by Siri Eyes Free and voice recognition software, the driver can give verbal commands – ensuring his or her hands never have to leave the steering wheel.
The new Trailblazer boasts an improved interior and exterior, reduced cabin and engine noise, and enhanced technology and safety features, while maintaining the SUV’s serious off-road capability, aligning it with the successful trucks offered by Chevrolet.
From the beginning, the team was given a clear mission to “put our customers at the center of everything we do” so they set out to make the new Trailblazer a segment leader in the region.
To ensure world-class quality, significant improvements were made to GM’s manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand. This includes, process improvements, additional automation, tighter process controls, improved design robustness, increased error proofing, in-depth Program Quality Readiness Reviews, and a true passion for quality across the entire team. As a result of these improvements, the facility was awarded Global Certification – becoming one of GM’s top plants worldwide.
All 2017 Trailblazer owners will receive a new level of customer experience courtesy of Chevrolet Complete Care. The comprehensive aftersales package promises additional value with competitive and transparent maintenance pricing; one-hour servicing; 2 days advanced booking; a regional 3-year/100,000-km warranty; and 4 years of regional 24x7 roadside assistance.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest automotive brands, doing business in more than 115 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and pickups a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heartbeat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. The Chevrolet portfolio for the Middle East features award-winning passenger cars such as the Spark, Sonic, Cruze, Malibu, Impala, Camaro and Corvette; crossovers such as the Captiva, Trax and Traverse; and, SUVs and pickups including the Tahoe and Silverado. Chevrolet also offers customers a high-level aftersales service experience through Chevrolet Complete Care. – SG
