The Chevrolet Trailblazer III, specifically the 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo (155 hp) AWD Automatic variant, was produced from March 2020 to February 2023. This model represents Chevrolet’s entry into the increasingly popular subcompact SUV segment, primarily targeted at the North American market. It slots in below the larger Equinox and Traverse in Chevrolet’s SUV lineup, offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient option with available all-wheel drive. This particular configuration, combining the smaller displacement turbocharged engine with an automatic transmission and AWD, aimed to balance affordability, practicality, and all-weather capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Trailblazer |
| Generation | Trailblazer III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo (155 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| 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) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 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 | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1463-1475 kg (3225.36 – 3251.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525-537 kg (1157.43 – 1183.88 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 | 4408 mm (173.54 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1669-1669 mm (65.71 – 65.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1546-1554 mm (60.87 – 61.18 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557-1562 mm (61.3 – 61.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.39 m (37.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 225/60 R17; 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Trailblazer variant is the L3T 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-three cylinder engine. This engine is part of Chevrolet’s Small Engine Family (SEF), designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a variable valve timing (VVT) system to optimize combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to boost power output despite the engine’s small displacement. The engine produces 155 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 236 Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1600 rpm, providing a good balance of responsiveness and fuel economy. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band. This transmission features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive capabilities for improved highway fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter turbo engine, while not exceptionally powerful, provides adequate performance for daily driving. Acceleration is reasonable, though not sporty, and the nine-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly. The AWD system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with snow or rain. Compared to the base engine option (a 1.2L naturally aspirated engine), the 1.3T offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it doesn’t match the performance of larger engine options available in other SUV segments. The transmission’s nine gears contribute to relatively quiet highway cruising, and the engine’s torque delivery makes it feel more powerful than its horsepower figure suggests.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo AWD Automatic trim typically came standard with features such as Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 system with a 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert. Higher trim levels added features like heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, a larger touchscreen display, and upgraded interior materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with available leatherette options on higher trims. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Trailblazer III utilizes a front McPherson strut suspension and a rear multi-link suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The AWD system adds to the vehicle’s stability and handling. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Trailblazer III 1.3T AWD Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable subcompact SUV. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined ratings around 28 mpg. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues with the turbocharger and transmission. Compared to competitors like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30, the Trailblazer offered a more spacious interior and a lower starting price, but lacked the refined driving dynamics of some rivals. The AWD system was a key selling point for buyers in colder climates.
Legacy
The 1.3 ECOTEC Turbo engine, while relatively new, has shown reasonable long-term reliability in other General Motors vehicles. The nine-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be generally durable, although some early models experienced software glitches. In the used car market, the Trailblazer III 1.3T AWD Automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical subcompact SUV with all-wheel drive. Its relatively low price point and available features make it an attractive option for first-time buyers or those looking for a versatile daily driver.
