2024 Chevrolet Trax

Pros: Strong value; sharp looks; surprisingly practical; engaging and even enjoyable to drive; high fuel economy Cons: All-wheel drive unavailable; no engine upgrade; hard armrests The 2024 Chevrolet Trax is a game-changer for its brand, its subcompact SUV segment and for affordable cars in general. It is objectively well-executed, subjectively great to look at and, crucially, one heckuva deal that makes others in its segment seem overpriced. Even value stalwart Kia is looking down at the Trax from up the price ladder. And sure, there are fundamental reasons why it costs less, which we’ll get to, but on the whole, we think most buyers will be fine sacrificing in those areas to benefit from that sharp style and strong value.  For starters, the Trax has more passenger space than most subcompact SUVs. Full-size adults can sit comfortably front to back, and you don’t need to scoot the front passenger seat uncomfortably forward to accommodate a rear-facing child seat or kicking feet in a forward-facing one. Cargo space is above average, too. The cabin design is sporty and packed with the necessities, which draw attention away from the cheaper, hard plastics — this would be one of those sacrifices mentioned earlier. Another would be its small engine, which on paper, at least, delivers slow acceleration even in a segment consisting of leisurely sprinters. In practice, though, it doesn’t feel that slow thanks to punchy low-end power from the little turbo-three engine and quick reactions from the six-speed automatic. It’s further balanced by an overall dynamic package that is genuinely enjoyable to drive. Slow cars can be fun, and inexpensive cars can be good, period. The 2024 Chevy Trax satisfies both. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2024? We very nearly wrote “The Chevy Trax is an all-new model for 2024,” completely forgetting there actually was a Trax before. It’s just this one's much different. And more memorable. And better. What are the Trax interior and in-car technology like? Almost every surface in the Trax cabin is hard plastic or a too-hard rubbery surface. That’s bad news for elbows (please, more padding!), but it’s mostly disguised by a handsome design that shares plenty of visual DNA with the Camaro. It also helps keep the price low. Functionality is excellent, with a large phone-holding bin (available with wireless charging in the top three trim levels), generous cupholders split by another phone holder, a decent-sized armrest bin and a bonus bin to stash whatever. Door pockets are large, too, and can accommodate bottles. From a tech perspective, the Trax features a de-contented version of GM’s Android-based infotainment system. Available in either 8- or 11-inch sizes, it looks good and is easy to use even if it doesn’t do much more than tune the radio, display trip computer info, alter vehicle settings and operate standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android …
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