If you're looking into getting a new SUV for 2026, there's two in the Chevy lineup that share a similar name. These are the Blazer and the Trailblazer. While similar in name, they target different buyers. The Trailblazer being the more compact option of the Blazer, we'll take a look at how else they differ so you know which is best for you.
Key takeaways
- When putting the two models head to head, you'll find that the Trailblazer has more options, and is cheaper than the Blazer.
- The Blazer is the larger and more powerful of the two, making it the one you want to look for if you want the most adrenaline fueled ride.
- Both models are unique, but they do share some similar colors.
How much should I pay for a 2026 Trailblazer?
For 2026, the Trailblazer starts at $25,095. When comparing the two models' lineups, you'll find that the Trailblazer has 4 trims compared to the Blazer's 3 trims. The trims that you can find on the Trailblazer are the LS starting at $25,095, LT starting at $26,295, RS starting at $29,695, and the ACTIV starting at $29,695.
Looking at the Blazer's trims, you'll find the 2LT starting at $36,295, 3LT starting at $41,695, and the RS starting at $45,595. With this model costing more than the Trailblazer, it does come with some decent features. As per Car and Driver, they think that the one that you should get is the 3LT. Sitting at the middle of the pack, they think this is the best one to get as it comes standard with blind-spot monitoring.
2026 Chevy Trailblazer Colors
The 2026 Trailblazer comes in 6 colors. Comparing both models, you'll find that their colors are a bit different. The colors that you can find on each model can be found in the table below.
2026 colors by model
| Colors |
Blazer |
Trailblazer |
| Summit White |
Available |
Available |
| Black |
Available |
Not Available |
| Habanero Orange |
Available |
Not Available |
| Riptide Blue |
Available |
Not Available |
| Sterling Gray |
Available |
Available |
| Radiant Red |
Available |
Not Available |
| Apex Red |
Not Available |
Available |
| Mosaic Black |
Not Available |
Available |
| Cacti Green |
Not Available |
Available |
| Mariana Blue |
Not Available |
Available |
| White Sands |
Not Available |
Available |
| Iridescent Pearl |
Not Available |
Available |
2026 Chevy Trailblazer Specs
The 2026 Trailblazer can put out 155 horsepower at most. For 2026, the Trailblazer comes with two engines. The weaker of the two engines being the 1.2L I3, and this makes 137 horsepower, and 162 lb-ft of torque. While this isn't the most powerful, if that is something that you want, then you'll want to opt for the turbocharged 1.3L I3. That is because this engine outputs 155 horsepower, and 174 lb-ft of torque. For this one, the 1.3L is the most efficient engine, coming with an EPA rated 31 MPG combined.
Moving to the Blazer, this model also comes with two engines. We'll start off with the weaker of the two, with this one being the 2.0L I4 that makes 228 horsepower. While this is more than the Trailblazer, we understand some drivers may want more, and that's where the V6 steps in. This one is the 3.6L V6 and makes 308 horsepower. If you're wanting the one with the best mileage, then you'll want the 2.0L as it gets 25 MPG combined.
Which Chevy SUV should I get?
When it comes to compact vs midsize SUV Chevy, we really think it just comes down to price and power. If you're wanting something that is a bit more friendly for the average soccer mom, then we think that the Trailblazer is more than enough. If you have a larger crew to haul around, opt for the Blazer. But no matter what you want, we invite you to come down to Banner Chevrolet. We have some of the best inventory around for you to look at.