General Motors is a global enterprise, but it hasn’t always acted like one. Today, the company is much more efficient and focused on developing models that can be sold in diverse markets. The new 2013 Trailblazer is an example of a global product that is geared toward a certain region’s needs.
It’s no coincidence then that General Motors is focusing the introduction of its new Trailblazer in Thailand. Incidentally, Thailand is the world’s largest market for mid-size trucks and SUVs. This time around the Trailblazer has been redeveloped with a global focus, designed to be sold in 60 countries on five different continents.
With a body-on-frame platform underneath, the Trailblazer puts an emphasis on looking the off-road part. It is comparatively rugged compared to most crossovers today, with a high ride height and large tires that give a glimpse at its capabilities. It doesn’t go for rakish rooflines or low-slung styling, instead having a utilitarian focus.
Unlike the previous generation model, the Trailblazer also adds a third-row rear seat so you can put the kids back there, or adults in a pinch (poor things…). There appears to be plastic setbacks, which enables the seats to be folded down for a relatively flat load floor.
Power comes from two turbo diesels, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 2.8-liter four-cylinder. A 2.8-liter four-cylinder is definitely on the big side in terms of engine capacity, and this engine makes 180 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque (no, that isn’t a typo). The 2.5-liter makes 150 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Currently, the Tahoe is GM’s only true off-road capable, body-on-frame SUV in the U.S. Traverse is three rows, but unable to tackle any rough terrain of significance. The Trailblazer would target a different kind of customer, filling a niche GM doesn’t play in at the moment. We think it should be brought over, and that it could do well if marketed properly. Jeep is experiencing record sales in the U.S and around the world. The official line right now is that there is “no plans” to bring it to the United States. We’ve heard that one before though….
