The automotive landscape is ever-evolving, and in 2024, the Chevrolet Trax emerges as a surprisingly significant player, defying traditional segment classifications. My recent encounter with a 2024 Chevy Trax rental, courtesy of Hertz, presented a bewildering yet intriguing declaration: this compact crossover is now considered a full-size car. This assertion, while initially perplexing, prompts a deeper dive into what makes the redesigned Trax stand out in a crowded market.
Hertz’s rationale, based on the Trax’s increased interior volume and legroom, draws an unexpected parallel to vehicles once deemed full-size, like the Chevrolet Impala. This marks a stark contrast to the previous generation Trax, a vehicle many would recall as decidedly subcompact. The 2024 model signals a clear shift, answering the call for a more substantial and appealing entry-level SUV from Chevrolet. It’s evident that the new Trax is resonating with buyers, particularly in regions beyond major urban centers, where its blend of affordability and practicality holds significant appeal. A week-long road trip seemed the perfect opportunity to thoroughly assess this revamped contender and understand its real-world capabilities.
As someone with extensive experience behind the wheel of General Motors vehicles, both past and present, I approached the 2024 Trax with a blend of familiarity and anticipation. Chevrolet’s budget-friendly offerings have often delivered a compelling mix of value, reliability, and everyday usability. The promise of low running costs, dependable powertrains, and ample front legroom has historically drawn consumers to the brand. Stepping into the Trax LT for a lengthy journey eastward, the initial impression was surprisingly upscale for its starting MSRP of $22,300 (the base LS trim even more enticing at $20,400).
Interior view of the 2024 Chevy Trax LT showcasing the dashboard, infotainment screen, and air vents.
The interior design immediately catches the eye with its two-tone finishes, varied textures, and faux leather seating accented with cloth inserts. The expansive 11-inch touchscreen, integrated digital gauge cluster, and stylish jet nozzle air vents with blue highlights contribute to a modern and sophisticated ambiance, especially unexpected in this price bracket. However, first impressions can be deceiving. A closer examination reveals some compromises in material quality, hinting at the vehicle’s budget-conscious nature.
One immediate drawback is the elimination of a traditional handbrake, replaced by an electronic parking brake. While modern, this design choice contributes to a wider center console that intrudes on hip room, particularly for larger occupants. Reaching for the shifter can also be slightly awkward for those who prefer a set-back driving position. The glossy black trim around the shifter, while aiming for elegance, quickly attracts dust and fingerprints. Similarly, the abundance of hard, pebbled plastic on the console and upper door panels underscores the cost-saving measures employed. While understandable in an entry-level vehicle, a few thoughtful improvements, such as a side-hinged console lid and softer armrest materials, would significantly enhance the user experience. The door armrests, in particular, are notably hard, a stark reminder of the need to meet a specific price point.
Despite these material compromises, the Trax LT trim is far from sparsely equipped. It boasts a generous array of standard features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, blind spot monitoring, a high-definition backup camera with rear cross-traffic alert, and seamless smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Single-zone climate control and air conditioning are also standard, further enhancing comfort. Notably, Chevrolet has retained a physical volume knob for the audio system, although its placement high on the dash requires a slight reach around the steering wheel and wiper stalk.
Close-up of the 2024 Chevy Trax LT’s dashboard highlighting the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.
The true strength of the 2024 Trax lies in its spaciousness. Even at 6’4″, I found myself with ample legroom, even with the driver’s seat fully extended. Rear seat passengers also benefit from generous legroom and a flat floor, a significant advantage in this vehicle class. While rear amenities are basic, limited to device charging ports and lacking features like a center armrest or map pockets, the sheer space is commendable. The cargo area also proves surprisingly accommodating, easily handling luggage and larger items, reinforcing its practicality for road trips and everyday use.
Under the hood, the Trax is powered by a diminutive 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. Despite its small displacement, the engine performs admirably, masking any perceived lack of power. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Trax delivers adequate acceleration and, more impressively, exhibits responsiveness at highway speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, readily downshifting to provide extra power when needed. Fuel economy is another strong point, with the Trax achieving 32 mpg on a highway-heavy route, matching its EPA highway rating and remaining competitive within the subcompact crossover segment. However, it’s worth pondering the fuel efficiency potential of the older 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine previously used in the Chevrolet Cruze in this application.
Front three-quarters view of the 2024 Chevy Trax LT showcasing its exterior styling and alloy wheels.
Driving the Trax evoked a sense of familiarity, particularly for those acquainted with recent General Motors vehicles. Certain interior elements, such as door switches and handles, share design cues with models like the Chevrolet Cruze. However, a notable improvement over the Cruze is the steering. The Trax eliminates the Cruze’s on-center dead zone, resulting in more stable and confident highway tracking, requiring fewer minor steering corrections.
The ride quality is tuned for comfort and everyday usability, aligning with typical GM standards. While possessing a higher ground clearance of 7.3 inches, the Trax handles corners with reasonable composure, exhibiting minimal body roll. It effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, delivering a ride that feels surprisingly refined for its price point. Road noise is present, partly attributable to the all-season tires, but overall, the driving experience is pleasant and well-suited for daily commutes and longer journeys. The suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, which is appropriate for its intended purpose.
In conclusion, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax successfully delivers on the promise of offering substantial features and space at an accessible price. Its striking new design, both inside and out, surpasses its competitors in visual appeal and perceived value. The Trax boasts superior rear seat legroom and cargo capacity compared to front-wheel-drive rivals like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue, while maintaining a competitive price point. It undercuts the Kicks in base price and slightly exceeds the Venue, but offers a more compelling package overall, especially in terms of power and size.
Rear three-quarters view of the 2024 Chevy Trax LT emphasizing its rear design and taillights.
With 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, the Trax outpowers both the Venue and Kicks, offering a more confident driving experience. Its larger exterior dimensions further solidify its position as a leader in the subcompact SUV segment, surpassing even its Chevrolet Trailblazer stablemate in overall length. The long, flat hood also contributes to a feeling of spaciousness and a commanding driving position.
The 2024 Chevy Trax presents a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a well-rounded and surprisingly spacious SUV. While some material choices reflect its entry-level positioning, the Trax excels in providing value, practicality, and a more refined driving experience than expected in its class. Its success in the market hinges on long-term reliability, but based on initial impressions and market reception, the 2024 Trax appears poised to be a significant contender in the competitive subcompact SUV segment, potentially challenging established rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek. Chevrolet seems to have rediscovered its formula for creating appealing and affordable vehicles with the Trax, offering a glimpse of a potentially brighter future for the brand.
