Chevrolet Trailblazer: test drive coming up
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I am driving the new Chevrolet Trailblazer for a week.
I will be writing a full review in a few days. But so far, this is actually very, very nice.
The model I have is a loaded version, with AWD, 9-speed auto and the larger 1.3 Liter engine. I will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
This is one of the first cars with wirleless carplay and android auto. Could you let us know how well it works?
I've found the road noise to be unbearable, being already loud at 35 mph. I ended up removing it from my shopping list. Also, I think the fabric on the door to look awfully cheap when you order leatherette seating. Otherwise, I would have liked it. The option packages are nice, not a frequent thing at GM.
Vince, I’ve been following your blog since 2004 and I’m glad you still give us the opportunity to ask about things for your test drives. Thank you!
How bad is that blindspot in the d-pillar and how is the powerband?
– Wireless car play works really well.
But… Since the phone is never plugged in, I leave it mostly on that charging mat under the dash. Since that area is dark, I did forget the phone a couple of times in the car!
– The road noise on the Activ version I have is pretty bad on the freeway. But not around town. I think it might be mostly due to the more off-road-oriented tires specific to that version. ( I will know for sure when I drive the Buick version in a couple of weeks)
– I actually have not noticed the D-pillar blind spot.
But did notice the B-pillar is pretty thick from inside. And you really have to turn your head quite a bit to see on your left.
The powerband is great. Just a little turbo lag, not much. Plenty of power available all the time. And a really quiet and smooth engine in general.
Did I just see you turning right on Burbank Blvd from Sepulveda a few hours ago? I swear I spotted this exact car and thought to myself how it was the first one I'd seen.
Vince,
Does it look as underwhelming in real life as it does in the pictures?
– Sorry, that wasn't me on Burbank & Sepulveda…
– I think it looks fine. A bit cute. Better in another color than white. I think that brown/green color (The one my car has on the roof) looks great on the Activ version. With a white top.
But I have noticed people looking at the car. Maybe because it's new?
How noisy, how does it ride, and is its horsepower enough(not by your standards Vince) compared to competition?