Blazing Trails of a Different Sort: 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS
We finally got some wheel time with one of Chevy’s latest SUVs. Chevy revived the Trailblazer name in 2021 for this small crossover aimed at urban life, that won’t really be blazing many trails off road. However, with push-button AWD, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a turbocharged 3-cylinder engine in a small platform, it is a fun little vehicle on the streets.
NEED TO KNOW
- The Trailblazer RS is styled aggressively but is fundamentally an urban crossover, not a trail-capable SUV.
- The writer calls it a ‘fun little vehicle on the streets’ — the emphasis is squarely on city driving enjoyment.
- Its three-cylinder turbo engine is best suited to stop-and-go traffic; highway driving exposes the power limits.
- Front seat fold-flat cargo mode creates an impressively long 8.5-foot load floor for a small crossover.
- Buyers wanting genuine off-road ability should look elsewhere despite the adventurous nameplate.
We tested this 2023 RS model with racier looks inspired by the Camaro and larger Blazer SUV. The RS trim gets blacked out grilles, badging, and bowties front and rear, sportier looking wheels, and a RED roof! Inside, red accents abound making this playful vehicle look more aggressively styled from the driver’s seat.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS Specs:
• 1.3L Turbocharged 3-cylinder Engine
• 155 Horsepower
• 174 lb-ft of Torque
• 9-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Push-Button All Wheel Drive
• Seating for 5
• Heated Front Cloth and Leatherette Seats
• Automatic Climate Controls
• 54.4 Cubic Feet of Storage Front Seats with Rear Seats Folded
• 8.5 feet of Storage Capabilities with Front Passenger Seat Folded Flat• 8-inch Color Touchscreen Infotainment with Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Proximity Key with Push Button Start
• Power Tailgate
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Rear Park Assist
• Teen Driver Mode
• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• 18-inch Wheels
• EPA Fuel Economy 26/30/28 (city/hwy/combined)
• 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+
• Starting MSRP $22,110
• Price as tested: $32,725
#GTGarageTalk #ChevyTrailblazer #ChevroletTrailblazer #Chevy #Chevrolet #Trailblazer #CarReview #TXautowriters
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS
PROS
- Sporty RS appearance package with red roof, black trim, and blacked-out accents makes it stand out
- Turbocharged three-cylinder is described as fun and peppy in urban and suburban driving
- Push-button AWD engages easily for varied road conditions
- Front seat folds flat to create up to an 8.5-foot load floor for cargo versatility
CONS
- Small 1.3-liter / 155-hp engine limits highway passing power and high-speed confidence
- Despite the 'Trailblazer' name and RS branding, the writer says it 'won't really be blazing many trails off road'