The bakkie-based SUV market has been quite competitive since a new versionof the Toyota Fortuner and an updated Ford Everest landed in South Africa. Not to be outdone, Chevrolet has facelifted its Trailblazer and adjusted the range's lineup. Here are the specifications and pricing of the new Chevrolet Trailblazer.

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a 7-seater lifestyle SUV and for the 2017 model year, General Motors has reworked the range to now consist of five derivatives, including manualand automatic versions of the rear-wheel-drive 2.5-litre LT, rear- and four-wheel-drive automatic versions of the 2.8 LTZ and a new flagship in the shape of the Z71, which is a blinged-up version ofthe LTZ 4×4.

“The new Trailblazer brings together superior levels of refinement, styling, comfort and technology with class-leading performance and drivability to meet the versatile needs of increasingly discerning customers,” said Brian Olson, vice president vehicles sales, service and marketing General Motors Sub-Saharan Africa.

Quick facts

New 2.5-litre LT model is fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Upgraded Duramax engine for this auto model rated at 132 kW and 440 Nm.Improved management of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduces cabin noise by more than half (4decibels).Driver aids such as lane departure warning and blind spot alert for LTZ trim level models.Bolder front end treatment with new bonnet and headlights and redesigned lower valance, while retaining the distinctive horizontal bar that splits the upper and lower grilles.Next generation MyLink 2.0 multimedia interface, fully compatible with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto.Daytime running lights (LED on the LTZ) for heightened visibility.New LTZ Z71 flagship gets "blacked-out"wheels, door handles and mirrors along with a unique decal treatment.

Upgraded engines/technical specs

The Trailblazer engine range consists of 2 motors; a 2.5-litre turbodiesel and a 2.8-litre turbodiesel. The 2.5-litre now delivers 132 kW and 440 Nm when paired with an automatic transmission in the LT model. Chevrolet is claiming the 2.5-litre automatic Trailblazer will consume 8.6 L/100 km and it will accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 11 seconds. It has a limited top speed of 180 kph. The standard 2.5-litre turbodiesel motor does duty in the 2.5-litre LT when paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It produces 120 kW and 380 Nm,will take 11.8 seconds to reach 100 kph and is claimed to consume just 7.6 L/100 km.

The other engine is a 2.8-litre turbodiesel 4 cylinder with peak outputs of 144 kW and 500 Nm. Chevrolet claimsthat this 6-speed automatic Trailblazer will accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 10.4 seconds.

Meanwhile, the 2.5-litre manual has a tow rating of 2 515 kg, while the rest of the range can pull a braked trailer weighing up to 2 965 kg. The 4-wheel drive LTZ models are equipped low range transfer cases, with two-high, four-high, and four-low drive modes just a turn of a console dial away.Other changes include a new electronic power steering system, which is said to be smoother in feel and more responsive to inputs.

New MyLink infotainment system

The new infotainment system comes in the form of a second-generation MyLink that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This system allows smartphone connectivity as well as USB and Bluetooth connections. One great feature of this is that phone-based navigation such as Google Maps can be displayed on the screen, while top-spec LTZ models feature built-in satnav.

Safety-wise, all derivatives are equipped with ABS with EBD and brake assist, HBFA (hydraulic brake fade assist), 7airbags (including a driver's knee airbag), pre-tensioning seatbelts, ISOfixchild seat anchors and front park assist.LTZ models benefit from the addition of Stabilitrak electronic stability/traction control, HDC (hill descent control),TSC (trailer sway control) and a rear-mounted camera parking assistance system, but now featuresforward collision alert, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and tyre pressure monitoring too.

In terms of after-sales backup, every derivative comes with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty as well as a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.

Chevrolet Trailblazer prices in South Africa

Trailblazer 2.5D LT 4×2 MT R464 000

Trailblazer 2.5D LT 4×2 AT R481 800

Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4×2 AT R552 800

Trailblazer 2.8D LTZ 4×4 AT R613 200

Trailblazer Z712.8D LTZ 4×4 AT R623 200

Further Reading

Read a review of the Chevrolet Trailblazer

Ford Starts Building Everest SUV in South Africa

Comparative Review: Ford Everest 3.2 4×4 XLT vs Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 6At

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