Blazing a trail slickly - and comfortably

Chevrolet is quickly expanding its product line-up in the Asean region, particularly in the Thai market.

After launching the Colorado pickup truck last year, the American auto-maker has launched the PPV (Pickup Passenger Vehicle) version of the truck. The Trailblazer, priced from Bt1.059 to Bt1.489 million, jumps into the fierce PPV market that is dominated by the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu Mu-7 and the Mitsubishi Sport Rider.

According to Chevrolet, engineers spent months living in countries where the Trailblazer was destined for, in order to make sure they knew exactly what customers wanted and needed.

I actually fancy the design of the Trailblazer, which appears like a real SUV with its wide stance. The front is sharp while the wrap-around rear windshield gives the Trailblazer a contemporary look.

Like the Colorado, there are two engine choices available. The 2.5-litre motor produces 150hp and 350Nm while the 2.8-litre model I drove pumps out 180hp and a massive 470Nm of torque.

The continuous flow of torque is available from below 2,000rpm and gives the Trailblazer steady acceleration over the rpm range. The large amount of torque also means that the Trailblazer is capable of towing heavy objects, such as jetskis or boats, comfortably.

Transmission is a 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode providing smooth shifts and also contributing to good acceleration.

The all-wheel-drive system features shift-on-the-fly and a low ratio gear for off-road driving. Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control makes it easy to drive up and down steep inclines.

The Trailblazer comes with a long list of assistance systems, notably anti-fade brakes with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist and Cornering Brake Control. Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control is also offered. Ventilated disc brakes are offered both front and rear.

The ride is pretty comfy, with a five-link rear axle and there are stabilisers both front and rear that keep the Trailblazer’s road manners tidy.

The interior is fully loaded with features such as onboard computer, cruise control, automatic climate control (rear passengers also get their own controls), entertainment and nagivation system with touchscreen and DVD player, USB and MP3 inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, foldable second and third row seats, and as many as 32 storage compartments including a covered centre bin that you can place valuables in. There is also a multi-function steering wheel offering a nice feel, although the controls are not illuminated at night.

The luggage compartment is wide enough to store golf bags, thanks to the indent that has been thought of by Thai staff responding to the nature of markets in this region.

Chevrolet hopes that the Trailblazer will effectively penetrate the PPV market and I think it has what it takes to win a good portion of customers.

 

Chevrolet Trailblazer 2.8 LTZ

Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC 

16-valve diesel with turbocharger and intercooler

Displacement: 2,778cc

Bore and stroke: 94x100mm

Compression ratio: 16.0:1

Max power: 180ps/3,800rpm

Max torque: 470Nm/2,000rpm

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Suspension (f/r): double-wishbone, gas shocks, stabiliser; 

5-link, gas shocks, stabiliser

Brakes (f/r): vented discs/vented discs

 

Dimensions (mm)

Length: 4,878

Width: 1,802

Height: 1,847

Wheelbase: 2,845

Track (f/r): 1,570/1,570

Min clearance: 217

Wheels: 18-in alloy

Tires: 265/60 R18

Price: Bt1.489 million

Distributor: 

Chevrolet Sales (Thailand)