When it comes to compact SUVs, the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer are two of the most popular options on the market. Both vehicles offer a great combination of style, functionality, and affordability. However, there are some key differences between the two models that may make one a better choice for you than the other. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer to help you decide which one is right for you.
One of the most noticeable differences between the Trax and Trailblazer is their size. The Trax is a subcompact SUV, while the Trailblazer is a compact SUV. This means that the Trailblazer is slightly larger than the Trax, offering more interior space and cargo capacity. If you need a vehicle that can accommodate a growing family or if you frequently transport large items, the Trailblazer may be a better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more maneuverable vehicle that is easy to park in tight spaces, the Trax may be a better option.
Another key difference between the Trax and Trailblazer is their performance. The Trax comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Trailblazer comes standard with a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the Trax has a slightly more powerful engine, the Trailblazer has a better torque rating, which gives it an advantage when towing or hauling heavy loads. If you need a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions, the Trailblazer may be a better choice for you.
Fuel Economy and Powertrain Options
Trax
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax offers impressive fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for city driving and daily commuting. Equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, it produces 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.
The Trax boasts a fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is considerably higher than many other subcompact SUVs. Its fuel-efficient design helps reduce fuel consumption, saving you money on gas expenses. Additionally, the Trax features a stop-start system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, further enhancing fuel efficiency.
Fuel Economy Table
| City (mpg) | Highway (mpg) |
|:———–:|:————–:|
| 29 | 33 |
Trailblazer
The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a range of powertrain options to cater to diverse driving needs. The base model comes with a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, generating 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing a seamless and fuel-efficient driving experience.
For those seeking more power, the Trailblazer offers an optional 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This more potent engine produces 180 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, offering improved acceleration and towing capabilities. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for enhanced smoothness and responsiveness.
For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Trailblazer offers an available 1.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This system provides additional torque when needed, resulting in improved fuel economy without compromising performance.
Powertrain Table
| Engine | Transmission | Horsepower | Torque |
|:——-:|:————-:|:———–:|:——:|
| 1.3L Turbo 3-Cylinder | CVT | 155 | 174 |
| 1.5L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 9-Speed Auto | 180 | 203 |
| 1.3L Turbo 3-Cylinder (Hybrid) | CVT | 155 | 174 |
Technology and Features
Infotainment and Connectivity
Both the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer offer advanced infotainment systems. The Trax comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Trailblazer boasts a larger 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. Additionally, the Trailblazer offers a Wi-Fi hotspot capability, enabling you to stay connected on the go.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for both the Trax and Trailblazer. Both vehicles come standard with a host of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking. The Trailblazer adds additional features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, providing you with peace of mind on every journey.
Comfort and Convenience
The Trax and Trailblazer offer a comfortable and convenient cabin experience. The Trax features cloth seats, while the Trailblazer offers available leather upholstery. Both vehicles provide ample legroom and headroom for passengers, ensuring a pleasant ride for all. Additionally, the Trailblazer offers a panoramic sunroof, creating an airy and spacious atmosphere.
| Feature | Trax | Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen Size | 7 inches | 8 inches |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not available | Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard | Standard |
| Forward Collision Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not available | Available |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Not available | Available |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Not available | Available |
| Leather Upholstery | Available | Standard |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not available | Available |
Safety and Driver Assistance
Advanced Safety Features
Both the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer excel in safety, offering an array of advanced features. The Trax includes 10 standard airbags, a rearview camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Trailblazer adds a lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Both vehicles feature blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as available options.
Technology Enhancements
The Trax and Trailblazer are technologically advanced, providing drivers with enhanced visibility and convenience. The Trax offers standard LED taillights and daytime running lights, while the Trailblazer adds LED headlights and fog lights. Both vehicles feature an intuitive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Trax includes a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Trailblazer boasts an 8-inch display. Advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, are available on both models.
Comprehensive Safety Packages
To ensure the utmost protection, the Trax and Trailblazer offer comprehensive safety packages. The Trax’s LATCH system provides secure child seat installation, while the Trailblazer’s Teen Driver mode allows parents to monitor their teenagers’ driving habits. Both vehicles feature a stability control system and traction control, enhancing handling and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the Trax and Trailblazer are equipped with OnStar, offering remote diagnostics, emergency assistance, and security services.
Exterior Styling and Design
The 2025 Trax and Trailblazer both feature bold and modern exterior designs, but there are some subtle differences that set them apart.
Front End
The Trax has a more aggressive front end with a wide grille and angular headlights, while the Trailblazer has a more rounded front end with a narrower grille and more curved headlights. Both models have LED headlights as standard, and the Trax offers a sporty RS package that adds a blacked-out grille and other exterior enhancements.
Sides
The Trax has a boxier profile than the Trailblazer, with a more upright windshield and a more pronounced roofline. The Trailblazer has a more swept-back windshield and a more tapered roofline, which gives it a more aerodynamic look. Both models have black plastic cladding around the wheel wells and lower body, and the Trailblazer offers a variety of two-tone paint options.
Rear
The Trax has a more traditional rear end with a hatchback-style liftgate, while the Trailblazer has a more SUV-like rear end with a more upright liftgate. Both models have LED taillights, and the Trailblazer offers a hands-free liftgate that can be opened by waving your foot under the rear bumper.
Dimensions
The 2025 Trax is slightly smaller than the Trailblazer, with an overall length of 177.3 inches, a width of 70.7 inches, and a height of 61.6 inches. The Trailblazer is 180.3 inches long, 72.4 inches wide, and 65.2 inches high. Both models have a wheelbase of 103.9 inches.
| 2025 Trax | 2025 Trailblazer | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 177.3 inches | 180.3 inches |
| Width | 70.7 inches | 72.4 inches |
| Height | 61.6 inches | 65.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 103.9 inches | 103.9 inches |
Interior Comfort and Space
Both the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer offer comfortable interiors with ample space for passengers and cargo. However, there are some key differences to consider.
Spaciousness
The Trailblazer has a slightly larger interior than the Trax. It offers more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, making it a more comfortable choice for taller passengers or those who prefer extra space.
Seats and Comfort
The Trax features standard cloth seats, while the Trailblazer offers available leather seats. Both offer comfortable seating, but the leather seats in the Trailblazer provide a more luxurious feel.
Cargo Space
The Trailblazer has a significantly larger cargo area than the Trax. It offers 54.4 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down, compared to just 48.4 cubic feet in the Trax. This makes the Trailblazer a better choice for those who need to transport large items.
Technology and Convenience Features
Both the Trax and Trailblazer offer a range of technology and convenience features, including infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and remote start. However, the Trailblazer offers a few additional features, such as a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof.
| Feature | Trax | Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Seats | Cloth | Cloth |
| Available Seats | N/A | Leather |
| Cargo Space (Cu. Ft.) | 48.4 | 54.4 |
| Heated Steering Wheel | No | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | No | Yes |
Off-Roading Capabilities
The Trailblazer and Trax both offer impressive off-roading capabilities for their respective sizes. However, the Trailblazer has a slight edge thanks to its more powerful engine, higher ground clearance, and standard four-wheel drive.
| Feature | Trailblazer | Trax |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 155 horsepower | 138 horsepower |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Standard Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
Hill Descent Control
Both vehicles feature hill descent control, which helps maintain a steady speed while descending steep slopes.
Traction Control
The Trailblazer and Trax come standard with traction control, which helps prevent wheelspin and improves grip on slippery surfaces.
StabiliTrak Stability Control
StabiliTrak is a stability control system that helps correct oversteer or understeer and prevent skidding. It’s standard on both vehicles.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Automatic emergency braking (AEB) uses sensors to detect potential collisions and apply the brakes automatically. It’s available on both Trailblazer and Trax models.
Forward Collision Alert
Forward collision alert (FCA) uses sensors to detect potential collisions and warn the driver with visual and audible alerts. It’s standard on the Trax but only available as an option on the Trailblazer.
Towing and Payload Capacity
When comparing the 2025 Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer, towing and payload capacity are important considerations. Both SUVs offer a decent amount of capability, but the Trailblazer has a slight advantage over the Trax.
2025 Chevrolet Trax
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough to tow a small trailer or camper. The Trax also has a maximum payload capacity of 1,250 pounds, which is enough to carry a few hundred pounds of cargo. A towing package is required for towing capacity to tow any weight.
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer has a slightly higher towing capacity than the Trax, at 1,800 pounds.
The Trailblazer also has a higher maximum payload capacity of 1,350 pounds.
Towing and Payload Capacity Comparison
| Vehicle | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity |
|—|—|—|
| 2025 Chevrolet Trax | 1,500 lbs | 1,250 lbs |
| 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer | 1,800 lbs | 1,350 lbs |
Conclusion
Both the 2025 Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer offer decent towing and payload capacity. However, if you need to tow or haul heavier loads, the Trailblazer is the better choice.
Price and Value Proposition
MSRP Range
The 2025 Trax has an MSRP range of $21,495 to $24,495, while the Trailblazer’s MSRP ranges from $23,800 to $32,400. The Trax is the more affordable option, with a lower starting price and a narrower price range.
Standard Features
The Trax and Trailblazer offer comparable standard features, including a rearview camera, touchscreen infotainment system, and smartphone integration. However, the Trailblazer has a slight edge in terms of available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and driver-assist technologies.
Trim Levels
The Trax offers three trim levels (LS, LT, and RS), while the Trailblazer has four (LS, LT, Activ, and RS). The Trailblazer offers a wider range of trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget.
Fuel Economy
The Trax has a slightly better fuel economy than the Trailblazer, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway compared to the Trailblazer’s 26 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, the Trailblazer offers a more powerful engine with 155 horsepower compared to the Trax’s 155 horsepower.
Resale Value
The Trailblazer is expected to have a slightly higher resale value than the Trax due to its more premium features and wider range of trim levels. However, both vehicles are expected to hold their value well over time.
Value Proposition
For buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient compact SUV, the 2025 Trax offers a compelling value proposition with its low starting price and good fuel economy. For those seeking a more feature-rich and versatile SUV, the Trailblazer provides a wider range of trim levels, more powerful engine, and more premium features.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
Reliability Ratings
The 2025 Trax has received an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 from J.D. Power, while the Trailblazer scored 4.0 out of 5. This indicates that the Trax is considered slightly more reliable than the Trailblazer.
Repair Cost Estimates
According to RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for the Trax is estimated to be $475, while the Trailblazer is estimated to cost $525. This means that the Trax has slightly lower predicted maintenance costs than the Trailblazer.
Common Problems
Trax
- Transmission issues
- Engine problems
- Electrical problems
Trailblazer
- Suspension problems
- Brake problems
- HVAC problems
Maintenance Schedule
The Trax and Trailblazer have similar maintenance schedules. Both vehicles require regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. The Trax requires a timing belt replacement at 100,000 miles, while the Trailblazer requires a new one at 120,000 miles.
Warranty Coverage
Both the Trax and Trailblazer come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This means that you will be covered for most major repairs during the first few years of ownership.
Owner Satisfaction
Owner satisfaction ratings for the Trax and Trailblazer are comparable. Both vehicles have received positive reviews for their overall performance, reliability, and value for money. However, the Trailblazer has received slightly higher marks for its interior quality and driving dynamics.
| 2025 Trax | 2025 Trailblazer | |
|---|---|---|
| J.D. Power Reliability Rating | 4.5 | 4.0 |
| RepairPal Annual Repair Cost Estimate | $475 | $525 |
| Basic Warranty Coverage | 3-year/36,000-mile | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Powertrain Warranty Coverage | 5-year/60,000-mile | 5-year/60,000-mile |
Overall Comparison
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer are two compact SUVs that offer a good value for the price. Both vehicles have spacious interiors, comfortable seats, and a variety of features. However, there are some key differences between the two models that you should consider before making a decision.
1. Size
The Trax is slightly smaller than the Trailblazer, with a length of 178.6 inches compared to 184.4 inches. It also has a narrower width of 70.6 inches compared to 71.7 inches. As a result, the Trax has a slightly smaller interior, with 115.9 cubic feet of passenger space compared to 134.3 cubic feet in the Trailblazer.
2. Engine and Performance
The Trax comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Trailblazer, on the other hand, comes standard with a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
3. Fuel Economy
The Trax has slightly better fuel economy than the Trailblazer, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Trailblazer, on the other hand, has an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
4. Features
Both the Trax and Trailblazer come standard with a variety of features, including a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. However, the Trailblazer offers a few more features as standard, such as a sunroof, satellite radio, and a Bose premium audio system.
5. Price
The Trax has a lower starting price than the Trailblazer, with an MSRP of $21,400 compared to $23,800. However, the Trailblazer offers more features as standard, so you may want to consider the additional cost if you value those features.
6. Warranty
Both the Trax and Trailblazer come with the same basic warranty, which includes three years/36,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and five years/60,000 miles of powertrain coverage. However, the Trailblazer offers an additional two years of roadside assistance, which can be helpful if you have a flat tire or need a jumpstart.
7. Safety
The Trax and Trailblazer both received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Trax received a five-star overall safety rating, while the Trailblazer received a four-star overall safety rating. Both vehicles also received good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
8. Reliability
The Trax and Trailblazer have both received average reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Associates. The Trax received an overall reliability score of 69 out of 100, while the Trailblazer received an overall reliability score of 71 out of 100.
9. Resale Value
The Trax and Trailblazer have both average resale values. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Trax has a resale value of 58% after three years, while the Trailblazer has a resale value of 59% after three years.
10. Which One is Right for You?
The Trax is a good choice for buyers who want a small and affordable SUV. It has a spacious interior, comfortable seats, and a variety of features. The Trailblazer, on the other hand, is a good choice for buyers who want a larger and more powerful SUV. It has a more powerful engine, a more spacious interior, and more features as standard. Ultimately, the best way to decide which SUV is right for you is to test drive both vehicles and see which one you prefer.
| Trax | Trailblazer | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 178.6 inches | 184.4 inches |
| Width | 70.6 inches | 71.7 inches |
| Passenger Space | 115.9 cubic feet | 134.3 cubic feet |
| Engine | 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 155 horsepower | 155 horsepower |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 26/31 mpg | 25/30 mpg |
| Starting Price | $21,400 | $23,800 |
| Warranty (bumper-to-bumper/powertrain) | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Safety Rating (NHTSA) | Five stars | Four stars |
| Reliability Rating (J.D. Power) | 69 out of 100 | 71 out of 100 |
| Resale Value (after three years) | 58% | 59% |
2025 Trax vs Trailblazer: A Comparative Analysis
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer offer compelling options in the subcompact SUV segment. While both models share similar characteristics, discerning buyers may prefer one over the other based on their specific needs and preferences. This comparative analysis examines the key differences between the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer to guide potential buyers in making informed decisions.
In terms of size, the 2025 Trax is slightly smaller than the Trailblazer. The Trax has a wheelbase of 102.4 inches and an overall length of 174 inches, whereas the Trailblazer boasts a 107.1-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 183 inches. The larger dimensions of the Trailblazer provide additional legroom and cargo space.
Under the hood, both vehicles offer a choice of engines. The Trax comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Trailblazer, on the other hand, features a standard 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that generates 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth and efficient gear transitions.
Regarding fuel economy, the 2025 Trax has the edge over the Trailblazer. The Trax is rated at 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, while the Trailblazer achieves 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These figures are based on EPA estimates.
People Also Ask About 2025 Trax vs Trailblazer
How spacious is the interior?
The Trailblazer has a more spacious interior compared to the Trax. It offers more legroom, headroom, and cargo space, making it a better choice for families or individuals who prioritize space and comfort.
Which model offers better towing capacity?
The 2025 Trailblazer has a higher towing capacity than the Trax. The Trailblazer can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the Trax has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.
Does either model offer all-wheel drive?
Both the 2025 Trax and Trailblazer offer all-wheel drive as an available option. This feature enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions, including rain, snow, and off-road terrain.
