The Chevrolet Tracker should return
Ford has promised a Bronco to the public and with each passing day, we get closer to the highly anticipated reveal. Chevy has recently brought back the Blazer which has had mixed reviews. Some say it is not a real Blazer while those defending the new crossover say it fits just fine in a popular segment. Chevy currently has no hardcore off-road SUV/crossover. Yes, there is the new Z71 Tahoe that will sure give other SUVs, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a run for their money. However, the current Blazer, Equinox, and upcoming Trailblazer have no business taking the beaten path.
The Chevrolet Geo Tracker was produced for the 90s and early 2000s. Though labeled as a light truck due to its off-road capabilities, it was considered by most to be a fairly small crossover. The Geo Tracker ZR2 eventually came to light in 2001 but was really just an appearance package because of the all-season tires and ZR2 badges.
Chevy should make a strong attempt to bring a boxy and capable off-road vehicle to the market. It does not have to be under the name Tracker, but it would be ideal. Many fans would like to see a Bronco competitor that features a short wheelbase, two doors, 33″ (or bigger) all-terrain tires, front and rear lockers, sway bar disconnect, 12″+ of ground clearance in the front, and (at the very least) the 5.3 engine. However, it would be smart to potentially implement hybrid technology into an already powerful engine for more capability off-road. The Toyota RAV4 hybrid, for example, has proven to do much better off-road than its outgoing gasser. A pure electric off-roader would also be interesting as well.
Born and raised in Connecticut, Donovan Webb can be reached at 1.516-531-4021. He is currently attending American International College.