The Chevrolet Trailblazer I, specifically the 4.2i 24V AWD variant producing 295 horsepower, was a mid-size SUV manufactured by General Motors from 2006 to 2009. Positioned as a more premium offering within the Trailblazer lineup, it aimed to provide a blend of capability, space, and power for families and those needing a versatile vehicle. The Trailblazer itself was derived from the GMT360 platform, shared with the Buick Rainier, GMC Envoy, and Oldsmobile Bravada, representing GM’s attempt to consolidate its SUV offerings. This particular 4.2L engine and four-speed automatic transmission combination represented the top-tier engine option for the Trailblazer, offering a significant performance upgrade over the base 4.2L inline-six and the smaller V6 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Trailblazer |
| Generation | Trailblazer I |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 i 24V AWD (295 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71 Hp/l |
| Torque | 375 Nm @ 4800 rpm (276.59 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LL8 |
| Engine displacement | 4157 cm3 (253.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2766 kg (6097.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 626 kg (1380.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1127 l (39.8 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2268 l (80.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 4872 mm (191.81 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Height | 1892 mm (74.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2870 mm (112.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R16 S |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Trailblazer 4.2i AWD was the LL8 4.2-liter inline-six engine. This engine was a descendant of GM’s long-running 4.2L family, but featured a more modern design with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. This configuration, while not as advanced as direct injection systems found in later engines, provided a good balance of performance and reliability. The engine produced 295 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 375 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. This power was channeled through a four-speed automatic transmission, a somewhat dated design by the late 2000s, but known for its durability. The transmission was calibrated to provide smooth shifts and adequate acceleration, though it lacked the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2L engine provided brisk acceleration for a vehicle of the Trailblazer’s size and weight. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 8.9 seconds, making it noticeably quicker than Trailblazers equipped with the smaller V6 engines. However, the four-speed automatic transmission limited the engine’s potential, particularly at highway speeds. The gear ratios were spaced relatively wide, resulting in noticeable downshifts during overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Trailblazer trims, the automatic version felt less engaging and offered slightly reduced fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on loose surfaces, making it a capable vehicle for a variety of conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.2i AWD trim typically included a generous array of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with an auxiliary input, and cloth upholstery. Leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and a sunroof were often available as optional extras. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The Trailblazer’s interior, while not luxurious, was well-built and durable. The 4.2L AWD trim was generally positioned as a mid-to-high range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the more fully-equipped LT and LTZ trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Trailblazer I utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consisted of an independent double wishbone setup at the front and a coil spring rear suspension. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, although it could feel somewhat truck-like on rough roads. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, offering a responsive and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Trailblazer 4.2i AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine and spacious interior. However, the four-speed automatic transmission and relatively poor fuel economy were common criticisms. Compared to other SUVs in its class, such as the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Trailblazer offered a competitive level of performance and features at a reasonable price point. The 4.2L engine provided a noticeable performance advantage over the base V6 engines, but it came at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The Trailblazer’s all-wheel-drive system was also a selling point, providing enhanced traction and capability.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Trailblazer I, particularly the 4.2i AWD variant, has developed a reputation for being a reliable and durable SUV. The LL8 4.2L engine is known for its longevity, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most efficient, is generally considered to be robust. In the used car market, these Trailblazers are often sought after by those looking for a capable and affordable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s relatively poor fuel economy and the potential for rust in areas with harsh winters. Overall, the Trailblazer 4.2i AWD remains a viable option for those seeking a dependable and spacious SUV with a powerful engine.
