Is a Chevy Trax a Good Car? Reviews, Prices, and Performance

Is a Chevy Trax a Good Car? Reviews, Prices, and Performance

Is a Chevy Trax a good car? One thing our customers in Okotoks look for in a new or used vehicle is a category that works for them, with all the reliability, exciting features, and trust they put in the most famous Chevrolet models. For those researching subcompact SUVs, the new Chevrolet Trax is up to bat.

Let's get into its performance, interior comfort, safety features, and overall value to help you decide if the Trax fits your needs and leverages the power of Chevrolet vehicles for the ultimate in driver satisfaction, resale value, and creature comforts.

Key Indicators of A Subcompact SUV's Value

  • The Chevy Trax earned a spot on Car and Driver’s 2024 10Best Trucks and SUVs list.
  • Generous 1,532L of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Even with Cargo Volume to Seat 2, you'll still have 725L of cargo room to work with.
  • 137-hp turbocharged ECOTEC 1.2L Turbo engine, paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission.
  • While not all years' results are in, J.D. Power gave the vehicle 82/100 in 2020, proving a great Trax record.
  • Natural Resources Canada clocks the Trax at 8.3 L/100km in the city and 7.4 L/100km on highway.

Overview of Chevy Trax Models

When you think of a subcompact SUV that brings a blend of stylish design and practicality, the Chevy Trax probably comes to mind. This affordable entry into Chevrolet's well-regarded lineup has been making waves with its newly elongated body—most notably offering more room to stretch out than its predecessors.

For those considering a used Chevy Trax, you can expect great value through its reliable performance and practical features; it's been a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers for years and years.

Trim Decisions

Chevrolet Trax Avtiv models in reds and gold colours in forested Albertan countryside

Our sales advisors have a tough decision every time they show you a Chevrolet Trax; which trim suits you is a hugely personal thing, so it's best to get into a discussion about your lifestyle and what you hope to get out of it for life here in Okotoks! Having said that, you'll probably want the Activ.

With the new Chevrolet Trax earning a spot among Car and Driver’s 10Best Trucks and SUVs, it’s clear this isn’t just another run-of-the-mill vehicle. It’s Chevrolet engineering meeting customers' needs for a practical vehicle that lasts. Key to your decision to buy a Trax is what you need to get out of this model.

If a visit to Okotoks GM is on your mind, you should definitely consider the Trax when you come in— especially given the competitive trims like the Trax ACTIV and the sporty Trax 2RS. These vehicles punch about their weight and make enjoyable drives a natural part of its humble and practical appeal.

Trax Performance and Driving Experience

Performance isn’t just about horsepower and torque; it’s about the feeling you get as you glide around a bend or accelerate onto a highway. The Chevy Trax captures this balance well, offering a turbocharged engine that’s responsive and steering that feels intuitive and precise.

It’s a subcompact SUV that doesn’t just take you from point A to point B; the Trax makes any sort of journey a pleasurable ride. It depends where you're going and what you're doing, but for most commuting, errands, and recreation, it delivers in spades.

Acceleration and Handling

Imagine a car with all-wheel drive that also offers the benefits of front-wheel drive. No matter which Trax trim you end up with, performance you can feel good about comes standard across models. Our sales advisors are always pleased when potential buyers note how the Chevrolet Trax:

  • Handles corners with precision.
  • Navigates through traffic efficiently.
  • Features car-like handling and a tight turning circle.
  • Provides a balanced ride, ensuring stability on winding suburban roads.

In road tests, the Chevy Trax Activ accelerated from 0-60 mph in 9.4 seconds. This performance should do it for a subcompact SUV, offering a responsive and engaging driving experience that makes sense for town and city life.

The Chevy Trax is not just a good car; it's a technically sound choice for those seeking a reliable and agile vehicle. Can its relative power and agility give you what you're looking for? It all begins with a sporty feeling transmission and an engine that delivers more with less.

Engine and Transmission

Chevrolet Trax 2RS trim 6-speed transmission with impressive red accents

Our sales advisors always enjoy the impression the RS trim in particular makes with its sporty looking automatic gearstick. With an effective 6-speed your next test drive will show you practical performance without overdoing it—in style, all the while.

Under the hood of the new Chevy Trax, you’ll find it relies on a 137-hp turbocharged ECOTEC 1.2L Turbo engine, paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain combo helps the Trax dash through town streets and merge onto Highway 2 with surprising zest for a smaller engine.

Good on Gas

Fuel efficiency is a big decider for many of our customers interesting smaller SUVs and cars, and the Chevy Trax doesn’t disappoint. With a Natural Resources Canada estimate of 8.3 L/100km in the city and 7.4 L/100km on highway, it’s giving the competition in the SUV category quite a challenge; with 7.4 L/100km on the highway you get more joyrides and fewer pit stops.

Chevrolet Safety and Driver Assistance Features

For our customers in Okotoks and the surrounding area, passenger and drivers enjoying peace of mind is priority one. The Chevy Trax takes that promise seriously, with a suite of safety features that have come to define Chevrolet value. Some of these features include:

  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Forward collision alert
  • Backup camera (replacing “Rearview camera”)
  • Rear park assist

These features are not just about responding to dangers but about proactively preventing them. And with advanced options like adaptive cruise control, the Trax is not just keeping up with the times; it’s setting the pace.

Standard Safety Features

Safety is standard in the Chevy Trax, with the Chevy Safety Assist suite providing a foundation of security for every drive. The safety features our Chevrolet customers know especially well include:

  • Rearview camera
  • Electronic stability control system
  • Blind-spot warnings
  • Rear cross-traffic warnings

Despite its economical price, the Chevy Trax benefits from advanced technology found in more expensive Chevy models. Features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, demonstrate how the Trax leverages the innovations of its higher-end siblings.

Advanced Driver Assistance

For those who crave an extra layer of protection, the Chevy Trax delivers with advanced driver assistance features, including the driver confidence package. Lane-change alert and rear cross-traffic alert act as your inbuilt co-pilot, keeping an eye on your blind spots and what’s behind you.

And when you’re on long drives, adaptive cruise control is like having an intelligent assistant managing your speed and distance from the car ahead. For those long trips on Highway 2, this Trax feature is more than enough to keep you safe in monotonous driving conditions.

Crash-Test Ratings

The Chevy Trax doesn’t just talk the talk when it comes to safety; it walks the walk, as proven by its 5-star overall safety rating from the USA's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

This stellar performance in crash tests is a shows Chevy’s commitment to building vehicles that not only meet but exceed safety standards. Here in Canada, you can look for the National Safety Mark for added reassurance.

Interior Comfort and Technology on the Chevy Trax

Interior of Chevrolet Trax 2RS shot with spaciousness and infotainment screen visible.

Our sales advisors can show you the door, but you must open it. Check out the smooth interior of the Activ or LT trims with impressive driver comfort between the seat and the brake pedal.

Step into the Chevy Trax and you might just forget you’re in a subcompact SUV. The spacious and handsome interior provides a lot of comfort and connectivity, with technology that’s as current as Chevrolet offers in more expensive models.

From wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a Wi-Fi hotspot that keeps you connected on the go, the Trax leverages the best in comfort and entertainment you'll need for Alberta's highways and quick trips into the city.

Cabin Space and Seating

The cabin of the Chevy Trax is a space where friends and family can gather and enjoy the ride. There’s room to stretch out with ample passenger dimensions; the front especially is a haven for taller passengers, boasting ample front legroom of 41.90 in inches.

Climate Control and Additional Features

The Chevy Trax’s optional features like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power adjustable driver’s seat add a layer of comfort that might just make you want to take the long way home.

And if you’re navigating frosty mornings, the heated steering wheel is useful in southern Alberta's coldest months, to say the least!

Infotainment System

Chevrolet Trax closeup of infotainment screen taking up ample space in the centre console beside wheel.

An 11-inch screen is perhaps our favourite part of the new Trax medel, which reminds us of all the fanciest upgrades on Chevy trucks that we sell to much of Okotoks. This infotainment system integrates Apple Carplay and Android Auto for navigating reliably without putting entertainment on hold.

At the heart of the Trax’s interior lies an infotainment system that’s as easy to use as your favorite smartphone. With touchscreens that vary in size depending on the trim and features like an 11-inch diagonal display, this system is designed to keep you entertained, informed, and focused on the road.

This improvement in newer models offers an exciting new experience compared to the 8-inch screen of older releases. While we love the used Trax for its value, nothing quite compares with the sleek and dominants new screen that comes in the latest models.

Trax Cargo and Utility

The Chevy Trax is delivers on its promise of more spacious cargo area. Practicality is at the core of its design, making it a perfect companion for grocery runs, road trips, or hauling gear for your latest adventure.

Cargo Capacity

Chevrolet Trax back end with seats folded down

With a 60-40 split an an open space behind, a subcompact SUV does the job of a full-sized SUV for the price of a car. Come test drive a Trax in Okotoks and get a look at the cargo area for yourself!

When it comes to cargo capacity, the Chevy Trax doesn't skimp on space. According to Chevrolet Canada's OEM site, the Trax offers a generous 1,370 liters (48.4 cubic feet) of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Even with the rear seats up, you'll still have 530 liters (18.7 cubic feet) of cargo room to work with, making it perfect for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways.

Practicality for Daily Use

The Trax’s cargo floor is low, making it a breeze to load and unload even the heaviest of bags. The clever storage solutions, like the multi-functional box in the center console, mean that everything has its place, from your phone to your morning coffee.

Pricing and Value

Value is where the Chevy Trax truly shines. With a starting price that’s easy on the wallet, it makes the dream of owning a new car a reality for many. But it’s not just about the price tag; it’s about what you get for your money. And with the Trax, you’re getting a lot. First thing when you decide on a Trax model is auto financing, which helps you get credit on the spot and keeps your budget less impacted by a new car.

Price Range

The Chevy Trax offers an inviting starting MSRP, making it an affordable option compared to pricier market alternatives, proving that good things don’t always come with a hefty price tag. Getting into an SUV for less than $28,000 is rare, but if you buy from our dealership in Okotoks, you can enjoy this vehicle for a fair price around this figure (depending on trim you select).

Best Value Trim

Chevrolet Trax camping in the wild.

Our sales advisors are constantly impressed with the LT's offering compared to its price. Whether you're camping in the Rocky Mountains or just running to the store in Okotoks, you've got everything you need in a Chevrolet for less.

If you’re looking for the sweet spot between affordability and features, the LT trim of the Chevy Trax is effective. With its larger touchscreen, digital gauge cluster, and additional features, the LT trim offers a level of sophistication that without sacrificing an attractive price. But the Activ and 2RS trims are turning heads for a similar price! Ask our sales advisors for help matching the right features with your lifestyle.

Comparisons with Competitors

The Chevy Trax doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it’s part of the bustling subcompact SUV market, where competition can get pretty spirited. If non-GM vehicles in our used inventory are any clue, the Trax sports mechanical and technological updates designed to gain the top spot.

With rivals like the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, and Honda HR-V, the Trax has to work hard to stand out. But stand out it does, with a mix of affordability, practicality, and style that’s hard to beat. Now, let’s assess how the Trax fares when compared to its rivals. Within Chevrolet, the Equinox poses a threat too!

Competing Subcompact SUVs

While the Hyundai Kona sports a sporty design and the Honda HR-V offers commendable cargo flexibility, the Trax counters with an array of versions and a price point that’s hard to ignore. It’s a vehicle that knows its strengths and plays to them well.

Still, with seats folded down the Trax offers a generous 1,532L of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Even with Cargo Volume to Seat 2, you'll still have 725L of cargo room to work with, making it perfect for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways.

Pros and Cons

Every car has its pros and cons, and the Chevy Trax is no exception. On the plus side, its affordability and practical features make it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. For us and our customers in Okotoks, the pros outweigh the cons, as they should in a good car. Assuming you keep a good maintenance schedule with our mechanics, you're working with a solid car.

Pros

From reliability to resale value, the Trax also scores high on J.D. Power's comprehensive and customer-based vehicle review; from 2022 and all the way back to 2020, the vehicle sports an impressive 82/100. This car performs well right out of the gate, and serves any owner faithfully for years.

Cons

However, when it comes to engine power and luxury, the Trax may not quite match up to some of its more robust rivals. Acceleration has garnered some complaints; but it's not something that detracts from the vehicle, especially if you're in a suburban area in Okotoks, with quick trips to Calgary.

The Chevy Trax Ultimately Retains Value

The fact is, we value what the Trax has to offer in spades. If you bought an older model and maintained it well. We're interested in buying it or getting a trade-in. If you've got 2023 or older, or better yet, a 2021 or 2020 model of the Chevrolet Trax, please trade in or sell us your car!

Get Into the New Chevrolet Trax without Even Leaving Okotoks

Chevrolet Trax LT cruising in urban area on a long trip from Okotoks

Our sales advisors can get you into a trim of your choice, so you can enjoy trips to the city with a vehicle you'll love for years. Test drive an LT, 2RS, or Activ today!

The Chevy Trax is a compelling contender in the subcompact SUV arena, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and modern technology that makes it hard to overlook. With its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Trax presents a strong case for itself.

While it doesn't pack the same power into its frame as the reliable GMC Terrain, its larger cousin, it does move for a great price. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize without sacrificing comfort, the Trax checks many of the right boxes, making it a smart, value-based choice.

Ready to experience the Chevy Trax for yourself? Visit Okotoks GM to test drive Chevrolet's turbocharged compact SUV engine, explore the spacious interior, and check out the latest tech features firsthand!

Categories: Vehicle Reviews