There’s no denying that some people simply can’t live without a sport utility vehicle.  Perhaps it’s the product of being Opus Dei, but the fact is they need at least seven seats and a large enough load space for all clutter.  And although the Toyota Fortuner is enticing enough, some still prefer a lifestyle vehicle cum people carrier with bags more of kudos.  Enter the American-style SUVs: large, dominating, towering and able to swallow the wife and five kids in massive comfort.  But while you’re itching to head over to Ford’s showroom for the excellent Explorer, sit down and read on.  You see, while Ford has been churning out guilt-less vanilla ice-cream SUVs, their American rival, Chevrolet has dished out one hot tamale of an SUV: the Trailblazer.

As you approach this piece of metal from any angle, it’s not impressive—initially at least.  It may have more character than the dull-as-kitchen appliance Explorer and it may have the trademark headlight ‘slashing’ front grille; but for the most part, it’s formulaic and boring.  But while it scores a flat line in the looks department, much like the Explorer; the former has one ace that the Blue Oval missed out on: getting the size right.  The Explorer may be a capable 7-seater in its own right, but the third row bench is compromised of head and shoulder room.  And what’s more, you don’t get enough luggage space even for a day trip.  On the Chevy though, you get better breathing space plus a fraction more space for that weekend trek up Baguio.

Head to head, it’s easy to conclude that the Trailblazer has the size advantage is due to its longer body, given that the Trailblazer falls somewhat in the realm of the Expedition’s 5.2-meter length.  Continuous glances at the side view mirrors not withstanding, the Chevy is actually more adept to driving on small streets thanks to its narrower length.  Visibility is good with larger glass panels on all sides, though larger mirrors and a rear back-up sensor system should be added to ease backing into those tighter parking spaces.

Manageable bulk aside, the Chevy also has the upper hand in the steering and handling department thanks to its more responsive steering rack.  Though twirling the four-spoker is like twirling a dinner plate, it’s certainly more linear and has less dead center than the Expedition.  In addition, the lower ride height and center of gravity gives the Trailblazer a less floaty experience especially on higher speeds.  Compared to its size rival, the Explorer, though, the changes are much more subtle.  Both are wallowy (given their truck origins), but stable enough as not to cause mental images of accidental rollovers.  Both have equally comfortable rides, but the Trailblazer is less susceptible on choppy surfaces.  And both have good brakes, but the Ford manages to have a better pedal feel.

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