2017 Trailblazer Vs. Fortuner: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?
Hey guys! So, you're in the market for a solid SUV and have narrowed it down to the 2017 Chevrolet Trailblazer and the Toyota Fortuner? Awesome choice! Both of these vehicles are known for their ruggedness, spacious interiors, and overall reliability. But which one is really the best for you? Let's dive deep and break down all the key aspects to help you make the right decision. Buckle up; it’s going to be a detailed ride!
Design and Exterior
Let's kick things off with the looks. The 2017 Trailblazer boasts a more American, muscular design. Think bold lines, a prominent grille, and an overall sturdy appearance. It’s the kind of SUV that says, “I’m ready for anything.” The designers at Chevrolet clearly aimed for a blend of toughness and sophistication. The higher trims often feature chrome accents and stylish alloy wheels, adding a touch of class to its rugged demeanor. The headlights are large and imposing, flanking a dual-port grille that makes a statement on the road. Ground clearance is generous, hinting at its off-road capabilities, while the roof rails add practicality for those weekend adventures. The rear design is equally robust, with large taillights and a prominent bumper that completes its strong presence. For those who prioritize a commanding presence and a traditionally American SUV design, the Trailblazer certainly delivers. The focus is on making a statement, both in the city and on rough terrains. It balances functionality with an assertive aesthetic, appealing to those who want their vehicle to reflect a sense of adventure and capability. Overall, the Trailblazer's design is a testament to Chevrolet's commitment to creating vehicles that are both practical and visually appealing, ensuring it stands out in a crowded SUV market. It’s a design that speaks to those who value durability, strength, and a touch of American flair. Whether navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Trailblazer's design ensures it looks the part, embodying the spirit of adventure and resilience.
On the other hand, the Toyota Fortuner has a more sleek and modern aesthetic. It’s got that classic Toyota reliability with a touch of elegance. You'll notice sharper lines, a more refined grille, and an overall contemporary feel. Toyota aimed for a design that appeals to a broader audience, blending ruggedness with a touch of sophistication. The front fascia features slim headlights that integrate seamlessly with the grille, creating a more streamlined look. Chrome accents are strategically placed to enhance its premium feel without being overly flashy. The Fortuner’s side profile is clean and aerodynamic, with a rising beltline that adds a sense of motion. The rear design is equally refined, featuring sleek taillights and a well-integrated spoiler. Ground clearance is still substantial, maintaining its off-road capability, but the overall design feels more polished. The interior complements the exterior with a focus on comfort and modern features. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, and the layout is designed for ease of use. The Fortuner’s design reflects Toyota’s attention to detail and commitment to quality. It’s an SUV that looks equally at home in the city and on adventurous trails. The sleek lines and modern touches make it stand out, while the robust build ensures it’s capable of handling various driving conditions. For those who value a blend of style, comfort, and reliability, the Fortuner is an excellent choice. It combines practicality with a touch of elegance, making it a versatile SUV for both daily commutes and weekend getaways. The Fortuner's design is a testament to Toyota's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of SUV buyers, offering a vehicle that is both visually appealing and functionally superior.
Interior and Features
Inside the Trailblazer, you'll find a spacious cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. The seats are comfortable, making it great for long road trips. The higher trims come with leather upholstery and all the bells and whistles you’d expect, like a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a premium sound system. The dashboard is well-organized with intuitive controls, ensuring that drivers can easily access essential functions without distraction. Storage compartments are abundant, providing ample space for stowing away personal items. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and entertainment options. The second and third-row seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, making it versatile for hauling gear and luggage. The Trailblazer's interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a comfortable and functional space for both driver and passengers. The climate control system is effective in maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the cabin, even in extreme weather conditions. Safety features include multiple airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes, ensuring a safe and secure ride. The Trailblazer's interior is a testament to Chevrolet's commitment to providing a comfortable and versatile SUV that meets the needs of modern families. It’s an interior that is both practical and well-equipped, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and convenience. Whether it’s a daily commute or a long road trip, the Trailblazer’s interior provides a pleasant and functional environment for all occupants, enhancing the overall driving experience.
In the Fortuner, the interior is more refined and upscale. It also seats seven, but the materials and finishes feel a bit more premium. You'll get a similar suite of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, but Toyota often includes some unique tech like their Toyota Safety Sense package. The dashboard design is modern and elegant, with a focus on creating a premium driving experience. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys more enjoyable. The infotainment system is user-friendly and features a high-resolution display. Connectivity options include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration with smartphones. The Fortuner also offers advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety and peace of mind. The second and third-row seats can be easily folded down to create a spacious cargo area, making it practical for hauling larger items. The Fortuner's interior is designed with attention to detail, offering a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. The climate control system is highly efficient, maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cabin. The Fortuner’s interior is a testament to Toyota's commitment to quality and innovation, providing a premium SUV experience that is both practical and stylish. Whether it’s navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Fortuner’s interior offers a refined and comfortable space that enhances the overall driving experience. It’s an interior that stands out for its attention to detail, advanced features, and overall sense of luxury.
Performance and Engine
Under the hood, the 2017 Trailblazer typically comes with a Duramax diesel engine. This engine provides plenty of torque for towing and off-roading. It's a workhorse! The Duramax engine is known for its reliability and power, making it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. The engine delivers strong acceleration and smooth performance, ensuring a confident driving experience. The Trailblazer's suspension is designed to handle rough terrain, providing a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads. The four-wheel-drive system offers excellent traction and control, making it capable of tackling challenging off-road conditions. The Trailblazer is also equipped with a range of driver-assist features, such as hill start assist and hill descent control, enhancing safety and convenience. The Trailblazer's engine and performance are a testament to Chevrolet's commitment to providing a capable and reliable SUV that can handle a variety of driving conditions. Whether it’s towing a trailer or exploring off-road trails, the Trailblazer delivers the power and performance needed to get the job done. The Duramax engine’s reputation for durability and efficiency makes it a standout choice for those who value both performance and reliability. Overall, the Trailblazer’s engine and performance capabilities make it a versatile and dependable SUV that is well-suited for both daily commutes and adventurous excursions.
The Fortuner usually offers a range of engine options, including both diesel and gasoline variants. The diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency, while the gasoline engines provide a smoother and quieter ride. The Fortuner’s engines are designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, making it a versatile SUV for various driving needs. The suspension system is tuned to provide a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved roads. The four-wheel-drive system offers excellent traction and control, ensuring confident performance in challenging conditions. The Fortuner is also equipped with a range of driver-assist features, such as vehicle stability control and traction control, enhancing safety and stability. The Fortuner's engine and performance are a testament to Toyota's commitment to providing a reliable and versatile SUV that meets the needs of a wide range of drivers. Whether it’s navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Fortuner delivers the performance and efficiency needed for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The availability of both diesel and gasoline engines allows buyers to choose the option that best suits their driving preferences and needs. Overall, the Fortuner’s engine and performance capabilities make it a standout choice in the SUV market, known for its reliability, versatility, and overall driving experience.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability is where both of these SUVs shine. Toyota has a stellar reputation, and the Fortuner lives up to it. The Trailblazer is also quite reliable, but some owners have reported minor issues here and there. Regular maintenance is key to keeping both in top shape. Toyota's extensive service network and readily available parts make maintenance relatively straightforward. Chevrolet also has a widespread service network, but some parts may be more expensive or harder to find depending on your location. Both SUVs benefit from regular servicing and adherence to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. This includes routine oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Keeping up with maintenance can prevent major issues and extend the lifespan of the vehicle. The reliability of both SUVs is a major selling point, as it gives owners peace of mind knowing that their vehicle is dependable. However, Toyota's reputation for reliability often gives the Fortuner an edge in this category. The cost of ownership is also a factor to consider, as maintenance and repair costs can vary between the two models. Overall, both the Trailblazer and Fortuner are reliable SUVs, but the Fortuner's reputation for longevity and readily available parts often make it a more appealing choice for those who prioritize reliability and ease of maintenance.
Price and Value
When it comes to price, the Trailblazer often has a slight edge, typically being a bit more affordable than the Fortuner. However, keep in mind that prices can vary based on trim level, condition, and location. Consider what features are most important to you and see which SUV offers the best value for your money. The Trailblazer's lower price point can make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, it's important to consider the long-term value, including factors such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and resale value. The Fortuner's higher price may be justified by its reputation for reliability and its advanced features. It's also worth comparing the standard features offered by each SUV at different trim levels. Some buyers may find that the Trailblazer offers better value for money, while others may prefer the Fortuner's premium features and reputation. Ultimately, the best value depends on individual needs and preferences. It's recommended to test drive both SUVs and compare their features and prices to determine which one offers the best overall value. Considering the total cost of ownership, including factors such as insurance, registration, and depreciation, is also essential. Overall, the Trailblazer's lower price point may make it an attractive option for some buyers, while the Fortuner's reputation and features may justify its higher price for others.
The Verdict
So, which SUV reigns supreme? It really depends on what you're looking for!
- If you want a rugged, American-designed SUV with a powerful diesel engine and don't mind a few potential minor reliability quirks, the 2017 Trailblazer is a solid choice.
- If you prioritize reliability, a more refined interior, and a wider range of engine options, the Toyota Fortuner is an excellent pick.
No matter which way you lean, both the 2017 Trailblazer and the Fortuner are capable SUVs that will serve you well. Happy driving, folks! Just make sure to test drive both before making a final decision. You might be surprised which one feels better behind the wheel!
