Dressed in Ceramic Silver Metalure paint and powered by a 6.0 liter V8 that produces 345 horsepower and 380 lb ft of torque, the Chevy Trailblazer SS concept vehicle makes a modern performance statement, while acknowledging Chevy's midsize performance past.
Trailblazer SS joined concept versions of the Tahoe SS and Sillverado SS Regular Cab along with production versions of Silverado SS Extended Cab and SSR Roadster at the 2002 SEMA show to showcase interpretations of the new family of Chevrolet SS performance vehicles.
With a wheelbase of 113 inches and an overall length of 191.8 inches, the Chevy Trailblazer SS is comparable in dimension to another venerable member of the SS family, the 1967 Chevelle SS 396. In fact, with a wheelbase of 115 inches, and an overall length of 197 inches, the '67 Chevelle SS is actually over 5 inches longer than Chevrolet's midsize SUV of today.
"Midsize cars started the muscle car revolution in the sixties" said Kurt Ritter, Chevrolet General Manager. "Vehicles like the Chevelle SS 396 not only had plenty of power, but the room and comfort for everyday living. Because of that, midsize vehicles were seen as very personal -- not unlike the reasons customers have made the TrailBlazer such a success since its debut last year. In fact, customers are telling us how sporty TrailBlazer is to drive."
TrailBlazer's sporting characteristics are drawn from its robust and agile chassis. Hydroformed frame side rails provide the foundation for responsive suspension systems, consisting of double A-arms in the front and a sophisticated five-link rear suspension. TrailBlazer SS builds on that foundation to turn a sporty ride into a downright exhilarating experience. Progressive rate performance springs lower TrailBlazer SS by 2 inches, thereby enhancing cornering and giving the vehicle a more aggressive stance. Additional handling and appearance enhancements come from 20 inch Budnick aluminum wheels and Goodyear Eagle GT II tires. Behind the wheels, large four piston brake calipers clamp down on enlarged brake rotors.
As for its engine, a 345 horsepower V8 from a GM full-size pickup was transplanted intto the TrailBlazer SS -- another nod to early muscle cars that featured engines from larger vehicles. A heavy duty 4-speed automatic transmission backs the engine and a Corsa 2.5 inch diameter stainless steel performance exhaust system provides a muscle-car exhaust note.
The exterior appearance of Trailblazer SS is unique, thanks to new front and rear fascias, lower rocker panels, elimination of the roof rack, tinted crystal-look taillamps, and SS badging. The vehicles graphite leather interior says SS too with embroidered seats and floor mats, and SS specific instrument panel, Chevy bowtie leather wrapped steering wheel, and drilled aluminum sport pedals.
"Besides a terrific performer, whether accelerating or cornering, TrailBlazer SS is comfortable and fun to drive every day," said Ritter, "It's the philosophy we're building into every new Chevrolet SS model."
Although a concept vehicle, TrailBlazer SS provides unique interpretation of the family of Chevy SS production vehicles. The 2003 Silverado Extended Cab pickup is the FIRST production vehicle and Chevrolet will announce additional SS production models in the coming months and years.
VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS:
6.0 Liter Vortech V8 producing 345 horsepower and 380 lbs ft torque BASF Ceramic Silver Metalure exterior Graphite Leather Interior Corsa 2.5 inch stainless steel performance exhaust system Heavy Duty 4L80 E automatic transmission Two INch lowered suspension Budnik 20 X 9 inch polished aluminum wheels Goodyear 275/45/20 Eagle GT II tires
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