The Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to evolve year after year, with each model bringing refinements to performance and efficiency. Understanding the engine differences between the Trailblazer models helps buyers make informed decisions about which model year best meets their needs. 

Engine Options Overview

2026 Trailblazer Engine Lineup

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer maintains its reputation for efficient performance with a streamlined engine lineup. The base LS and LT trims feature the 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering adequate power for daily driving needs. This engine continues to balance fuel efficiency with responsive city performance.

For those seeking more capability, the ACTIV and RS trims come standard with the enhanced ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine. This powerplant delivers improved output and torque over the base engine, making it ideal for more spirited driving. The ACTIV trim specifically pairs this engine with off-road suspension tuning, a functional skid plate, and dual-outlet exhaust with trapezoidal polished tips to enhance its adventure-ready character.

The new model year sees the 1.3L Turbo engine receiving subtle calibration improvements for more refined throttle response and slightly better fuel efficiency. These enhancements represent the Chevrolet commitment to continuous improvement rather than revolutionary changes.

2025 Trailblazer Engine Specifications

This Trailblazer offers a similar engine configuration to what we see in the new model, with two primary options. The standard 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder produces 137 horsepower and 162 Nm of torque, delivering adequate performance in urban environments while achieving impressive fuel economy.

Higher trims feature the more powerful 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder producing 155 horsepower and 203 Nm of torque. This engine delivers a noticeable performance upgrade without significant fuel economy penalties. This model achieves approximately 7.8 L/100 km in city driving and 7.7 L/100 km on the highway with the front-wheel-drive configuration.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) remains standard on front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive variants utilize a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain strategy maintains a focus on providing efficiency for daily drivers while offering enhanced capability for those who need it.

2024 Trailblazer Engine Offerings

This Trailblazer features the same core engine options as the previous model, with the 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine standard on lower trims and the 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder available on higher trims or as an option.

The 1.2L engine produces 137 horsepower and 162 Nm of torque, while the 1.3L engine generates 155 horsepower and 203 Nm of torque. The power delivery remains focused on urban drivability rather than outright performance, staying true to the Trailblazer positioning as a practical small SUV.

Transmission options follow the same pattern: the CVT is paired with front-wheel-drive models, while the nine-speed automatic transmission is reserved for all-wheel-drive configurations. This approach balances efficiency and performance based on the driver’s needs.

Performance Evolution

Acceleration and Responsiveness Improvements

Chevrolet has focused on refining throttle response and power delivery rather than significantly increasing horsepower figures. The new Trailblazer with the 1.3L Turbo engine offers marginally improved acceleration compared to earlier models, thanks to software calibration updates that optimize power delivery across the rpm range.

The middle model represented a transitional year, with minor improvements to the engine management system that enhanced throttle response and reduced turbo lag compared to the oldest model. These incremental changes demonstrate a focus on refinement rather than dramatic performance increases.

Each model year shows subtle improvements in real-world driving situations, particularly in passing maneuvers and merging onto highways, where the turbocharged engines provide adequate midrange torque for confident driving.

Fuel Economy Progression

Fuel efficiency remains a key focus for the Trailblazer lineup, with each model year showing incremental improvements. The new model builds on the foundation established by the second version, with similar official fuel-economy ratings but subtle real-world improvements from refined engine tuning.

The middle Trailblazer achieves approximately 7.8 L/100 km in city driving and 7.7 L/100 km on the highway with the front-wheel-drive configuration and 1.3L engine. The oldest model delivered slightly higher consumption figures, with approximately 7.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 L/100 km on the highway, for comparable configurations.

These modest gains reflect the Chevrolet approach to continuous improvement rather than revolutionary changes in the powertrain department. For buyers focused on efficiency, the differences between model years are relatively minor but consistently trend toward better fuel economy.

Transmission and Drivetrain Updates

Front-Wheel Drive vs All-Wheel Drive Options

Across all three model years, Chevrolet maintains a consistent approach to drivetrain options. Front-wheel drive comes standard on all trim levels, providing excellent fuel efficiency for everyday driving. All-wheel drive remains available as an option on most trims, offering enhanced traction for winter driving or light off-road use.

The newest model continues to pair specific transmissions with each drivetrain configuration. This strategic approach maximizes the efficiency of front-wheel-drive models while ensuring all-wheel-drive variants have the appropriate gearing for more demanding conditions.

For buyers in areas with challenging weather conditions, the all-wheel-drive system remains largely unchanged across these model years, providing consistent performance and reliability regardless of which year they choose.

Transmission Refinements

The transmission options remain consistent across the model years, with the CVT standard on front-wheel-drive models and the nine-speed automatic reserved for all-wheel-drive configurations. However, each year brings subtle refinements to transmission tuning.

The new model features the most refined CVT programming to date, with improved simulated gear shifts that make the driving experience feel more natural. The nine-speed automatic also receives updated software for smoother shifts and better response to driver inputs.

These refinements represent the Chevrolet commitment to improving the driving experience without fundamental changes to the transmission architecture. The differences are subtle but contribute to an increasingly polished feel with each passing model year.

Engine Technology Advancements

Efficiency Technologies

Each model year introduces incremental improvements in efficiency technology. The new Trailblazer benefits from the latest engine management software, which optimizes fuel delivery and combustion timing for better efficiency and reduced emissions.

The mid model introduced enhanced stop-start technology that operates more seamlessly than the system in the old model. This improvement makes the fuel-saving feature less intrusive in daily driving, encouraging more drivers to leave the system activated.

Chevrolet has also refined the turbocharger design and tuning, reducing lag and improving throttle response across all engine speeds. These improvements enhance both the driving experience and real-world fuel economy.

Emissions and Environmental Considerations

Environmental performance shows steady improvement. The new Trailblazer features the latest emissions-control technology, including refined catalyst designs and improved exhaust gas recirculation systems that reduce harmful pollutants.

The middle model introduced initial improvements to the emissions control systems, laying the groundwork for the further enhancements seen in the new model. The old Trailblazer, while still meeting all applicable emissions standards, lacks some of the refined control strategies implemented in later model years.

These advancements demonstrate the Chevrolet commitment to reducing the environmental impact of their vehicles while maintaining performance and drivability.

Trim-Specific Engine Differences

ACTIV Trim Powertrain Evolution

The ACTIV trim, designed with off-road capability in mind, sees consistent powertrain specifications across these model years. The ACTIV comes standard with the ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine, paired with specially tuned off-road suspension and a functional skid plate.

The ACTIV trim featured similar mechanical specifications, with the 1.3L turbocharged engine standard. The oldest model established this pattern, positioning the ACTIV as the adventure-oriented option in the Trailblazer lineup.

While the core powertrain remains consistent, the newest model benefits from the accumulated refinements to engine tuning and transmission programming, making it the most capable and refined version of the ACTIV trim to date.

RS Trim Performance Enhancements

The sport-oriented RS trim maintains its performance-focused character across all three model years. The RS comes standard with the ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine and features unique styling elements, including a flat-bottom steering wheel and distinctive RS badging.

The middle RS trim offered mechanical specifications similar to those of the newest model, with the more powerful 1.3L engine as standard equipment. The older RS established this performance-oriented identity within the Trailblazer lineup.

As with the ACTIV trim, the core powertrain specifications remain consistent across these model years, with the newest model benefiting from accumulated refinements to engine and transmission tuning for a more responsive driving experience.

Practical Implications for Buyers

Which Model Year Offers the Best Value?

For buyers primarily concerned with value, the oldest Trailblazer offers the core powertrain technology at potentially lower price points due to depreciation. However, it lacks some of the refinements found in newer models.

The middle model represents a middle ground, with many of the improvements implemented without the premium typically associated with the newest model year. For many buyers, this may represent the optimal balance of technology and value.

The Trailblazer, while commanding a premium as the newest model, offers the most refined versions of these engines with the latest efficiency and emissions technologies. For buyers planning long-term ownership, these improvements may justify the higher initial cost.

Long-Term Reliability Considerations

While all three model years feature similar core engine architecture, the oldest model has the advantage of established reliability data. The newer models incorporate refinements that should theoretically improve longevity, but lack the same track record.

The middle model benefits from lessons learned from the older version, potentially addressing any early-production issues. The new model represents the most refined iteration of these powertrains but lacks long-term reliability data.

For buyers concerned primarily with proven reliability, the oldest model offers the advantage of more available data on common issues and fixes. Those willing to accept some uncertainty in exchange for the latest refinements may prefer the newer models.

Facts About Trailblazer Engines

Does the 2026 Trailblazer use the same engine family as earlier models?

• Yes, it utilizes the same basic engine family as the older models, with the 1.2L and 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder options, though with continued refinements to tuning and efficiency.

Which Trailblazer engine option provides the best fuel economy?

• The 1.2L turbocharged engine with front-wheel drive delivers the best fuel economy across all model years, though the differences between engine options are relatively minor.

Can the Trailblazer engines run on regular fuel?

• Yes, all engines run efficiently on regular 87-octane fuel, though premium fuel may provide slight performance benefits in some conditions.

Has Chevrolet addressed the stop-start system complaints in newer models?

• Yes, both models feature improved stop-start systems that operate more smoothly and with less intrusion compared to the older model.

Which Trailblazer engine is recommended for light towing?

• The 1.3L turbocharged engine is recommended for any towing needs across all model years, offering better torque characteristics, especially when paired with the all-wheel-drive system.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.