2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT LT 4x2

The 65/35 split center seat offers adult-size roominess, and both sections flip forward with levers marked "1" and "2" for quick and easy access to the third seat. Unlike many competitive 7-passenger SUVs, the EXT's third-seat passengers are very well accommodated: excellent leg, hip and shoulder room and (thanks to the raised roof) ample headroom for 6-footers. While the cushion is a bit short for long legs, you also sit high for good forward vision.


By contrast, Ford's 8.3-inch shorter Explorer uses independent rear suspension (compared to the TrailBlazer's five-link live-axle design) to lower the floor, allowing room for third-seat passengers (though not as much) without raising the roof. While this more sophisticated and expensive suspension also offers dynamic handling advantages, the Explorer's optional third seat area is mostly suitable for kids. It does fold flat for cargo, however, which the TrailBlazer's does not.

Thankfully, most of the TrailBlazer's electronic features can be tailor-tuned to suit its driver's preferences.

Thankfully, most of the TrailBlazer's electronic features can be tailor-tuned to suit its driver's preferences. Unlike many well-featured vehicles, it doesn't presume to know what you want and when. Using the steering wheel buttons, you can easily program it to blink lights and/or beep the horn to signal remote door locking, for example. You can defeat the interior lights with a button on the dash when you don't want them on and disable the automatic headlamps with the console-mounted hand brake when at rest.


Compared to GM's more expensive full-size SUVs, the TrailBlazer EXT is nine inches longer than a Tahoe and 11.5 inches shorter than a Suburban. It's also four inches narrower than either, which does make it easier to maneuver and park. However, its 41.3-feet turning circle is five inches wider than the remarkably tight standard TB's 36.4 feet. And the EXT holds 22 cubic feet of cargo behind its third seat (four more than Tahoe) and an impressive 100.2 cubes behind its front seats (four less than Tahoe but 20 more than the standard TB).


To reiterate, the TrailBlazer EXT contains many of the standard model's outstanding features. However, that third seat and/or 20 cubic feet additional cargo room levy some compromises in the areas of performance, handling and, depending on personal taste, aesthetics. (www.chevrolet.com)