Don Johnson Auto Group – Is AWD on the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer the right choice for winter driving around Amery, WI?
Winter road conditions can be unpredictable, which is why many shoppers look closely at all-wheel drive when considering the Trailblazer. The 2026 model offers available AWD along with three drive modes, giving you tools to tailor traction and throttle response as conditions change. Combined with the ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine and up to 174 lb.-ft. of available max torque on select trims, the Trailblazer feels confident and composed when roads turn slick, rutted, or slushy.
Beyond traction, year-round usability matters. The standard 11-inch diagonal HD color touch-screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ compatibility lets you keep maps and weather one tap away, while Chevy Safety Assist adds supportive technologies such as Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam®. If you regularly park on snow-packed streets, the HD Rear Vision Camera helps you line up cleanly and avoid unseen obstacles behind you.
- Consider your routes: If you routinely drive unplowed rural roads, steep inclines, or shaded streets that ice over, AWD can provide added peace of mind.
- Match tires to the season: AWD is most effective with quality all-season or dedicated winter tires that fit your climate and driving habits.
- Choose the right trim: ACTIV and RS feature the ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine and styling aimed at distinct driving personalities — pick based on where and how you drive.
Trim differences also play a role in winter comfort and control. RS adds a heated, wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel for cold-morning commutes, while ACTIV brings off-road suspension tuning and a functional skid plate for rough, uneven surfaces. LT includes everyday conveniences like Keyless Open and Start and a Remote vehicle starter system, which can be helpful when you want to warm the cabin before heading out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need AWD if I mostly drive on plowed city streets?
AWD is helpful but not mandatory for well-maintained routes. If your regular drives are plowed quickly and you run quality all-season or winter tires, front-wheel drive may be sufficient. Choose AWD if you want the added confidence for occasional storms or weekend trips off the beaten path.
Which drive modes does Trailblazer offer, and when should I use them?
The Trailblazer provides three drive modes you can select based on conditions. Use your primary mode for routine driving, engage a traction-focused mode to help in low-grip scenarios, and select a performance-oriented mode when you want crisper response on dry roads. Try each mode on your test drive to feel the differences in throttle, steering, and traction tuning.
Will the safety features help on snow and ice?
Chevy Safety Assist features support awareness and can assist with braking or lane guidance, but they do not replace careful driving or proper tires. On slick surfaces, leave extra distance, brake early and smoothly, and let the Trailblazer’s assistance systems complement your skill and caution.
Which trims can I get with AWD?
AWD is available across the lineup, so you can choose the look and feature set you want — from LS and LT to ACTIV and RS — and add AWD based on your driving environment. ACTIV and RS pair AWD availability with the ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine and dual exhausts, blending capability with standout style.
If you’re weighing AWD for the Trailblazer, think about your routes, your driveway, and the gear you haul most often. Our team can help you evaluate the trade-offs and set up a test loop that includes hills, curves, and stop-and-go segments. When you’re ready to take a closer look, Don Johnson Auto Group — serving Amery, Spooner, and Minong — is prepared to walk you through trims, colors, and feature combinations that fit your life and your winter driving needs.
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