Trax

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
SUV
  • 2024 Chevy Trax starts at $21,495 for base LS trim
  • Available in LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and ACTIV trims
  • 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine rated at 137 horsepower

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax has arrived, and it sports one of the most radical styling changes we've ever seen on an entry-level vehicle. Those rental car proportions are gone, replaced by a baby Blazer design. And the best part is... it costs under $22,000!

We'd forgive our readers for forgetting that the Trax existed. In a crowded Chevy lineup that includes the similarly-sized Trailblazer and larger Equinox, most people were only reminded of the Trax when it was the last vehicle available at the rental lot. That's about to change.

Under the hood sits a tiny 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. It develops a meager 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, which is less than the 1.4-liter engine in the outgoing model. Chevy says this engine was used to help keep the Trax at an attractive price point. Power goes out to the front wheels only through a six-speed automatic transmission rather than the CVT used in the Trailblazer and Buick Encore GX.

Five trim levels are available, including LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and ACTIV. There are no performance differences between them, but each receives unique styling.

The 2RS (pictured in red) gets 19-inch wheels, a unique grill, and additional accents, while the ACTIVE (pictured in green) rides on 18-inch black wheels and features a monochromatic look. The LS gets 17-inch steel wheels as standard, while the LT's wheels are aluminum. If you're wondering, that new color is called Cacti Green, and it will likely appear on future Chevy models.

We love the new Blazer-inspired headlights, which give the Trax a more macho appearance than the previous model. The new Trax is four inches lower and four inches wider than the outgoing model, contributing to its metamorphic styling change. It's also 11 inches longer overall and six inches longer in the wheelbase, meaning Chevy has been able to squeeze three more inches in the back seat and 12% more space in the trunk.

Chevy says the Trax can accommodate 25 cubic feet behind the second row or 55 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Inside, Trax owners will be greeted by a standard eight-inch touchscreen on the base model, while all other trims include a an 11-inch unit combined with an eight-inch driver display. Most trims offer push-button start, automatic climate control, and wireless phone charging, and the Trax adds adaptive cruise control for the first time. Other available amenities include heated seats, a power-adjustable driver seat (ACTIV), remote start, sunroof, and rear USB ports.

Each trim level comes with a unique cabin, with the 2RS getting sporty red accents and the ACTIV using a bold yellow accent. This new Trax may be catered towards a budget audience, but Chevy didn't skimp on features. It punches well above its price point.

In terms of safety, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, auto high beams, and a follow distance indicator all come as standard.

In regards to pricing, the base LS model is a bargain starting at $21,495 (not including destination). That's over $2,000 cheaper than a Honda HR-V and around $1,000 cheaper than a Toyota Corolla Cross. The 1RS and LT both cost $23,395, with the former adding styling improvements and the latter getting more technology. Stepping up to the 2RS bundles the styling and tech together for $24,995, while the ACTIV offers a different flavor for the same price.

Chevy has priced the Trax well below the competition, making it a strong option in the entry-level crossover segment. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax goes on sale in the spring of 2023.