Trailblazer Engines, MPG, CVT vs 9-Speed and AWD
Engines and AWD
Trailblazer Engines, MPG, CVT vs 9-Speed and AWD
Which engine and transmission come on which Trailblazer, and what each gets for mpg.
- 155 hp1.3L turbo
- 31 mpg1.3L FWD comb.
- +$2,000AWD on LS/LT
Home › Chevrolet Trailblazer Guide › Engines, mpg and AWD · Last updated October 31, 2026
Short answer: The 1.2L turbo (137 hp) is FWD-only on LS and LT with a CVT. The 1.3L turbo (155 hp, 174 lb-ft) uses a CVT with FWD and a 9-speed automatic with AWD, and is standard on every new 2027. AWD adds $2,000 ($1,600 on RS); ACTIV and Z71 are AWD-only.
Prices are MSRP before destination. 2027 Trailblazer Limited prices are from GM order data; new 2027 prices are from Chevrolet's preproduction announcement (Oct 2026). Confirm final pricing and destination on the window sticker.
| Engine / drive | Transmission | Available on | EPA mpg (city/hwy/comb) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2L turbo FWD, 137 hp | CVT | LS, LT | 30/31/30 |
| 1.3L turbo FWD, 155 hp | CVT | LS, LT (opt), RS | 29/33/31 |
| 1.3L turbo AWD, 155 hp | 9-speed automatic | LS, LT, RS, ACTIV | 26/29/27 |
GM 2027 Trailblazer (Limited) order guide; 2026 EPA ratings (same powertrains). New 2027 mpg not yet published.
FWD or AWD around Barron
- AWD for rural roads, hills, gravel driveways and early shifts before the plows. You also get the 9-speed instead of the CVT.
- FWD 1.3L for the best mpg (31 combined) on plowed highways and in town — with winter tires.
- Skip the 1.2L if you can: less power, and the 1.3L FWD gets better combined mpg.
Cold-weather notes
Add the K05 block heater on the order; small turbo engines appreciate it below zero. Expect lower winter mpg than EPA figures. Towing needs the 1.3L: Specs, cargo and towing.
Back to the Chevrolet Trailblazer buyer's guide.
Trailblazer questions
What's the difference between the Trailblazer 1.2L and 1.3L?
Both are turbo three-cylinders. The 1.2L makes 137 hp and 162 lb-ft, FWD only. The 1.3L makes 155 hp and 174 lb-ft and comes with FWD or AWD.
Which Trailblazer gets the best mpg?
The 1.3L FWD: EPA 29/33/31 mpg (2026 ratings).
Does the Trailblazer have a CVT?
FWD models use a CVT; AWD models on the Limited and 2026 use a 9-speed automatic.
How much is AWD on a Trailblazer?
$2,000 on LS and LT, $1,600 on RS; standard on ACTIV and Z71.
More Trailblazer guides
Sources: GM 2027 Trailblazer (Limited) order guide (codes, packages, colors, GVWR), EPA fueleconomy.gov, 2026 Trailblazer ratings, Chevrolet.com, Trailblazer and 2027 preproduction info (Oct 2026)
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