In an automotive landscape rapidly evolving, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax emerges as a surprising contender, challenging conventional perceptions of size and value in the subcompact SUV segment. My recent encounter with a Trax rental unexpectedly positioned this vehicle in a new light, prompting a deeper look into what this revamped model offers to drivers today.
The revelation came from a Hertz agent, who classified the 2024 Trax as a “full-size car.” This initially perplexing statement piqued my curiosity. Was this merely a matter of subjective self-identification, or was there tangible data backing this assertion? Comparing the interior volume and legroom of the second-generation Trax to larger sedans on the lot, the agent’s classification started to make sense. The front-wheel-drive layout further contributed to maximizing interior space, effectively placing Chevrolet’s most affordable crossover in a size category traditionally reserved for vehicles like the Impala of yesteryear.
This is a far cry from the first-generation Trax. The older model, launched in 2013, was significantly smaller and less refined. The 2024 Trax represents a complete transformation, addressing the shortcomings of its predecessor and evolving into a vehicle that resonates with budget-conscious buyers and returning Chevrolet customers alike. Its redesigned, longer, lower, and wider profile is undeniably more appealing, and its growing presence on roads across the US, particularly outside major urban centers, speaks volumes about its increasing popularity. This prompted me to spend a week thoroughly evaluating the 2024 Chevy Trax, putting it to the test on a lengthy cross-country journey.
Having spent a significant portion of my life behind the wheel of General Motors vehicles, both as a driver and a passenger, I felt uniquely positioned to assess the new Trax. My personal history with GM cars stretches back to childhood, and my uninterrupted streak of GM vehicle ownership began in 2008. While some might label this brand loyalty as conservative or even old-fashioned, the reality is that Chevrolet’s entry-level offerings have consistently proven to be practical and reliable choices. Their hallmarks include affordability, reasonable maintenance costs, dependable powertrains, comfortable suspensions, and ample front legroom. These qualities have historically attracted a broad consumer base seeking value and functionality.
Settling into the Trax LT for a 930-mile eastward journey, the drab light grey metallic paint did little to excite. However, the interior immediately impressed. For a vehicle starting at a U.S. MSRP of just $22,300 (with the base LS trim even more attractively priced at $20,400), the cabin presented a surprisingly upscale ambiance. The two-tone dash and door panels, featuring varying textures and faux leather seating with cloth inserts, contributed to a sense of refinement. The broad 11-inch touchscreen, coupled with a digital gauge cluster and jet nozzle air vents accented in blue, created a modern and inviting environment. Yet, initial impressions can be deceiving. The true test would be how these elements held up over a week of daily use. Regrettably, a few shortcomings became apparent rather quickly.
The elimination of a traditional handbrake, a trend across many modern vehicles, continues to present ergonomic challenges. The Trax features a tall and wide center console that, while contributing to the interior’s contemporary aesthetic, encroaches on hip room, particularly for those with a larger build. For drivers who prefer a rearward and low seating position, like myself, accessing the shifter can be slightly cumbersome. During my drive, my elbow repeatedly bumped against the console while trying to buckle my seatbelt, a minor but persistent annoyance. The shifter surround, finished in a dust-attracting piano black plastic, attempts to project an air of sophistication, but the console itself is constructed from noticeably cheap, pebbled plastic, a material echoed on the upper door panels. While acknowledging the Trax’s budget-friendly positioning, simple improvements like a side-hinged console lid for easier access and softer armrest materials would significantly enhance the user experience.
Indeed, the door armrests are exceptionally hard, bordering on uncomfortable. Cost-cutting measures are understandable in a vehicle positioned below the Trailblazer in Chevrolet’s lineup. However, these are readily addressable issues, especially considering the extensive feature set included in the Trax LT trim. While base models offer a more basic equipment list, the volume-selling LT trim comes generously equipped with features like 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 and even a physical volume knob for the audio system are also standard. The latter, however, is positioned rather high on the dash, requiring a reach around the steering wheel and wiper stalk to operate.
The most compelling aspect of the 2024 Trax is its spaciousness. Despite my height of 6’4″, I found myself able to fully extend my legs without reaching the pedals, even with the driver’s seat in its rearmost position. Remarkably, even with the driver’s seat adjusted for my comfort, rear-seat legroom remained ample. Backseat passengers benefit from a flat floor and generous legroom for the class, although amenities are basic, limited to device charging ports and lacking features like a center armrest or map pockets. The cargo area behind the rear seats proved surprisingly capacious, easily accommodating luggage and larger items.
As the journey progressed and highway speeds increased, the diminutive 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine defied expectations. While not a performance powerhouse off the line, it delivers adequate acceleration and can even chirp the tires with aggressive throttle input. At cruising speeds, the six-speed automatic transmission demonstrates a willingness to downshift promptly with minimal throttle input, enhancing responsiveness for passing and merging. Fuel economy figures are respectable, with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. My highway-heavy trip yielded 32 mpg, aligning with its subcompact crossover competitors, although falling short of the fuel efficiency achieved by the previous-generation Chevrolet Cruze, a vehicle the Trax arguably targets as a replacement in the market. One can’t help but wonder what fuel economy the older 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder from the Cruze could have achieved in this application.
The driving experience in the Trax evoked a sense of familiarity, particularly for someone accustomed to GM vehicles. Memories of my 2018 Cruze frequently surfaced during the drive. The door switches and handles, for instance, bore a striking resemblance to those in the Cruze, suggesting shared components within the GM parts bin. However, a notable improvement over the Cruze is the steering. My primary complaint with the Cruze was its overly sensitive steering with a minimal on-center dead zone, requiring constant微 corrections at highway speeds. The Trax exhibits no such issue, offering more stable and relaxed highway driving.
The overall ride quality felt distinctly “Standard GM.” While the Trax boasts a generous 7.3 inches of ground clearance, cornering remained surprisingly flat, albeit not to the level of a performance SUV. The suspension effectively absorbed bumps and road imperfections with a composure befitting a more expensive vehicle, and the cabin remained free of rattles or vibrations, despite noticeable road noise, partly attributable to the all-season tires fitted despite warm temperatures. The suspension tuning and increased ground clearance appear to be the main differentiators in ride quality compared to the Cruze. The Trax is not designed for aggressive cornering, so its handling characteristics are perfectly adequate for its intended purpose.
Does the 2024 Trax deliver on Chevrolet’s promise of providing well-equipped vehicles at an accessible price point? Undoubtedly. Furthermore, it achieves this while presenting a more stylish and substantial appearance than many of its competitors. The Trax offers superior rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity compared to front-wheel-drive rivals like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue, despite a comparable base price. In fact, the Trax starts just slightly above the Venue and undercuts the Kicks. Moreover, the Trax outshines both the Venue and Kicks in terms of power output.
With 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, the Trax surpasses the Venue (121 hp, 113 lb-ft) and Kicks (122 hp, 114 lb-ft) in performance, while also boasting larger exterior dimensions. The Trax is significantly longer than both competitors, offering a substantial 9.5 inches more length than the Kicks and a remarkable 19.5 inches more than the Venue. The Trax’s hood is also notably long and flat, providing a commanding view from the driver’s seat, a feature appreciated by those who prefer a more substantial driving feel.
Could I personally live with a 2024 Chevy Trax? Certainly. Equipped with winter tires, it would function as a capable all-season vehicle in most climates. Addressing the hard armrests with aftermarket padding would further enhance comfort. The question remains: will the Trax continue its ascent in the subcompact SUV sales charts, challenging established competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek? The answer likely hinges on long-term reliability. Unless significant reliability issues emerge, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax appears poised to become a dominant force in its segment.
While the broader direction of GM’s overall vehicle lineup may be debated, the Trax demonstrates that the company retains a strong understanding of its core customer base. Perhaps this renewed focus on value and practicality, exemplified by the Trax, can guide GM toward a successful future path.
