As GM Authority exclusively reported last week, the 2021 Trailblazer is lighter than the Chevrolet Trax, despite the all-new Trailblazer’s larger exterior proportions. Now, we have another exclusive – a complete rundown on the 2021 Trailblazer weights, by model and trim level.
A number of different factors are in play when it comes to the 2021 Trailblazer’s curb weight ratings, including the trim level, engine, transmission, and drive wheels. We’ve listed out every configuration on offer with the following table for easy reference:
| Trim Level | Driveline | Engine | Transmission | Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L FWD | FWD | 1.2L Turbo LIH I-3 | CVT | 2996 |
| LS FWD | FWD | 1.2L Turbo LIH I-3 | CVT | 3014 |
| LS AWD | AWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | 9-speed auto | 3226 |
| LT FWD | FWD | 1.2L Turbo LIH I-3 | CVT | 3030 |
| LT AWD | AWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | 9-speed auto | 3252 |
| ACTIV FWD | FWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | CVT | 3084 |
| ACTIV AWD | AWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | 9-speed auto | 3275 |
| RS FWD | FWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | CVT | 3102 |
| RS AWD | AWD | 1.3L Turbo L3T I-3 | 9-speed auto | 3289 |
As we can see, the lightest configuration of the lineup is the base L trim with front-wheel drive, the 1.2L LIH engine, and a CVT. This model tips the scales at 2,996 pounds. Meanwhile, the heaviest of the bunch is the RS model with all-wheel drive, the 1.3L L3T engine, and nine-speed automatic transmission, which tips the scales at 3,289 pounds. That’s a not-so-insignificant 293-pound difference between the lightest and heaviest models in the 2021 Trailblazer model cadence. The weight difference is even more impactful when considering the crossover’s classification in the subcompact/subcompact-plus segment.
As a reminder, the sporty RS and outdoorsy Activ trims are the range-topping offerings in the 2021 Trailblazer lineup, both of which start at $26,395. The new Trailblazer’s mechanical specs include the turbocharged 1.2L three-cylinder LIH as standard lower in the line, with output rated at 137 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, Chevy’s new Trailblazer is also offered with the turbocharged 1.3L three-cylinder L3T. The up-level engine produces 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines pair with a CVT when equipped with front-wheel-drive. Adding all-wheel-drive and the 1.3L engine also adds in the GM nine-speed automatic transmission.
As we mentioned earlier, the 2021 Trailblazer weight is actually 128 pounds lighter than the older and dimensionally-smaller 2021 Chevrolet Trax when comparing the lightest configuration for both models. The lightest Trailblazer weighs in at 2,996 pounds, while the lightest Trax tips the scales at 3,124 pounds. To note, the lightest Trax on offer is the entry-level LS equipped with the turbocharged 1.4L I-4 LUV engine and front-wheel-drive.
Generally speaking, a lower curb weight results in a better-driving vehicle thanks to more agile acceleration, turning, and braking, while also returning better fuel economy. The new Trailblazer manages to achieve its light weight as a result of an all-new vehicle architecture called GM VSS-F. It’s the very first GM vehicle to use the modular platform vehicle set, which will underpin all future GM vehicles with a transverse (internal combustion) engine orientation. The next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain will also ride on a variant of this flexible architecture, and will likely deliver similar levels of weight savings of current models.
We’ll have plenty more about the 2021 Trailblazer soon, so stay tuned. In the meantime, make sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevrolet Trailblazer news, Chevrolet news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
OMG ! 155 hp tops the RS Trailblazer model ? I see GM so far from an SS version I think I’ll be buried in my 2008 Trailblazer SS.
OMG ! 155 hp tops the RS Trailblazer model ? I see GM so far from an SS version I think I’ll be buried in my 2008 Trailblazer SS.
The new TB is an entirely different vehicle in a totally different segment than your TB.
I would still like to see an SS variant of the VSS-F in the next couple years. It would be interesting to put a 1.6t or 2.0t in a B/C segment vehicle. I saw a new Trailblazer in person this past winter and they wear their weight in a much sportier way than the Trax.
Here’s hoping they bring the development of the VSS-F to America with the next gen Sonic, but if they don’t I believe the Koreans are more than capable of building an outstanding vehicle. Would just like to see an option with a little more oomph.
Proudly made in Korea by GM.
More American jobs lost to outsourcing and corporate greed.
Like many Americans, I will never buy a foreign GM product.
Purchased the Trailblazer AWD ACTV to tow behind our Motorhome. We were looking for a lighter weight of-road alternative to a Jeep Wrangler that would work well as a daily driver for the Mrs. This model weighs in at 3275lbs and a third less than any decent off-road comparable and is no problem for our 33′ Class A Ford Triton over the passes. Boy, are we impressed with this vehicle – the 9 Speed Trans is spectacular and the engine output leaves nothing to be desired save for a faster 0-60. Really nice driving on the open road and highway and quite capable on some seriously challenging Death Valley trails. Really well equipped for under $30K