The Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV has come under the knife for 2014, with all five existing models receiving substantial specification enhancements. I spent time in the 2.8 Druamax LTZ model in the majestic Lowveld area. The Chevy proved to be comfortable and perfect for those weekend trips away when you need a lot of space for all your friends…
The Trailblazer has forged a solid reputation in South Africa since launch in 2012, with versatility, off-road ability and on-road stability strengthening the nameplate in the demanding South African market.
For the 2014 model year, all Trailblazer models feature enhanced specifications which add value and class to the already well-specced range. All LTZ derivatives now feature a reversing camera as standard. All models also benefit from changes on the inside, with a new Dark Ash Grey interior colour scheme available along with front side airbags mounted in the seats.
The updated Chevrolet Trailblazer also features a new, multi-information central LCD display panel which features the usual trip computer readouts as well as two new menus for additional vehicle particulars. The vehicle information display imparts critical information such as battery voltage, an adjustable speed warning, transmission fluid temperature (particularly important for off-roading), engine hours and an oil life indicator.
The additional economy gauges include an instantaneous throttle position indicator which indicates when economical driving is being achieved, as well as a historical fuel economy graph which shows fuel consumption history for the last 50 km. Both these features are geared to encourage more economical driving habits.
The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system which debuted earlier in 2014 in the Chevrolet Sonic RS is now also available in the Chevrolet Trailblazer, fitted as standard to all derivatives. MyLink brings smartphone technology to the Trailblazer with a large 7-inch touch screen display and a host of media capabilities. Video and picture playback, full audio format support linked to six speakers, USB and aux integration, as well as Bluetooth for hands-free cellphone use and audio streaming, join Chevrolet MyLink’s downloadable app set which allow for an increasing array of integrated media use including Internet-based radio.
With four of the five Trailblazer derivatives featuring powerful turbocharged diesel engines, the 2014 line-up now benefits from uprated outputs from both the 2.5-litre and 2.8-litre Duramax diesel motors. The 2.5D LT model now makes use of 120 kW (up by 9%) and 380 Nm (up by 8.5%). The 2.8D LTZ models, available in either 4×2 or 4×4 guise, also see hikes in power from the proven Duramax turbocharged diesel engine, which now produces 144 kW (up 9%). Automatic 2.8D LTZ models receive further enhancement in the form of a torque increase of 30 Nm to 500 Nm.
The 2.8 Duramax retails at R521,600, which is on par with the equivalent Toyota, but it comes with more standard features, has 20kW more power and a whopping 157Nm more torque. I reckon it’s well worth a look.
