The automotive landscape in 2024 is certainly different, and the Chevrolet Trax exemplifies this shift. What was once considered a subcompact is now being classified as a full-size car by some rental agencies, highlighting the growth and evolution of vehicle sizes. This might sound surprising, especially if you remember the first-generation Trax, but the redesigned 2024 model is a different beast altogether.
The transformation of the Chevy Trax is significant. The older model was often criticized for being small and somewhat underwhelming. However, the 2024 Trax has emerged as a longer, wider, and more attractive vehicle that’s clearly resonating with buyers, especially outside major city centers. With a week off and a road trip planned, the 2024 Chevy Trax seemed like the perfect vehicle to put to the test and see if the positive buzz surrounding it was justified.
As someone with extensive experience with General Motors vehicles, both as a driver and passenger, I approached this review with a familiar perspective. GM’s budget-friendly offerings have often provided reliable and practical transportation, characterized by affordability, decent performance, and spacious interiors. The question was, would the new Trax live up to this legacy and offer something truly compelling in the crowded subcompact SUV market?
Settling into the LT trim of the 2024 Trax for a lengthy road trip, the first impressions were surprisingly positive. Despite the rather plain light grey metallic paint, the interior presented a level of sophistication unexpected for a vehicle in this price range, with a U.S. MSRP starting at a very attractive $20,400 for the base LS model. The two-tone dash, textured surfaces, faux leather seats with cloth inserts, and the prominent 11-inch touchscreen with a digital gauge cluster create a modern and inviting cabin. However, initial impressions can be deceiving. The real test would be how these features held up over time and daily use.
Interior Comfort and Features: A Step Up?
Digging deeper into the interior, some compromises became apparent. The wide center console, while contributing to a more substantial feel, does encroach on hip room, especially for larger occupants. The placement of the electronic shifter, surrounded by piano black plastic, looks stylish but is prone to collecting dust and fingerprints. Furthermore, the console and upper door plastics are undeniably hard and budget-oriented. While understandable in a cost-conscious vehicle, some areas, like the armrests, could benefit from softer materials for improved comfort during longer drives.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2024 Trax LT is far from a stripped-down model. It comes equipped with a generous list 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 wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Single-zone climate control and a physical volume knob are also welcome additions. For the price, the level of equipment is impressive.
Spaciousness and Practicality: Room Where it Counts
One of the standout features of the 2024 Chevy Trax is its spaciousness. Even for a taller driver, legroom is abundant, and rear-seat passengers benefit from a flat floor and ample legroom for the class. While rear amenities are basic, with no center armrest or map pockets, there are device charging ports available. Cargo space is also generous, easily accommodating luggage and more, making it a practical choice for road trips or everyday errands.
Engine Performance and Fuel Efficiency: How Does it Drive?
Under the hood, the 2024 Trax is powered by a small 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. While the displacement might seem diminutive, the engine performs surprisingly well. Off-the-line acceleration is adequate, and the six-speed automatic transmission is responsive, readily downshifting to provide power when needed for highway driving and passing. Fuel economy is also commendable, with the test drive yielding 32 mpg on a highway-heavy route, matching the EPA highway rating and comparable to other subcompact crossovers. While the previous generation’s 1.4-liter turbo four might be missed by some, the current engine is a capable and efficient choice.
Ride Comfort and Handling: Familiar GM Feel
The driving experience of the 2024 Trax is characterized by a familiar “Standard GM” feel. The suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. Cornering is stable and predictable, although not particularly engaging. While it’s not designed for aggressive driving, the Trax provides a composed and comfortable ride for everyday driving and long journeys. Road noise is present, partly due to the all-season tires, but overall refinement is acceptable for its class.
Value and Competition: Trax vs. Kicks, Venue, and Trailblazer
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax truly shines when considering its value proposition. It undercuts competitors like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue in base price while offering more rear legroom and cargo space. Furthermore, the Trax boasts a more powerful engine than both the Kicks and Venue, making it a more compelling option in terms of performance and practicality. Even when compared to its own stablemate, the Trailblazer, the Trax offers a larger footprint and represents a significant value, especially for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped SUV.
Final Verdict: Should You Consider the 2024 Chevy Trax?
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax is a significant step forward from its predecessor and establishes itself as a strong contender in the budget SUV segment. It delivers a surprising level of spaciousness, a decent array of features, and acceptable performance at a highly competitive price point. While some cost-cutting measures are evident in interior materials, the overall package is compelling. For buyers prioritizing value, space, and fuel efficiency in a subcompact SUV, the 2024 Chevy Trax is definitely worth considering. Its success in the market indicates that Chevrolet has tapped into a winning formula, offering a vehicle that is both practical and appealing to a broad range of consumers. The Trax demonstrates that GM still understands how to deliver value and appeal to its core customer base, pointing towards a potentially brighter future for the brand.
