Many people are expressing their disappointment over the discontinuation of the Chevrolet Spark, a model that represents the brand’s compact cars. With its compact body and Chevrolet's signature nimble handling, the Spark remains popular in the used car market due to its economical maintenance costs and driving fun.
Today, I would like to introduce the "Trailblazer." Although it’s not a compact car, it serves as a worthy alternative to the discontinued Spark, fulfilling its role effectively.
Recently, the 2026 Trailblazer was released, featuring premium infotainment options that were previously exclusive to higher trims as standard. The vehicle offers additional convenience features like a panoramic sunroof, Chevrolet bowtie projection hands-free power liftgate, and a Bose premium 7-speaker system, all while maintaining the same pricing as before.
The announced prices are as follows: the base model starts at 27,570,000 KRW (approximately $21,000 USD) with a 3.5% tax, the RS trim is priced at 30,520,000 KRW (about $23,000 USD), the limited edition Active model is 32,500,000 KRW (around $24,500 USD), and the all-wheel drive (AWD) option is 35,650,000 KRW (approximately $27,000 USD). Notably, the Active AWD trim features a switchable AWD system that allows for easy mode changes, making it a standout performer in its class.
Personally, I believe the Trailblazer does not require the AWD option. I would recommend opting for the Active trim, which is priced in the low $20,000s, or the base Premier trim at $21,000 USD as a wise choice.
The Trailblazer features a 1.35-liter E-Turbo engine paired with a 9-speed transmission, delivering a maximum output of 156 horsepower and a peak torque of 24.1 kg·m.
When driving, the accelerator response feels very lively, and the power delivery remains strong even at speeds exceeding 62 mph. The sensation of power can feel comparable to around 200 horsepower. Of course, due to the engine displacement limits, it may feel slightly sluggish at higher outputs.
In everyday city driving, the Trailblazer performs adequately, with an average fuel efficiency of about 11 km/L (approximately 26 mpg).
If you focus on fuel efficiency, you could achieve over 15 km/L (approximately 35 mpg). However, my testing conditions led to a lower average, yet I still managed to maintain 11.7 km/L (around 27 mpg).
The Trailblazer actually offers better fuel efficiency than the Spark. Its unique two-tone color combination of blue and white roofs appeals to younger female drivers in their 20s and 30s.
The 2026 model includes a revived Pistachio Khaki color in a two-tone scheme and adds a new Mochaccino Beige, expanding the available options. This aligns with Pantone's color trend for the year, which is "Mochamus."
The design looks appealing, reminiscent of the popular Tivoli that once dominated the compact SUV market in Korea. Chevrolet may be hoping the Trailblazer can fill the gap left by the Tivoli.
The Trailblazer has achieved impressive sales of over 570,000 units in the North American market, where full-size SUVs and pickup trucks dominate, showcasing its popularity as a compact SUV.
However, one downside is that while the exterior design and colors pop, the interior feels somewhat outdated. This is likely due to the trend of new cars moving toward cleaner, more minimalist interiors, as seen in electric vehicles like Tesla.
It's clear that the Trailblazer retains Chevrolet's characteristic sturdy chassis and responsive steering, which remain strong points of the vehicle.
The ride quality is adequate, providing a comfortable experience.
