The Chevrolet Trailblazer III RS 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo, produced from March 2020 to February 2023, represents a key offering in Chevrolet’s compact SUV lineup. Positioned as a sporty, technology-focused trim, the RS 1.3L variant aimed to attract buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency, modern features, and a more dynamic driving experience. It slots into the Trailblazer range above the base LS and LT trims, offering a more premium aesthetic and enhanced equipment levels. This generation Trailblazer (designated as the V02 platform) was primarily designed for the North American market, representing a departure from the body-on-frame SUVs of previous generations, embracing a more car-like unibody construction.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Trailblazer |
| Generation | Trailblazer III |
| Type | RS 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo (155 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | March, 2020 |
| End of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 236 Nm @ 1600 rpm (174.06 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L3T |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1407 kg (3101.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 716 l (25.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1540 l (54.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Length | 4413 mm (173.74 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 193 mm (7.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.39 m (37.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | CVT automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Trailblazer RS 1.3L is the L3T, a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-three cylinder engine. This engine is part of Chevrolet’s Small Engine Family (SEF), designed for efficiency and responsiveness. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a variable valve timing (VVT) system to optimize combustion and power delivery. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader torque curve. The engine produces 155 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 236 Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1600 rpm. This engine is paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), prioritizing smooth acceleration and fuel economy over traditional stepped gear changes. The CVT is programmed to simulate gear shifts for a more familiar driving feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3L ECOTEC Turbo with the CVT delivers a comfortable and efficient driving experience. While not offering the outright acceleration of larger engines, the turbocharger provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The CVT effectively keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in smooth and linear acceleration. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (had they been available in the Trailblazer lineup), this configuration prioritizes fuel economy and ease of use. The CVT’s programming minimizes engine drone during acceleration, contributing to a quieter cabin experience. However, drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience might find the CVT less responsive than a traditional automatic transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Trailblazer RS trim level included a number of standard features designed to enhance both comfort and style. These typically included a leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded cloth upholstery with red stitching, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of active safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium Bose audio system. The RS trim also featured unique exterior styling elements, such as a black mesh grille, darkened wheels, and RS badging.
Chassis & Braking
The Trailblazer III utilizes a unibody construction, contributing to its lighter weight and improved handling compared to older body-on-frame SUVs. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear utilizes a torsion beam setup. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking maneuvers. The RS trim did not receive any specific suspension or braking upgrades compared to other Trailblazer trims.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Trailblazer III, and specifically the RS 1.3L variant, received generally positive reviews for its stylish design, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Critics praised the engine’s responsiveness and the CVT’s smooth operation. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or during aggressive acceleration. Compared to competitors like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-5, the Trailblazer offered a more affordable price point and a more generous amount of standard features. Fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, averaging around 31 mpg combined. Reliability reports have been generally favorable, with few widespread issues reported for the L3T engine and CVT transmission.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Trailblazer III RS 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo represents a significant step forward in Chevrolet’s compact SUV offerings. The L3T engine, while not a powerhouse, proved to be a reliable and efficient powerplant. The CVT transmission, while not universally loved by enthusiasts, contributed to the vehicle’s fuel economy and smooth driving experience. On the used car market, these Trailblazers hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. The RS trim, with its sporty styling and enhanced features, remains a popular choice among buyers seeking a well-equipped and fuel-efficient compact SUV.
