CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER SS EVOKES HERITAGE OF

[SilveradoSS.com]

CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER SS EVOKES HERITAGE OF MID-SIZE PERFORMANCE

 

Dressed in Ceramic Silver Metalure paint and powered by a Vortec 6000 6.0-liter V-8 producing 345 horsepower and 380 lbs.-ft. of torque, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS concept vehicle makes a modern performance statement, while acknowledging Chevy's performance past.

 

TrailBlazer SS joins concept versions of the Tahoe SS and Silverado SS (Regular Cab), along with production versions of Silverado Extended Cab SS and SSR roadster, at the 2002 Specialty Equipment Market Association (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 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS compares 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 396 was actually 5.2 inches longer than Chevrolet's mid-size SUV of today.

 

"Mid-size cars started the muscle car revolution in the '60s," said Chevrolet General Manager Kurt Ritter. "Vehicles like the Chevelle SS 396 not only had plenty of power, but the room and comfort for everyday living. Because of that, mid-size vehicles were seen as very personal - the same 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, enhancing cornering and giving the vehicle a more aggressive stance. Additional handling and appearance enhancements come from 20-inch Budnik aluminum wheels and Goodyear Eagle GT II tires. Behind the wheels, large four-piston brake calipers clamp down on the brake rotors.

 

As for its engine, a 345-horsepower small block V-8 from a GM full-size SUV was transplanted into the TrailBlazer SS - another nod to early muscle cars that featured engines from larger vehicles. A heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission backs the engine, and a Corsa 2.5-inch-diameter stainless steel performance exhaust system provides a muscle car-appropriate exhaust note.

 

The exterior appearance of TrailBlazer 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 vehicle's Graphite leather interior says "SS," too, with embroidered seats and floor mats, an SS-specific instrument panel, Chevy "bowtie" leather-wrapped steering wheel and drilled aluminum sport pedals.

 

"Besides being a terrific performer whether accelerating or cornering, TrailBlazer SS is comfortable and easy 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 a unique interpretation of the new family of Chevy SS production vehicles. The 2003 Silverado Extended Cab SS is the first production SS vehicle. Chevrolet will announce additional SS production models in the coming months and model years.

 

CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER SS VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS:

 

Vortec 6000 6.0-liter small block V-8 from GM full-size SUV producing 345 hp and 380 lbs.-ft. of torque

 

BASF Ceramic Silver Metalure exterior color

 

Graphite leather interior

 

Corsa 2.5-inch stainless steel exhaust system (rearward of catalyst system)

 

Heavy-duty 4L80-E automatic transmission

 

Two-inch lowered suspension with progressive rate springs

 

Four-piston brake calipers

 

Budnik 20 x 9-inch polished aluminum wheels

 

Goodyear 275/45/20 Eagle GT II tires

 

SS-logo floor mats

 

Embroidered seat headrests

 

SS-specific instrument panel

 

Chevy "bowtie" leather-wrapped steering wheel

 

Drilled aluminum sport pedals

 

Unique SS front and rear fascias and lower rocker covers

 

Body color outside mirrors with clear lenses

 

SS badging on door and tailgate

 

Roof cargo rack removed

 

Tinted crystal-look taillamps.