2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer

2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER DEBUTS THE NORTH FACE EDITION; TRAILBLAZER EXT OFFERS V8 POWER

The Chevy TrailBlazer for 2003 offers The North Face Edition, and TrailBlazer EXT has V8 power available to give Chevy a 'one-two punch' aimed at the midsize SÚV segment. Both offer an unequaled combination of strength, power and high-tech precision, wrapped in a design that evokes patented Chevy Truck toughness.

Since its debut last year, the TrailBlazer has already become a sales leader in the midsize SÚV segment. This past spring, Chevrolet introduced the TrailBlazer EXT with a spacious third row seat, seating for seven people and cargo space behind the third seat. For 2003, TrailBlazer models offer significant enhancements.

The North Face Edition
The North Face Edition package, available in both two- and four-wheel-drive TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT models, offers unique features that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Starting with a TrailBlazer LTZ or TrailBlazer EXT with the Leather Plus Package, Chevy adds or replaces various equipment. The exterior features lower accent-color body cladding, body-colored outside rear-view mirrors, running lamps, a liftgate luggage rack, headlamp washers, B-pillar badging and even a clothesline. The interior offers unique The North Face seats, mesh map pockets, rain-sense wipers, liftgate lighting, an underfloor storage cargo liner, heavy-duty floor/cargo mats, an adjustable cargo shelf with a table (EXT model only) and The North Face duffel bags and blanket. Several other features are required in order to get The North Face Edition Package, including blackwall tires, skid plates (4WD models), locking rear axle and heated seats.

New Vortec 5300 5.3L V8
This fall, the TrailBlazer EXT will offer an optional Vortec 5300 5.3L V8 - the first Vortec V8 featuring an aluminum block. It will deliver 290 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. That means a properly equipped TrailBlazer EXT can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The aluminum block's reduced mass and superior thermal efficiency enhance performance and fuel efficiency compared to its cast-iron counterpart. The engine meets federal and California Últra Low Emissions Vehicle (ÚLEV) standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)

The new V8 joins the Vortec 4200 4.2L I6, which combines advanced technology with the proven balance of an inline-six engine to offer power and smoothness, while providing excellent fuel efficiency. The naturally balanced configuration virtually eliminates shake and idle roll. The standard Vortec 4200 engine delivers the most horsepower in its segment - 275 hp (increased from 270 hp) with 275 lb-ft of torque for strong trailer towing capacity. It meets or exceeds all sound requirements while providing outstanding 0-to-60-mph and 50-to-70-mph performance.

Both the Vortec 4200 and aluminum Vortec 5300 V8 are mated to GM's proven Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)

Strong, sure-footed and comfortable
TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT may be powerhouses, but they don't sacrifice refined ride and handling, ample cargo and passenger space, or long-lasting dependability. The TrailBlazer EXT has room for more than 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third seat. The second and third rows can be folded flat to allow 100.2 cubic feet of cargo space.

TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT combine Chevy Truck toughness and unprecedented precision. Hydroformed steel frame side rails form a strong foundation for the truck's overall strength, optimum structural feel and ride quality. The frame's torsional stiffness helps the performance of suspension components.

A five-link rear suspension combines with an independent, double-A-arm front suspension and hydraulic power-assist rack-and-pinion steering for superior responsiveness, quietness and performance, providing ride and handling more like a European sport sedan than a traditional truck.

Other tried and true Chevy Truck characteristics include a standard Autotrac four-wheel-drive system on 4x4 models. Traction control is available as an option for two-wheel-drive models.

TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT also have a heating/ventilation/air conditioning system (HVAC) which has been rated one of the best against 'best-in-class' competitors, both car and truck. Its dual zones and high-airflow system warms up and cools down faster than virtually any other system in the segment or price range.

Safe environment
The TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT provide a strong safety package. Four-wheel vented disc antilock brakes (ABS) are standard as well as dual-stage air bags for front seating positions and three-point restraint systems for all seating positions (including the middle rear). Side-impact air bags for front seating positions are also available.

Braking is at world-class levels in terms of noise, wear and brake feel. An advanced system of 12 specially tuned body mounts uses hydraulics and rubber pads to isolate road inputs and noise, limiting vibration and harshness dramatically on any kind of road or trail.

The vehicle offers excellent visibility and a commanding view of the road. The TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT driver information center has a 22-character message display, giving drivers feedback on dozens of vehicle systems and conditions. The next-generation OnStar system provides hands-free calling, information services and many other features.

Source - GM Corporation