If you are looking for a small SUV, the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer stands out as a relatively spacious option and carries over from the previous model year with minimal changes. For 2026, Chevrolet adds White Sands and Apex Red to the exterior paint palette, and the Trailblazer also gains a standard tire inflator kit. Pricing starts at $31,295, including the $1,795 destination charge.
Subcompact SUVs are the smallest you can buy, but that does not mean they all have low cargo capacity. There are models in this class that offer more than enough room for your belongings, and the Chevrolet Trailblazer is one example. This pint-sized hauler provides 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats and 54.4 cubic feet with its rear seats lowered. That is solid utility for drivers seeking a small crossover SUV that is both affordable and practical.
Chevy offers the 2026 Trailblazer in four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and Activ. The base LS includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless smartphone integration. The LT adds keyless entry and remote engine start, while the RS includes larger wheels, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. If you want to tackle a fire road or venture out on a trail or two, go with the Activ trim. It includes sport-terrain tires, off-road suspension tuning, and an underbody skid plate.
Buyers can choose from two engines. The base setup is a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain is standard on the LS and LT trims. The RS and Activ trims upgrade to a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine with 155 hp and 174 pound-feet of torque. All front-wheel-drive Trailblazers have a continuously variable automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available for better traction on dirt, snow, and rain, and those so equipped use a nine-speed automatic transmission to control power.
Driver aids serve as an extra pair of eyes when you are on the road, and the Trailblazer offers many of them. Base models include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance. Optional safety features include blind spot warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic warning, and rear parking sensors.
The Trailblazer faces stiff competition, some of it from Chevy's own lineup. The brand also offers the Trax, a small crossover SUV that costs less than the Trailblazer and offers nearly identical cargo space. The Trax delivers impressive value, but unlike its stablemate, it does not offer AWD. The Mazda CX-30 is another excellent pick in this class. It offers sportier driving dynamics and a more upscale cabin than the Trailblazer, but it trails the Chevy in cargo capacity. The Buick Envista, Kia Seltos, and Volkswagen Taos are also worthwhile choices.
Chevrolet is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of January 20, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Warren Clarke is an automotive journalist specializing in vehicle reviews and consumer advice. In addition to JD Power, he's written for outlets including Credit Karma, Capital One Auto Navigator, U.S. News and World Report, and Car and Driver.
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