2024 Chevrolet Trax has an upscale feel at an entry-level price

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Chevrolet has an all-new small SUV in its line-up, and it’s calling it the Trax. But wait. Chevy already had a small SUV called the Trax. Well, the 2024 model is so different from the old — and bigger — that it could actually merit a new name. It has merited a new spot in Chevy’s line up, though. Despite being redesigned from the wheels up, the Chevrolet Trax now takes honours for being the most affordable Chevrolet model available (adieu, Spark), and that’s a good thing if you’re looking for something that’s more practical and comfortable than a tiny economy car, yet are on a budget.

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A complete redesign has given the Trax a Blazer-like front end; it looks sleek and sporty, rather than utilitarian and bland. It has grown substantially, with a wheelbase that is 145 mm longer, at 2,700 mm. It also measures 51 mm wider and 279 mm longer than before. That’s actually 124 mm longer than its Trailblazer stablemate, but it sits 110 mm lower and is less SUV-like, so drivers moving from sedans or hatchbacks won’t experience a drastic change in driving dynamics.

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There are five trims to choose from: the base LS (starting at $21,699), 1RS ($23,199), LT ($25,899), and the top-tier 2RS and Activ ($27,999). Wheels come in 17-, 18-, and 19-inch diameters depending on the model, and a power sunroof is available from the 1RS model up.

All models come with a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine that claims 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are down on the previous 1.4-litre turbo four that claimed 155 hp and 177 lb-ft, but not many drivers would need more for normal everyday use, since the engine certainly doesn’t feel down on power. It’s also better on gas in the city, at 8.3 L/100 km versus 9.7 L for the old one; highway mileage is about the same at 7.4 L/100 km. I saw an average of 7.8 on the trip computer during my test, with about 3/4 of my drive done on the highway, including the hilly north shore east of Quebec City.

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The interior is simple in layout yet driver-centric and contemporary in style. It’s roomy up front, though the front-seat cushions are a bit short for a six-footer like me. The Activ and 2RS I sampled have a new eight-inch instrument screen and 11-inch infotainment touchscreen. The instrument screen is configurable for different views through the steering-wheel controls, and each display is uncluttered and easy to read. 

The climate controls are thankfully not incorporated into the touchscreen, but are rather readily accessible knobs and buttons below it. The LT and 1RS models come with analog gauges incorporating a 3.5-inch driver-info display, and there’s an eight-inch central touchscreen. Wired and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity is standard across the models, as is Wi-Fi capability.

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Its larger exterior dimensions have added 76 mm more legroom for rear passengers. The rear seats are impressively roomy, even with the driver’s seat adjusted for my height, and there’s ample headroom in the back for full-sized adults. There’s 161 litres more cargo capacity behind the rear seats, and 195 litres more with the rear seat backs down (725/1,532L respectively). That’s more than its closest competitors, the Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Venue.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax has exceptionally good road manners, and that’s not even taking into account its price point. All models come standard with noise cancelling, which combines with a smooth and quiet engine to provide a very quiet ride. It also feels refined and solid on the road, soaking bumps without harshness and remaining level through turns — it might be Chevy’s least expensive vehicle, but it certainly doesn’t feel cheap. OK, its super-light steering lacks feel, and there’s no “sport” drive modes — or any drive modes for that matter — but some sacrifices had to be made to save money. And I’d rather see needless frills nixed to reduce cost rather skimping on suspension or cabin comfort.

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One omission that might be a deal breaker for some is the absence of an AWD model; keeping in line with the Kicks and Venue, the new Trax is only available as a front driver. However, one big plus, for me at least, is that it comes with a six-speed automatic rather than a fun-sapping CVT. The transmission’s performance is excellent; it shifts smoothly yet deliberately; its ratios are well-matched to the engine’s power delivery; it downshifts appropriately when needed.

The engine is torquey right off the line, and it doesn’t struggle to pull the Trax up to speed, doing so impressively even up steep hills despite its modest output. The smooth-shifting transmission certainly gets some credit for getting the most out of the engine. A start-stop function is standard, and it operates smoothly and almost seamlessly.

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The Trax is comfortable, fuel efficient and practical, and the two lower trims come with regular air conditioning and cruise control, heated front seats, USB and USB-C ports, and the necessary connectivity as standard — what else could you ask for? They also include Chevrolet Safety Assist as standard, and lane-change, rear cross-traffic and blind-spot alerts are optional. Rear park assist is also available.

While the 2024 Trax takes the bottom spot in Chevy’s line up, it’s near the top when it comes to value. If wireless charging, a digital dash, adaptive cruise or a heated steering wheel are must-haves, the LT, 2RS or Activ models will fill your needs. Otherwise, the base LS or the expected volume leader, the 1RS, should tick all of the boxes for you, as they did for me.

Check out the latest Chevrolet Trax model.