MODEL
Chevrolet Trailblazer
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Trailblazer model year we cover.
Across the 6 model years of the Chevrolet Trailblazer we cover (2021 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 96 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 86. 5 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a subcompact SUV that slots below the Equinox in GM's lineup, targeting younger buyers and urban drivers who want a stylish, maneuverable crossover at an accessible price point. Now in its current generation since 2021, it competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, going up against the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, and Ford EcoSport.
From a pure safety standpoint, the Chevrolet Trailblazer has a genuinely encouraging story to tell, and the numbers back that up. The 2025 model earns a MotorCaliber Safety Index of 96 out of 100, landing in our Exceptional band - the strongest rating in our covered range. Crash-test performance across the generation is competitive, with the best years posting a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side impact testing. The rollover rating holds at 4 out of 5 stars, which is typical for a taller, narrower subcompact SUV body style and worth keeping in mind for buyers prioritizing that specific metric. Across the 2021 through 2025 model years, NHTSA records show 5 recalls. That is a modest total for a five-year production window, and nothing that should raise immediate alarm flags for shoppers. Owner complaints number 386 across the covered years, with 17 alleged crashes, 4 fire-related allegations, and 11 reported injuries among them. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed incidents, but the complaint volume is worth monitoring as the model ages. The bottom line: the Trailblazer has steadily improved its safety profile year over year, and the 2025 version represents the strongest version of this vehicle from a safety standpoint. Buyers prioritizing crash-test scores will find a lot to like here.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Trailblazer as a stylish and practical choice in the subcompact SUV segment, praising its sharp exterior design and comfortable interior for the class. Most acknowledge it as a strong value-oriented option, though some note that more powerful rivals exist. Overall sentiment toward the model is positive, with safety and feature content frequently highlighted as strengths.
- The 2025 Trailblazer earns a 96 out of 100 MotorCaliber Safety Index, placing it in our Exceptional band - the highest rating seen across the 2021 to 2025 model years covered.
- Frontal and side crash-test results reach 5 out of 5 stars in the best-performing years, but the rollover rating holds at 4 out of 5 stars, a figure shoppers should weigh given the subcompact SUV's taller ride height.
- Five recalls have been issued across the 2021 to 2025 model years. Shoppers should verify that any used Trailblazer they consider has had all open recall work completed before purchase by checking the VIN on NHTSA's official recall database.
- Owner complaints total 386 across the covered model years, including 17 alleged crashes and 4 fire-related allegations. These are unverified reports, but tracking complaint trends on NHTSA's website is a smart habit for any Trailblazer owner.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer with 4 recalls.