Chevrolet Adding V8 Engine Option to TrailBlazer EXT

Extending Success That Made TrailBlazer a Midsize SUV Leader at Half Year

Chevrolet is strengthening its successful TrailBlazer midsize sport utility vehicle lineup with an optional V8 engine for TrailBlazer EXT in 2003.

All-aluminum V8 Engine An all-aluminum, Vortec 5300 V8 engine will be available on the TrailBlazer EXT in the fall of this year. The engine generates 290 horsepower and 330 ft.-lb. of torque, providing extra towing and hauling capability.

"Offering a V8 engine for the TrailBlazer EXT extends the appeal of the TrailBlazer midsize SUV family," said Russ Clark, TrailBlazer Marketing Director. "TrailBlazer has already become an industry leader in the midsize SUV segment of the market."

Sales Strides TrailBlazer recorded 113,136 sales for 2002 through June to place second in the medium sport utility vehicle segment for the first half of the year.

Standard Engine TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT will continue to offer the Vortec 4200 inline six-cylinder engine as standard equipment. It is rated at 275 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque for 2003.

Third Row Adult Seats Production of the TrailBlazer EXT began in February. The seven-passenger EXT features a third row seat that can easily accommodate two, 6' 2" passengers, with more than 22 cubic feet of space behind the seat for cargo or luggage.

Versatility is also a TrailBlazer EXT strength. The model has a 65/35 split second seat that folds and flips forward (on both sides) and full-width rear side doors for easy access. The third row seats have been optimized for unparalleled comfort, and all seven seats have three-point, lap-shoulder seat belts. The TrailBlazer EXT also has 100.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third row seats folded flat. That's more space than its major competitors.

Cargo Shelf TrailBlazer EXT also provides a cargo shelf with three positions behind the third seat. The shelf is easily accessible when the rear hatch is opened. Grocery bags can be hung from the shelf's hooks when the shelf is set in a vertical position. The first horizontal position is for a flat load floor, and the second horizontal position can be used to conceal items beneath the shelf.

Standard Equipment The standard equipment on all TrailBlazer EXT models, in addition to the standard equipment on all TrailBlazers, includes a third seat, so the vehicle can seat seven adults comfortably with room for cargo; LT trim; second seat climate vents and controls; power rear quarter windows; and 17-inch wheels and tires.

Two Option Packages TrailBlazer EXT also has two option packages. The LT Leather Package includes premium leather interior, eight-way power driver and passenger seats, driver information center, automatic climate control, rear seat radio and heating/ventilation/air conditioning controls and leather steering wheel with controls. The LT Leather Plus Package includes the LT Leather Package, plus memory driver's seat, memory outside rear-view mirror, turn signals on the outside rear view mirrors, RainSense wipers and body-color door handles.

DVD Player and Options Individual options for TrailBlazer EXT models include a DVD player for rear-seat passengers, AM/FM radio with six-CD changer, sunroof, running boards, shield package (4x4 model only), Bose premium sound system, heated front seats, traction assist (2WD only) and locking differential.