The last time we tested Chevrolet’s bite-sized Trax subcompact crossover was back in 2019. Since then, the 2024 second generation 2024 Trax has been completely redesigned, and what a car it is. Trax is a bit larger in size, more economical and one heckuva buy.
Rated as a subcompact, the 179-inch long (was 167 in 2019) Trax is a handsome subcompact with sleek, eye-grabbing styling. It’s one of those that says “how can you not like this car,” especially my test car that was painted a dazzling Cacti Green with slick LED headlights.
Trax is offered in five trim levels of base LS, 1RD, LT, 2RS and tested Activ. The base model is one of the few affordable crossovers on the market with its $21,495 base price nicely loaded.
The 2024 Trax is longer and wider and as such offers a spacious interior for a compact. And the interior is very stylish and one you’d find in a more expensive crossover. HVAC controls use buttons and knobs that are easy to view and use with selections displayable and changed on the 11-inch touchscreen that also serves, a rearview camera, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Wi-Fi Hotspot connectivity. Navigation is available via a cell phone connection.
Evotek heated front seats are soft and nicely bolstered. On the digital gauge cluster, it a single gauge for the speedometer and tachometer combined with the latter encircling the speedo. There’s also a phone charger at the base of the vertical stack that has receptacles for wired charging. To make the interior even more sporty, Chevy designers could have included a flat-bottom steering wheel for a racy look.
With a low 18-inch step-in into the cabin, back seat riders have a surprising amount of leg and head room. As there’s no transaxle hump, a flat floor allows for a middle rider with decent leg room provided it’s a youngster.
Back in the cargo area that has a low 29-inch lift-over for easy loading heavy gear, and with the rear seatbacks upright, there’s 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space that measures 34.5 inches deep, 38 wide and 26 high. Flip the rear seatbacks and cargo capacity increases to 54.1 cubic feet for 68 inches of cargo loading depth. Beneath the cargo floor is a space saver spare tire in a deep well where some small items can be stowed in front of it.
Trax gets it grunt from a small but mighty 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that couples to a 6-speed automatic transmission and generates 137-hp and 162 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 28 city, 32-higher mpg with auto start/stop engine technology. So powered, full-throttle acceleration from a standing stop is linear, but sufficient for easily passing 18-wheelers on interstates.
As for the ride, Trax’s suspension and short wheelbase provides a firm ride on bumpy roads but smooths out on improved roads and highways. And it’s a relatively quiet ride, even with the 3-banger.
Trax handled admirably in sharp turns and winding roads where it remained stable and planted. And with its compact size, it parked easily and was actually fun to drive. With a 7.3-inch ground clearance, Trax can negotiate modest snow depths and some mild off-roads.
With the Activ being the top-line model, it’s also the most expensive at a mere $23,900 base price. At this price, Trax was loaded with a long list of safety features including Chevy Safety Assist that includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist w/lane departure warning, following distance indicator, tire pressure monitoring, remote start and many more.
On the options side, Trax came with a sunroof ($795), Driver Confidence package ($795) that includes rear cross traffic alert, lane change alert w/side blind side alert, adaptive cruise control and rear park assist. With a delivery charge of $1,690, the bottom line reflected $25,590. A very affordable price for a content laden crossover that’s a head turner and exceptionally economical.
Trax comes with a 3 year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5/60K-mile powertrain warranty plus 24/7 roadside assistance coverage.