In 2024, the Chevrolet Trax is, surprisingly, being classified as a full-size car by some rental agencies. This might sound strange, especially if you remember the older, smaller Trax models. My local Hertz agent pointed out this unexpected fact, citing the second-generation Trax’s generous interior volume and legroom, comparable to larger sedans. Considering its front-wheel-drive configuration, this puts Chevy’s most affordable SUV in a size category once reserved for cars like the Impala. This new 2024 Trax is a world apart from its predecessor, and that’s definitely a good thing.
The dramatic transformation of the Trax for the 2024 model year is undeniable. Across the US, particularly outside major cities, the longer, lower, and significantly better-looking second-generation Trax is clearly resonating with buyers. Needing a reliable vehicle for a long road trip to a friend’s coastal home, the revamped Trax seemed like the perfect candidate for a thorough test.
As someone with extensive experience driving budget-friendly GM vehicles, both as a driver and passenger, I felt uniquely qualified to assess the new Trax. My personal streak of GM ownership began in 2008, a testament to the often-overlooked virtues of Chevrolet’s more affordable offerings. These vehicles typically offer low purchase prices (especially used), affordable maintenance, dependable powertrains, comfortable suspensions, adequate power and fuel economy, and crucially, ample front legroom. These were once the qualities that drew crowds to Chevrolet showrooms.
Settling into the Trax LT for a 930-mile eastbound journey, the drab light grey metallic paint was the only initial disappointment. Stepping inside, the interior was surprisingly impressive for a vehicle starting at a U.S. MSRP of $22,300 (the base LS trim starts even lower at an enticing $20,400). The two-tone dash and door panels with varying textures, faux leather seats with cloth inserts, a large 11-inch touchscreen with a digital gauge cluster, and stylish jet nozzle air vents with blue accents all contribute to a premium feel that belies its budget-friendly price tag. However, first impressions can be deceiving. Would this positive initial feeling hold up after a week of real-world driving? Cracks in this initial positive impression soon began to appear.
Interior Comfort and Design: A Mixed Bag
The elimination of the traditional handbrake has, in my opinion, negatively impacted interior ergonomics in many modern cars. The Trax is no exception. The tall and wide center console noticeably encroaches on hip room, especially for those with a larger build. For drivers who prefer a rearward and low seating position, like myself, accessing the shifter can also be slightly hindered. Buckling up became a minor ordeal, with my elbow repeatedly hitting the console. While the gear shifter is surrounded by glossy piano black trim, which quickly attracts dust but initially looks upscale, the console itself is constructed from undeniably cheap, hard plastic. This budget-conscious material extends to the upper door panels. While acknowledging the Trax’s position in the Chevy lineup below the Trailblazer necessitates cost-cutting, certain aspects, like a side-hinged console lid for easier access and softer door armrests, seem like easily addressable improvements. Speaking of armrests, the door armrests are exceptionally hard, bordering on uncomfortable.
Features and Technology: Surprisingly Well-Equipped
Despite some cost-saving measures in material choices, the Trax LT trim is far from basic in terms of features. It comes standard with a respectable suite of equipment, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, blind spot monitoring, an HD backup camera with rear cross-traffic alert, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Single-zone climate control with air conditioning is also included. Notably, there’s even a physical volume knob for the audio system, although its high placement requires reaching around the steering wheel and wiper stalk to use it.
Space and Practicality: Room Where It Counts
The Trax truly shines when it comes to interior space. Even at 6’4″, I found myself able to fully extend my legs with the driver’s seat pushed all the way back without touching the pedals. With the driver’s seat set for my comfort, rear passengers still enjoyed ample legroom. The rear floor is flat, further enhancing passenger comfort. While rear amenities are basic, limited to device charging ports and lacking a center armrest or map pockets, the backseat legroom is genuinely impressive for this vehicle class. Cargo space behind the rear seats is also generous, easily accommodating luggage for a longer trip.
Performance and Fuel Economy: Punchy and Efficient
Throughout the road trip, the diminutive 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine consistently surprised me with its performance. While not a powerhouse off the line, it provides enough torque to chirp the tires if you’re aggressive with the throttle. At highway speeds, the six-speed automatic transmission is responsive, readily downshifting with minimal throttle input, improving passing power. The Trax is rated at 28 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. My predominantly highway driving yielded 32 mpg, matching the highway rating and aligning with its subcompact crossover competitors. However, it’s worth noting that this is still less fuel-efficient than the older Chevrolet Cruze, which this vehicle effectively replaces in Chevy’s lineup. One can’t help but wonder what kind of fuel economy the previous-generation Cruze’s 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine would have achieved in the Trax.
Ride and Handling: Familiar GM Comfort
Driving the Trax evoked a sense of familiarity, reminiscent of previous GM vehicles. The suspension tuning felt distinctly “standard GM.” Despite a higher ground clearance of 7.3 inches, body roll in corners was well-controlled (though not sports car-like, of course). The suspension effectively absorbed bumps, providing a ride quality that felt a step above what you might expect in this price range. No rattles or vibrations were detected, although road noise was noticeable, partly attributable to the ICE tires equipped despite warm weather conditions. The steering, thankfully, avoids the overly sensitive on-center dead zone that plagued the Cruze, requiring fewer constant corrections at highway speeds. Overall, the ride prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, which is appropriate for its intended purpose.
Value and Competition: Undercutting the Rivals
The Trax convincingly delivers on Chevrolet’s promise of offering a well-equipped vehicle at an affordable price. It also boasts a more appealing design and a more substantial presence than many of its competitors. In terms of interior space, the Trax offers more rear legroom and cargo volume than front-wheel-drive rivals like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue. Remarkably, the base Trax is only slightly more expensive than the Venue and even cheaper than the Kicks. The Trax also holds a power advantage, with its 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque outperforming both the Venue (121 hp, 113 lb-ft) and Kicks (122 hp, 114 lb-ft). Furthermore, the Trax is physically larger, significantly outstretching both the Kicks and Venue in overall length and even surpassing its Trailblazer stablemate in size. The long, flat hood also provides a commanding view from the driver’s seat, enhancing the feeling of driving a larger vehicle.
Conclusion: A Surprising Standout in the Budget SUV Segment
Could I personally live with a Chevy Trax? Yes, absolutely. With proper winter tires, it would be a capable all-season vehicle in most climates. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax represents a significant step forward for GM’s budget-friendly offerings. It’s a spacious, well-equipped, and stylish subcompact SUV that offers exceptional value for money. Unless long-term reliability issues emerge, the Trax is poised to become a strong contender in the competitive subcompact SUV segment, potentially challenging established rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek. While questions may remain about GM’s broader vehicle strategy, the 2024 Trax demonstrates that Chevrolet still understands its core customer base and can deliver compelling, affordable vehicles.
