Chevrolet India has already spoken of their intent to launch the Trailbalzer SUV in the country for some time now. And judging by the number of times the SUV has been caught testing in different states of India, it seems like GM is leaving no stones unturned to make this seven-seater bullet-proof, or, rather, India-proof.
These images come courtesy Motoroids reader and Twitter users @felixjose1982 and @vistadreamz and it shows the Trailblazer with heavy fabrics draped all around to discourage shutter happy roadgoers. Not that it matters much though; we know what we need to know about this SUV.
Globally, the Trailbalzer comes with a choice of two powertrain options – a 2.5-litre 4-pot diesel motor which cranks out an OK 163 bhp at 3600 rpm and 380 Nm of twist at 2000 rpm, and a Duramax 2.8-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine producing 200 bhp at the same 3600 rpm while torque at 2000 rpm is rated at 500 Nm. We reckon our market to get the 2.5-litre unit, although there’s not a squeak from GM on that front.
Measuring in at 4.87 metres in length, 1.9-metres in width and with a wheelbase of 2.85 metres, the Trailblazer is constructed with a traditional ladder frame instead of a monocoque construction. That ought to endow it with better off-roading capabilities than others of its ilk, a fact attested to by its wading depth of 800mm.
It’s pretty advanced underneath too, this big SUV, with independent suspension on all four corners and a host of electronic safety nannies including ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. The interior will be roomy too, with its three-row layout with flexible seating allowing for fold-flat rear seats.
We reckon GM India might possibly bring the Trailblazer into the country via the CKD route, thus keeping its price competitive. Either way, the Trailblazer will have to go up against the Toyota Fortuner and the upcoming Ford Endeavour when it lands onto our shores, so that is something to look forward to.