As a golfer who loves weekend rounds and occasional road trips to new courses, I’ve spent plenty of time hauling clubs and gear, making a reliable SUV essential.
The Chevrolet Trailblazer and Chevrolet Traverse are two compelling options from Chevy’s lineup, each offering distinct advantages for golfers.
This comparison guide dives into their features, performance, and suitability to help you choose the right vehicle for your golfing lifestyle.
From cargo space to fuel efficiency, I’ll share insights to ensure your next SUV enhances your game and travel experience.
Comparison Table: Chevrolet Trailblazer Vs. Chevrolet Traverse
| Feature | Chevrolet Trailblazer | Chevrolet Traverse |
| Starting MSRP | $24,495 | $42,195 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers | 7–8 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity (Seats Up) | 25.3 cu.ft. | 22.9 cu.ft. |
| Max Cargo Capacity | 54.4 cu.ft. | 98.2 cu.ft. |
| Engine (Base) | 1.2L Turbo 4-Cylinder, 137 hp | 3.6L V6, 310 hp |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 29/31 MPG | 18/27 MPG |
| Infotainment Screen | 7-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen |
| Climate Control | Single-zone manual | Tri-zone automatic |
| All-Wheel Drive | Available ($1,300 extra) | Available ($2,000 extra) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 1,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
My Journey With Chevrolet SUVs
My passion for SUVs stems from their versatility, perfect for hauling golf bags and navigating winding roads to remote courses. As an amateur golfer with a 15 handicap, I prioritize vehicles that balance cargo space, comfort, and efficiency for my weekend outings.
To evaluate the Trailblazer and Traverse, I test-drove both, loaded them with golf gear, and took them on highway and city routes to mimic typical golf trips.
Key Features Of Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Design Philosophy & Target User: The Trailblazer is a compact SUV designed for urban drivers and small groups, offering nimble handling and efficiency. Its sleek styling and smaller footprint appeal to solo golfers or those with one or two playing partners who value maneuverability and affordability.
- Specific Features:
- Cargo Space: With 25.3 cu.ft. behind the second row, it easily fits two golf bags and accessories, ideal for a quick range session or a weekend getaway. The 60/40 split-folding seats expand to 54.4 cu.ft., providing flexibility for extra gear like coolers or travel bags.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Trailblazer’s 1.2L turbo engine delivers 29 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, reducing fuel costs for frequent trips to local courses or driving ranges.
- Infotainment System: The 7-inch Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting golfers stream navigation apps or playlists effortlessly during drives.
- Summary: The Trailblazer is best suited for solo golfers or small groups who prioritize fuel economy and easy parking in urban settings.
Key Features Of Chevrolet Traverse
- Design Philosophy & Target User: The Traverse is a midsize, three-row SUV built for families or larger groups, offering ample space and power. It caters to golfers who travel with multiple playing partners or need room for additional cargo like golf carts or camping gear.
- Specific Features:
- Cargo Space: With 22.9 cu.ft. behind the third row and up to 98.2 cu.ft. with seats folded, the Traverse can handle multiple golf bags, push carts, and even bulky items like portable golf simulators for group trips.
- Powerful Engine: Its 3.6L V6 engine produces 310 hp, making it ideal for towing small trailers or golf carts, with a capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.
- Advanced Technology: The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and tri-zone climate control ensure comfort for all passengers, especially on long drives to destination courses.
- Summary: The Traverse is ideal for golfers with larger groups or those needing significant cargo and towing capacity for extended golf trips.
Pros Of Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Affordability: Starting at $24,495, the Trailblazer is nearly $18,000 less than the Traverse, making it a budget-friendly choice for golfers who don’t need extra seating. I found it perfect for my solo trips to the local course, with plenty of room for my bag and range finder.
- Fuel Efficiency: Its 29/31 MPG (city/highway) saved me noticeable fuel costs during a 200-mile round trip to a coastal course, compared to larger SUVs I’ve driven.
- Maneuverability: The compact size (173.5 inches long) made parking in crowded lots near urban courses a breeze, unlike bulkier SUVs that struggled in tight spaces.
Also read: My Thoughts on Honda Acura Integra Vs. Honda Accord.
Cons Of Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Limited Cargo Space: While sufficient for one or two golf bags, the 54.4 cu.ft. max cargo space felt restrictive when I tried loading a push cart and extra gear for a weekend trip.
- Lower Power: The 1.2L engine’s 137 hp was adequate for city driving but felt underpowered on highways, especially when climbing hills to a mountain course.
- Basic Climate Control: The single-zone manual climate control was less comfortable for passengers on warmer days, as I couldn’t adjust temperatures for rear-seat golfers.
Pros Of Chevrolet Traverse
- Spacious Interior: The Traverse’s 98.2 cu.ft. max cargo space easily accommodated four golf bags, a cooler, and travel bags for a group outing, with room to spare.
- Towing Capability: Its 5,000-lb towing capacity was a game-changer when I needed to haul a small trailer with golf carts for a charity tournament.
- Comfort Features: Tri-zone climate control and the larger 8-inch touchscreen made long drives to distant courses more enjoyable, keeping everyone cool and connected.
Cons Of Chevrolet Traverse
- Higher Price: Starting at $42,195, the Traverse is a significant investment, which may not suit golfers who don’t need the extra space or power.
- Lower Fuel Economy: Its 18/27 MPG (city/highway) increased fuel costs noticeably during a 300-mile trip, compared to the Trailblazer’s efficiency.
- Larger Footprint: At 204.3 inches long, the Traverse was harder to park in tight spaces, like the packed lots at popular golf resorts.
Analytical Breakdown: How They Compare On The Road
- Brief Intro: To compare the Trailblazer and Traverse for golfing needs, I tested both over a weekend trip to a resort course, a local round, and a range session, focusing on cargo, comfort, and driving dynamics.
- Cargo Space:
- Trailblazer: The 25.3 cu.ft. behind the second row fit two golf bags snugly, but adding a push cart required folding the seats, reducing passenger space. It was perfect for solo or duo trips but limiting for larger groups.
- Traverse: With 22.9 cu.ft. behind the third row, it fit three golf bags upright, and folding the third row allowed four bags plus accessories. It excelled for group outings or gear-heavy trips.
- Comfort:
- Trailblazer: The compact cabin was cozy for two but felt cramped with four passengers, especially on longer drives. The single-zone climate control led to disagreements over temperature settings.
- Traverse: The spacious interior and tri-zone climate control kept all passengers comfortable, even on a 3-hour drive to a course. The larger touchscreen enhanced navigation ease.
- Driving Dynamics:
- Trailblazer: Its nimble handling shone in city traffic and tight parking lots, making it ideal for urban golfers. However, the 137-hp engine struggled on steep inclines.
- Traverse: The 310-hp V6 provided confident acceleration and stability on highways, but its larger size made it less agile in crowded areas.
- Towing Capability:
- Trailblazer: Limited to 1,000 lbs, it couldn’t handle trailers or heavy gear, restricting its use for golfers needing to tow carts or equipment.
- Traverse: The 5,000-lb towing capacity easily managed a small trailer with golf carts, making it a standout for tournament organizers or group trips.
- Price And Value:
- Trailblazer: At $24,495, it offers great value for budget-conscious golfers who travel light, with low fuel costs and easy handling.
- Traverse: Priced at $42,195, it’s a premium choice but justifies its cost with space, power, and features for group-focused golfers.
Who Should Choose Which SUV?
- Recommendation For Trailblazer: Ideal for solo golfers or those with one or two partners, with handicaps of 10–20, who prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and easy parking. Best for urban golfers or short trips to local courses.
- Recommendation For Traverse: Suited for golfers with larger groups or families, with handicaps of 5–15, who need space for multiple bags, towing capability, and comfort on long drives. Perfect for road trips or tournament organizers.
My Real-World Experience
- Detailed Anecdote 1: During a solo trip to a local course, the Trailblazer’s compact size made parking effortless in a crowded lot. However, fitting my golf bag and a friend’s push cart required folding the seats, which wasn’t ideal when I picked up another player.
- Detailed Anecdote 2: On a group trip to a resort course, the Traverse shone. I loaded four golf bags, a cooler, and travel gear without issue, and the tri-zone climate control kept everyone comfortable during a hot 3-hour drive, unlike the Trailblazer’s more basic setup.
Why These SUVs Matter For Amateurs
- General Statement: Both the Trailblazer and Traverse are designed with practicality in mind, catering to amateur golfers who need reliable transport for gear and passengers.
- Benefits For Amateurs:
- Trailblazer: Its affordability and fuel efficiency make it accessible for casual golfers, while its compact size suits those navigating busy urban courses.
- Traverse: The spacious interior and towing capacity support group outings or family trips, with advanced features enhancing comfort for long drives.
- Reiteration Of Choice: The choice depends on your group size and trip frequency—solo golfers lean toward the Trailblazer, while group players benefit from the Traverse’s versatility.
Read more: My Thoughts on Honda Passport Vs. Acura RDX.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)
Who Should Use The Chevrolet Trailblazer?
Solo golfers or small groups who value affordability, fuel efficiency, and easy handling in urban settings.
What Is The Cargo Capacity Of The Chevrolet Trailblazer?
It offers 25.3 cu.ft. with seats up and 54.4 cu.ft. with the second row folded.
What Is The Best Chevrolet SUV For Group Golf Trips?
The Traverse, with its 7–8 passenger capacity and 98.2 cu.ft. max cargo space, is ideal for group trips.
Do Pros Use Compact Or Midsize SUVs For Golf?
Pros often prefer midsize SUVs like the Traverse for their space and towing capabilities, though compact options like the Trailblazer suit those traveling light.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Trailblazer and Traverse cater to different golfing needs: the Trailblazer excels for solo or small-group golfers with its affordability and efficiency, while the Traverse is a powerhouse for larger groups needing space and towing. Your choice hinges on group size, budget, and trip demands—both are reliable, but the Trailblazer suits urban players, and the Traverse shines for group adventures.
