With 30 MPG combined, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer FWD, powered by its 1.2L three-cylinder engine, is a surprisingly efficient choice in the crowded subcompact SUV market. It won’t win any drag races, but that fuel economy makes a strong case for itself among city drivers and first-time car buyers who want low running costs more than high performance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Trailblazer 1.2L FWD gets 29 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. These numbers are close because of the continuously variable transmission’s (CVT) ability to keep the engine running efficiently regardless of where you are driving. Around town, the small engine is responsive enough, and the CVT avoids the rubber-band feeling found in some competitors. On the highway, the Trailblazer does well, maintaining reasonable fuel economy even at interstate speeds. The similar city and highway numbers show consistent efficiency, whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or cruising on the open road.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer 1.2L FWD is $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using current national average fuel prices. Spending will change depending on driving habits and local fuel costs, but the $1,450 estimate is a useful benchmark for comparing the Trailblazer’s running costs to others in its class. This affordability attracts budget-conscious shoppers who need a practical and versatile vehicle without spending too much.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Expect numbers close to the EPA figures if you drive smoothly at consistent speeds. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy loads will decrease fuel economy. However, careful drivers can achieve numbers near the official estimates. Monitoring your fuel consumption and adjusting your driving habits can help you get the most out of the Trailblazer’s efficiency.

How it compares

The Trailblazer’s fuel economy compares well to its key competitors in the subcompact SUV segment. The Kia Seltos, for example, gets 27 MPG combined in its base LX trim with front-wheel drive. The Nissan Kicks, a direct rival, gets a slightly better 31 MPG combined, but that comes with a less powerful engine and a more basic interior. The Hyundai Kona SE offers 30 MPG combined, matching the Trailblazer’s number. For buyers who want good fuel efficiency, comparing the TRAILBLAZER MPG across all years against these other strong contenders is important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy. The 1.2L engine doesn’t offer a ton of power, so there’s no need to accelerate quickly from every stoplight. Smooth acceleration lets the CVT operate efficiently, keeping the engine in its most fuel-efficient range.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The start/stop system, standard on some trims, helps by automatically shutting off the engine at stop lights.

Plan routes carefully. Avoiding stop-and-go traffic and choosing routes with fewer hills can improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient routes, even if they are slightly longer.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed with cruise control can help avoid unnecessary speed changes, which consume extra fuel. Setting a reasonable speed and letting the cruise control manage the throttle can lead to noticeable improvements in highway fuel economy. For all Chevrolet fuel economy data, the Trailblazer continues to impress.