Chevrolet

Chevrolet’s attempt at countering the Fortuner, before Isuzu was allowed to introduce the MU-X, and GM exited South Africa in 2017.

Trailblazer was a Chevrolet reworking of the proven first-gen Isuzu MU-X chassis and engines. That means it rides quite well on gravel roads, thanks to the Isuzu chassis expertise.

The exterior design has aged well, and the Trailblazer’s third-row seating is superior to that of a Fortuner. However, its luggage capacity is slightly less than a Fortuner's.

Trailblazer’s 2.8 turbodiesel engine makes average power (144kW) but is quite durable. But the six-speed automatic transmission is slow-shifting by modern standards.

If you need a 7-seater SUV to tow the caravan, boat trailer or horsebox, the Trailblazer’s 3000kg braked tow rating is very handy.

All-terrain ride quality is better than a Fortuner, but the lack of a rear differential lock limits off-road ability.

Want a good-looking 7-seater SUV with all the ruggedness of body-on-frame construction and very low theft or hijacking risk? Chevrolet’s Trailblazer is a very decent and affordable alternative to premium-priced pre-owned white Fortuners…

With most of the mechanical components being Isuzu, it’s not that much of a challenge to keep a high-mileage Trailblazer running in South Africa.