- New interior colour and updated specs enhance luxury feel
- Updated engine line-up brings meatier diesels to the range
- Leading MyLink infotainment system now standard on all models
18 MARCH 2014 – The Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV has come under the knife for 2014, with all five existing models receiving substantial specification enhancements. The Trailblazer has forged a solid reputation in South Africa since launch in 2012, with versatility, off-road ability and on-road stability strengthening the nameplate in the demanding South African market.
Tim Hendon, Chevrolet Brand Manager at General Motors South Africa (GMSA) says, “The Trailblazer continues to make in-roads into the large SUV segment in South Africa where a well-informed market knows what it wants from a vehicle of this calibre. With our enhanced range we expect Trailblazer to be even more widely received by the South African public where value is a key decision-making factor and luxurious appointment an added benefit in the buying process.
“We are particularly proud to integrate the MyLink infotainment system into the Trailblazer range, which puts it comfortably at the front of the pack in its class, and with the more powerful diesel engine offerings, Trailblazer has become even more suitable as both a lifestyle vehicle and an off-road driving asset.”
Specifications enhanced
For the 2014 model year, all Trailblazer models feature enhanced specifications which add value and class to the already well-specced range. All LTZ derivatives now feature a reversing camera as standard. All models also benefit from changes on the inside, with a new Dark Ash Grey interior colour scheme available along with front side airbags mounted in the seats.
The updated Chevrolet Trailblazer also features a new, multi-information central LCD display panel which features the usual trip computer readouts as well as two new menus for additional vehicle particulars. The vehicle information display imparts critical information such as battery voltage, an adjustable speed warning, transmission fluid temperature (particularly important for off-roading), engine hours and an oil life indicator.
The additional economy gauges include an instantaneous throttle position indicator which indicates when economical driving is being achieved, as well as a historical fuel economy graph which shows fuel consumption history for the last 50 km. Both these features are geared to encourage more economical driving habits.
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment debuts as standard
The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system which debuted earlier in 2014 in the Chevrolet Sonic RS is now also available in the Chevrolet Trailblazer, fitted as standard to all derivatives. MyLink brings smartphone technology to the Trailblazer with a large 7-inch touch screen display and a host of media capabilities. Video and picture playback, full audio format support linked to six speakers, USB and aux integration, as well as Bluetooth for hands-free cellphone use and audio streaming, join Chevrolet MyLink’s downloadable app set which allow for an increasing array of integrated media use including Internet-based radio.
The Chevrolet MyLink concept is simple – an amalgamation of the most popular and advanced infotainment functions incorporated into an easy-to-use, attractive and effective interface which transforms the Chevrolet Trailblazer into a connected entertainment hub while on the move.
Chevrolet MyLink has been designed to be compatible across the board both in terms of phone integration and playable media formats, which means the most common music, picture and video formats can be streamed or played via most smartphones – the additional full-size USB and auxiliary ports ensuring that other sources of music, videos or photos can also be easily integrated. Up to 35 pre-set and 15 auto-stored AM or FM radio stations can be programmed as well, rounding off the complete entertainment solution that is Chevrolet MyLink.
Updated diesel engines for stronger pulling power
With four of the five Trailblazer derivatives featuring powerful turbocharged diesel engines, the 2014 line-up now benefits from uprated outputs from both the 2.5-litre and 2.8-litre Duramax diesel motors. The 2.5D LT model now makes use of 120 kW (up by 9%) and 380 Nm (up by 8.5%). The 2.8D LTZ models, available in either 4×2 or 4×4 guise, also see hikes in power from the proven Duramax turbocharged diesel engine, which now produces 144 kW (up 9%). Automatic 2.8D LTZ models receive further enhancement in the form of a torque increase of 30 Nm to 500 Nm.
Fuel economy from the updated engines also improves, the 2.5D LT derivative returning an average fuel consumption figure of 8.0-litres per 100 km, the updated 2.8D LTZ models returning as low as 8.5-litres per 100 km.
The two Duramax engines are ranked amongst the most powerful and fuel efficient diesel engines available in their respective displacement classes. Both feature double overhead camshafts and an aluminium cylinder head designed to optimise combustion for enhanced power and efficiency with a reduced tendency for engine knock to occur. Both engines make use of high-pressure common-rail fuel injection systems (2.0 bar) with turbocharged and intercooled induction systems. The clean-burn design of the induction and combustion process, aside from the power and efficiency benefits, also provides for low emissions. Both engines are Euro 2 compliant.
The tried-and-trusted 3.6-litre petrol V6 engine fitted to the range-topping Trailblazer 3.6 LTZ AT model remains unchanged.
Trailblazer virtues continue
Born out of one of the American SUV market’s most revered nameplates, the Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to embody Chevrolet’s SUV know-how, which stretches as far back as 1936 when the original Chevrolet Suburban was first introduced. The Trailblazer name first debuted in 2002 when the Chevrolet brand gave birth to a large SUV with a balance between comfort and off-road ability being pinpointed as its most prominent aspects.
The all-new Chevrolet Trailblazer, which is built in Thailand for global consumption embodies those specific attributes since global introduction in 2012
Featuring seven practical seats, ample room for luggage, a comfortable cabin and a refined drive, the Trailblazer offers the best combination of all-round attributes which culminate in an infinitely practical SUV.
Also featuring advanced 4×4 drivetrain design and technology, Trailblazer is as comfortable and capable off-road as it is in the city, where generous ground clearance (up to 230 mm), excellent critical angles and a sturdy 4×4 system allow for exceptionally easy off-road driving. Able to switch drive modes at the turn of a dial, 4×4 Trailblazer models offer 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low modes. Combined with the pulling power available from either the 2.8-litre Duramax diesel motors or 3.6-litre petrol V6, the Trailblazer makes for the perfect getaway vehicle, with class-leading towing capacity (up to 2 950 kg in 2.8D LTZ models) going further in making the Chevrolet Trailblazer a true all-rounder.
High specs and safety equipment continue
Supplementing the changes for 2014 and allowing the Trailblazer to stay at the front of the pack, existing high specifications and safety equipment continue to feature.
Alloy wheels and colour coding for all models ensure the exterior remains classy, with LTZ models still featuring uprated LED tail light clusters and chrome detailing. On the inside, all models feature air conditioning with rear ventilation control and electric windows for all-round comfort, the LTZ derivatives featuring a more luxurious automatic dual-zone climate control system as standard as well, along with rear parking sensors, electric driver’s seat adjustment and leather upholstery.
All models also continue to feature eleven cup holders, cruise control, multi-function leather-bound steering wheels, multi-info trip computers, four 12V power sockets, side steps and mud flaps.
Safety equipment across the range still includes ABS with EBD, PBA (Panic Brake Assist), HBFA (Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist), a limited slip differential, six airbags including the two additional side airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a collapsible steering column and remote central locking with auto-locking doors.
LTZ models benefit from the addition of ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and TCS (Traction Control System), HDC (Hill Descent Control), TSC (Trailer Sway Control) and EDC (Engine Drag Control), the LTZ automatic models also featuring HSA (Hill Start Assistance).
2014 Chevrolet Trailblazer model range and pricing (incl. VAT)
- Trailblazer 2.5D LT 4×2 MT – R 386 500.00
- Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4×2 AT – R 456 400.00
- Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4×4 MT – R 489 800.00
- Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4×4 AT – R 506 400.00
- Trailblazer 3.6 LTZ 4×4 AT – R 516 700.00
All Chevrolet Trailblazer models come standard with a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance package, as well as a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan, with service intervals scheduled every 15 000 km.
