Much to the delight of bowtie enthusiasts, the Trailblazer is finally returning to the Chevrolet brand after a 12-year absence. Though it won’t be the rugged body-on-frame 4x4 SUV it once was, the 2021 Trailblazer is returning with a new identity.
As an all-new subcompact crossover, the Trailblazer is slotted between the smaller Trax and compact Equinox SUVs in the Chevrolet lineup. In terms of overall size, the Trailblazer compares most favorably to the Encore GX—Buick’s newest subcompact SUV situated between the Encore and Envision.
Trailblazer vs Encore GX Dimensions and Cargo Space
With a 173.9-inch overall length, the Trailblazer slightly edges out the Encore GX with 171.4-inch dimensions. The Trailblazer also sits 1.6-inches taller, resulting in a higher vantage point from behind the wheel.
Total passenger volume is 98-cubic feet in the Trailblazer—a slight edge over the Encore GX’s 92-cubic feet of space. With the rear seats folded, the Trailblazer provides 54.4 cubic-feet of cargo space—besting the Encore GX’s 50.2 cubic-feet of cargo volume.
Both vehicles provide seating for five passengers, but rear passenger comfort is where the Trailblazer provides a significant advantage. Second row legroom is a generous 39.4 inches—3.4 inches more than the Encore GX.
Trailblazer vs Encore GX Powertrain Options
Both models offer the same exact engine choices. The standard option is a turbocharged 1.2L four-cylinder engine rated at 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The second is a larger 1.3L unit yielding a more powerful 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. While these figures may not sound overly impressive, both compact crossovers weigh just over 3300 pounds—meaning you don’t need a big engine to deliver respectable performance and acceleration times.
Both vehicles deliver exceptional fuel economy ratings, making them an ideal choice for individuals and small families who need an efficient SUV for frequent commuting. The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer provides up to 29-mpg city and 33-mpg highway, while the 2021 Encore GX yields up to 30-mpg city and 32-mpg highway.
Trailblazer vs Encore GX Technology
For their respective price points, both vehicles really punch above their weight in terms of cutting-edge interior technology. The Trailblazer and Encore GX both offer an available 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Wireless Apple CarPlay, Wireless Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and wireless charging pads.
A seven-speaker Bose premium audio system is available on both models that provides rich, concert-like sound—the perfect compliment to wirelessly stream Spotify, Pandora and other music sources from your smartphone.
In the Encore GX, an available head-up display and high-definition 360-degree camera system is also available as an extra cost option—two options not present in the Trailblazer.
Trailblazer vs Encore GX Pricing
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer is certainly the more budget friendly choice with its $19,995 starting MSRP after destination and delivery. The base model 2021 Encore GX starts at $25,195 in comparison.
In sportier and more upscale ACTIV and RS trims, the Trailblazer starts at $26,495 in FWD and $27,995 in AWD configurations. In top-spec Essence trim, the Encore GX starts at $30,090 in FWD and $31,595 in AWD.
