A little over a month ago, I made the jump from my 2014 Honda Accord to a 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV, and let me just say, it has been a big (and very good) change.

I’ve always driven a sedan, so stepping into a small SUV felt like a major upgrade. After driving it through a full Iowa winter month, I can confidently say this was the perfect move for me.

Let’s start with my absolute favorite features: heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start.

I have never owned a vehicle with any of these before. Being able to start my Trailblazer from my phone before I leave the house has been a game-changer during these freezing Iowa mornings. Walking out to a warm car, heated seats on, and a steering wheel already toasty is something I don’t think I’ll ever be able to live without again.

Coming from a Honda Accord, I didn’t want something massive. The Trailblazer feels like the perfect in-between. It sits higher than a sedan, which I love, but it’s still compact enough to park easily anywhere in Des Moines.

It truly feels like the right size for my lifestyle right now, roomy without being overwhelming.

Since I’ve only lived in Des Moines for about a year and a half, I still rely on Apple Maps pretty heavily. Having Apple CarPlay displayed directly on the infotainment screen instead of looking down at my phone has made driving so much easier and safer.

Another bonus? I can actually take phone calls now without people saying, “I can’t hear you!” The sound quality through CarPlay is crystal clear.

This is my first vehicle with AWD, and I immediately noticed the difference on winter roads. Snow and slick conditions feel much more manageable, and I feel more in control while driving.

After being rear-ended on the interstate and totaling my Accord, I definitely developed some anxiety behind the wheel. The safety features in the Trailblazer have helped ease that fear significantly. The added driver-assist technology gives me peace of mind I didn’t realize I needed.

The camera system is incredible. Parking feels effortless, and because the Trailblazer is such a manageable size, I never feel stressed squeezing into tight spots.

The trunk is surprisingly spacious. I even keep a small organizing tote in the back, and there’s still plenty of room. Inside the cabin, there are so many smart storage compartments that I genuinely feel like everything has its place.

Another pleasant surprise? The gas mileage. It’s efficient and noticeably cheaper to fill up than my Accord was. That’s always a win.

I knew I wanted something sporty, and the ACTIV trim delivers. It has a bold, athletic look that stands out without being over-the-top. It feels practical and fun at the same time, exactly what I was looking for in my next vehicle.

After just over a month, I can honestly say I’m so happy with my decision. The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV has made winter driving more comfortable, everyday commuting easier, and driving in general more enjoyable again.

If you’re thinking about making the switch from a sedan to a small SUV, this might be your perfect step up, too.