Meet the 2027 Chevy Trax & Trailblazer: What’s New?

October 9th, 2026 by

2027 Chevy Trax and Trailblazer at Jack Schmitt Chevrolet

Chevrolet has revealed the updated 2027 Chevy Trax and 2027 Chevy Trailblazer, bringing new technology, expanded safety features, refreshed styling, and a simplified lineup to two of its most affordable SUVs.

The big news includes larger standard displays, more than 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, and an all-new Trailblazer Z71 with standard all-wheel drive.

For SUV shoppers in Wood River, Edwardsville, Alton, Granite City, and the greater St. Louis area, there’s another important question: Are the 2027 upgrades worth waiting for, or does a 2026 model make more sense today?

Here’s what Chevrolet has announced.

2027 Chevy Trax: What’s New?

The 2027 Trax receives a substantial refresh focused on technology, convenience, and design while retaining its practical, affordable small-SUV appeal.

Larger Screens and New Technology

One of the most noticeable improvements is the upgraded interior technology.

The 2027 Trax will feature:

  • A standard 11.3-inch center touchscreen
  • A standard 11-inch digital Driver Information Center
  • Google built-in with Google Gemini compatibility
  • More than 20 standard safety and driver assistance features
  • A redesigned interior with updated materials and styling

For comparison, the 2026 Trax offers an available 11-inch touchscreen, while the 2027 model makes its larger display standard.

Refreshed Styling and New Features

The exterior gets a redesigned grille, updated LED lighting, new wheel designs, and a revised liftgate.

A power liftgate will also be available on the Trax for the first time.

New exterior colors include Lagoon, Sunrise Orange, and Pacific Blue Metallic.

A Simpler Three-Trim Lineup

Chevrolet is reducing the Trax lineup from five trims in 2026 to three for 2027:

  • LT: Technology, convenience, and value
  • RS: Sportier styling and distinctive wheels
  • ACTIV: Adventure-inspired appearance and unique design details

The 2027 Trax will continue to offer front-wheel drive only. Buyers who want available AWD should look at the Trailblazer instead.

2027 Chevy Trailblazer: A New Z71 and More Standard Power

The Trailblazer is also receiving meaningful upgrades for 2027, particularly for drivers who want additional capability.

Introducing the 2027 Trailblazer Z71

The biggest addition is the new Trailblazer Z71, bringing Chevrolet’s established off-road-oriented trim designation to its small-SUV lineup.

The Z71 includes:

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Off-road-tuned suspension
  • Sport-terrain tires
  • A functional front steel skid plate
  • Distinctive exterior styling and orange interior accents

The 2026 Trailblazer ACTIV already offers off-road-oriented equipment, including specialized suspension tuning and skid-plate protection. The 2027 Z71 builds on that idea with its own styling and standard AWD.

For Metro East drivers dealing with winter weather, gravel roads, or outdoor recreation, the Z71 could be an interesting option.

The 1.3L Turbo Engine Becomes Standard

Another significant change is under the hood.

The 2026 Trailblazer comes standard with a 1.2L turbocharged engine, while a more powerful 1.3L engine is available.

For 2027, Chevrolet is making the 1.3L turbo engine standard, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque.

The updated Trailblazer also gets three standard drive modes: Normal, Sport, and Snow.

Improved Interior and Technology

Like the Trax, the 2027 Trailblazer receives an 11.3-inch center touchscreen and 11-inch Driver Information Center.

Additional improvements include a redesigned center console, a new column-mounted shifter, more flexible storage, and rear-seat air vents.

An AutoSense power liftgate will also be available.

The 2027 Trailblazer lineup will include three trims: LT, RS, and Z71.

More Standard Safety Technology on Both SUVs

Both 2027 models benefit from an upgraded electrical and software architecture that enables more than 20 standard safety and driver assistance features.

Newly standard technologies include features such as:

  • Reverse Automatic Braking
  • Rear Cross Traffic Braking
  • Side Bicyclist Alert
  • Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Front Park Assist
  • Rear Seat Belt Indicator

These features can provide useful assistance during everyday driving, parking, and maneuvering. They do not replace driver attention or safe driving practices.

2027 Trax vs. 2027 Trailblazer: Key Differences

Feature 2027 Trax 2027 Trailblazer
Trims LT, RS, ACTIV LT, RS, Z71
Touchscreen 11.3-inch standard 11.3-inch standard
Driver Display 11-inch standard 11-inch standard
AWD Not available Available; standard on Z71
Engine 1.2L Turbo 1.3L Turbo
New Highlight Available power liftgate New Z71 trim
Expected Availability Spring 2027 Late spring 2027

The Trax continues to emphasize affordability and everyday practicality. The Trailblazer adds available AWD, greater capability, and the new Z71 option.

When Will the 2027 Chevy Trax and Trailblazer Be Available?

Chevrolet expects the 2027 Trax to arrive in spring 2027, with the 2027 Trailblazer following in late spring 2027.

Official pricing for the new models has not yet been announced.

As additional information becomes available, shoppers will be able to compare final prices, equipment, and availability.

Should You Buy a 2026 Chevy SUV or Wait for 2027?

The 2027 updates are appealing, but waiting several months won’t make sense for everyone.

Reasons to Consider a 2026 Trax or Trailblazer

  • You need a vehicle now rather than next spring.
  • You prefer to shop vehicles with established pricing and current offers.
  • The existing technology and safety equipment meet your needs.
  • You want to compare actual vehicles and take a test drive before deciding.

The 2026 Trax already offers useful technology, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with available convenience features.

The 2026 Trailblazer also offers an 11-inch standard touchscreen, available AWD, and the available 1.3L turbo engine.

Reasons to Consider Waiting for a 2027 Model

  • You specifically want the expanded standard safety equipment.
  • The larger digital displays are important to you.
  • You’re interested in the new Trailblazer Z71.
  • You don’t need to replace your vehicle immediately.
  • You’re comfortable waiting until final pricing and availability are announced.

There isn’t one right answer for every buyer. The best choice depends on which features matter to you, your budget, and when you need a vehicle.

Shop Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer SUVs Near St. Louis

If you’re considering a new compact SUV, Jack Schmitt Chevrolet of Wood River can help you compare the current Trax and Trailblazer lineup.

Explore our available new Chevrolet Trax inventory and new Chevrolet Trailblazer inventory to compare trims, features, and current pricing.

You can also estimate your trade-in value before making a decision.

Jack Schmitt Chevrolet of Wood River is located at 1870 E. Edwardsville Rd., Wood River, IL 62095, serving drivers throughout Alton, Edwardsville, Granite City, Roxana, Collinsville, and the St. Louis Metro East.

Find Your Next Chevrolet SUV

Compare available Trax and Trailblazer models, explore current pricing, and find the SUV that fits your needs.

BROWSE NEW CHEVROLET INVENTORY

Questions? Call (618) 259-4900 or get directions to our dealership.

2027 vehicle details reflect Chevrolet’s announced specifications as of October 9, 2026. Production specifications, equipment, pricing, and availability are subject to change.