2005 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer?
For 2005, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer's front passenger airbag includes a sensor to determine if the seat is occupied, and side curtain airbags are added to the list of available safety equipment. The front buckets are redesigned for greater comfort, and there's a new AM/FM/CD player that incorporates MP3 playback capabilities. The LS and LT packages receive additional chrome trim pieces, plus OnStar and cruise control are now available on all models. A new Sun, Sound and Entertainment package, as well as a Luxury package, are now available. New exterior colors include Graystone, Superior Blue, and Emerald Jewel, while fresh two-tone interior color combinations of Ebony/Light Cashmere, Dark Gray/Light Gray and Ebony/Ebony round out the 2005 changes.

Advantages of the 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer:

• Sturdy body-on-frame construction
• Available rear seat DVD entertainment system
• Powerful six-cylinder engine

Objections to the 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer:

• Skittish handling in emergency avoidance situations
• Interior materials look and feel inexpensive
• Wallowy suspension over unimproved roads

Editor's Advice:
Despite the fact that the TrailBlazer is a relatively fresh entry, we're unimpressed by this effort. The midsize SUV category is populated with several excellent products, and new crossover vehicles are beginning to siphon sales from the more traditional truck-based models like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. Add in a spotty reliability record and skittish handling in emergency avoidance situations, and the Chevrolet TrailBlazer comes out near the bottom of our recommended list.