2026 TRAILBLAZER • ENGINES & EVERYDAY DRIVING
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers two turbocharged engines, with front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive depending on the configuration. Start with our new Trailblazer inventory, then compare the engine and drivetrain on the vehicles that interest you. Those details determine the transmission and the fuel-economy rating you should use.
For a commute into St. Louis, errands around Granite City or trips across the Metro East, the useful question is how a particular Trailblazer fits your normal driving. This guide keeps the 2026 engine specifications and EPA ratings separate so you can make that comparison clearly.
Chevrolet lists a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder and an available 1.3L turbo three-cylinder. The 1.3L is standard on ACTIV and RS, and every 2026 AWD Trailblazer uses the 1.3L with a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive configurations use a continuously variable transmission, or CVT.
On a smaller screen, scroll across the table to compare all columns.
| Engine | Output | Drivetrain and transmission |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2L turbo three-cylinder | 137 hp; 162 lb-ft of torque | Front-wheel drive; CVT |
| 1.3L turbo three-cylinder | 155 hp; 174 lb-ft of torque | Front-wheel drive with CVT, or AWD with nine-speed automatic |
The 2026 GM Trailblazer specification sheet identifies the engine outputs and AWD transmission. Ask for the window sticker to confirm which combination is installed; a trim badge alone does not settle every powertrain question.
For the 1.3L engine, the EPA publishes distinct FWD and AWD ratings. A higher highway figure should not be combined with a city figure from another configuration to create an imaginary best-of-both rating.
On a smaller screen, scroll across the table to compare all columns.
| Configuration | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.3L FWD, CVT | 29 | 33 | 31 |
| 1.3L AWD, nine-speed automatic | 26 | 29 | 27 |
These are EPA estimates, not a promise for every route. Speed, traffic, weather, load and driving habits affect actual mileage. The figures above come from the EPA/DOE records for 1.3L FWD and 1.3L AWD. For a 1.2L candidate, use its own fuel-economy label; do not apply the 1.3L table to it.
Choose around the conditions you actually encounter. If your driving is mostly ordinary paved-road travel, compare a FWD model first and decide whether the added AWD capability is important enough to change your shortlist. AWD is available across the 2026 LS, LT, ACTIV and RS range, so you can shop it separately from appearance preferences.
AWD does not remove the need for appropriate tires, good tread and careful driving. Ask to see the controls and the vehicle-specific instructions before deciding. For a used candidate, include tire condition and service history in the comparison, along with the drivetrain.
Start with the 1.3L FWD rating above, then compare the actual purchase quote, equipment and driving feel.
Compare an AWD vehicle with the nine-speed automatic. Confirm that configuration in the listing and on the window sticker.
ACTIV and RS share the 1.3L engine, but their equipment and appearance give you different reasons to choose them. ACTIV includes off-road suspension tuning and a functional skid plate; RS emphasizes a sportier appearance. Use our 2026 Trailblazer color guide to narrow the exterior after choosing the drivetrain and equipment you need.
During a test drive, try ordinary starts, a legal highway merge when practical, parking and the controls you use most often. Compare the response of the actual FWD CVT or AWD nine-speed vehicle. Engine output is useful for organizing the choices; it cannot tell you which seat, visibility or driving feel you will prefer.
If you plan to tow, bring the loaded trailer weight and the equipment requirements into the conversation before choosing a vehicle. A hitch, an AWD badge or an advertised model maximum does not establish the allowable load for a particular SUV. Use the exact owner’s manual and vehicle limits, including passengers, cargo and accessories.
Comparing used Trailblazer SUVs? Keep the model year separate from this 2026 guide and review available records. Our Trailblazer ownership and reliability checklist explains the questions to ask, while our Chevrolet service department can help with model-specific maintenance questions.
If your shortlist does not require AWD, include a Chevrolet Trax in the comparison and judge its cabin and features for yourself. If passenger or cargo needs lead you toward a different two-row SUV, explore the gasoline Equinox inventory. Compare the same model year and your actual must-have equipment.
Once a Trailblazer meets those needs, request an itemized vehicle quote and discuss the next steps with our finance team. Keep the vehicle, trade and financing details clear so an attractive feature does not distract from the complete purchase decision.
No. Chevrolet offers a 1.2L turbo and a 1.3L turbo. ACTIV and RS use the 1.3L, and every AWD configuration uses the 1.3L with a nine-speed automatic.
The EPA rates the 1.3L FWD configuration at 33 MPG highway and the 1.3L AWD configuration at 29 MPG highway. Use the label for the exact engine and drivetrain you are considering.
No. RS is offered with front-wheel drive or available AWD. Confirm the drivetrain on the actual vehicle instead of assuming it from the trim name.
Use it only for the 2026 specifications stated here. An older vehicle needs its own model-year information, window sticker or equipment record, and condition review.
Send us the stock number, drivetrain and features you want to compare. We will help you confirm availability and plan your visit to 3499 Progress Pkwy, Granite City, IL 62040.
