2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer - Review

LOS CABOS, Mexico —  Sunlight twinkles on the Sea of Cortez and at its undulating edge, a white-sand beach beckons. But, the call of the off-road and desert driving is my siren song. I head to a nearby 4x4 track where  GM's triumvirate of new midsize SUVs awaits me.

Slipping behind the wheel of the all-new 2002 Chevy Trailblazer, I navigate a 4WD loop that has up and downhill grades, tight and twisty turns and a long straightaway back stretch. I'm wowed by this street-prepared player with some true back-country capability. I note that it has ample well-modulated power, capable brakes and crisp steering, with a tight turning radius. Good ground clearance coupled with a compliant but firm suspension allow for moderately speedy travel over bumpy and rough terrain with good result. Forget the waves! This is an ocean of fun!

For the 2002 model year, General Motors has dramatically refined its lineup of midsize SUVs, with updated versions of the GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada, plus the new 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. The triumvirate have three distinct styles with state-of-the-art refinements in both mechanics and special features.

Built on the same platform as the GMC Envoy and the Oldsmobile Bravada, the Trailblazer rides on an all-new chassis with a stiffer frame and dynamic suspension system and shares a brand-new engine that increases performance while improving fuel efficiency and smoothness.

And with a host of upgraded interior features such as an available DVD player, next-generation OnStar and a dual-zone climate control system, the Trailblazer has living-room comfort with  SUV practicality, stability, handling and suspension.