After going on sale in 2015, the Chevrolet Trax has quickly become one of the bow-tie brand's most popular models. The subcompact crossover shares a platform with the also hot-selling Buick Encore. The Trax's 2017 refresh brought a redesigned interior and exterior design cues inspired by the Malibu. Under the hood, however, the 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder has remained in place since the beginning. It's decently powerful with 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque on hand, but falls short of the new Trailblazer and its optional 155 hp 1.3-liter turbo.

According to GM Authority, the 2021 ChevyTrax will drop the current 1.4-liter turbo in favor of a new and improved version with the same displacement.

This new engine, codenamed LE2, is not only newer but also more powerful with a total of 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of twist. This isn't the first time we've seen Chevy use this engine; it previously powered the now-discontinued Cruze where it was equipped with an automatic start/stop system. Sources indicate the 2021 Trax will not have this feature but we're still waiting for official details from Chevy.

Given the Trax's age and the arrival of the newer and far better-looking Trailblazer, it's kind of surprising to see the new engine investment. Many have wondered why Chevy even bothers to sell both crossovers due to perceived internal competition.

The reason for doing so boils down to market research that indicated the subcompact crossover segment is currently splitting into two separate groups: budget-focused buyers and those willing to go upmarket. The Trax is aimed at the former group with a starting price of $21,300. Chevy believes selling both gives it an advantage over rivals because it can appeal to a greater number of customers.

While the Trax is aimed at luring buyers away from the likes of the Ford EcoSport and Nissan Kicks, the Trailblazer's competitors include the Jeep Renegade and Toyota CH-R.