#Chevy trax 2019 review drivers#

Other small crossovers such as the Mazda CX-3 have shown that a humble crossover doesn’t have to feel its price.įront-wheel-drive Trax crossovers use simple rear drum brakes, but four-wheel disc brakes are included with all-wheel drive. Copious lean into corners from the simple torsion-beam rear axle prevents the Trax from feeling remotely fun on a curvy road. The Trax’s steering is fast and light, which works well around town but contributes to a nervous feel at higher speeds. Some fault lies with the Trax’s 6-speed automatic, which delivers slurred upshifts and and can be reluctant to slip down a cog or two. Even a relatively wide torque curve doesn’t help. It’s at suburban and highway speeds where this smallest Chevy feels especially out of breath. The turbo-4 is sluggish around town, but adequate for driving between stop lights. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive costs about $1,500 more. Under its hood, the Trax features a 1.4-liter turbo-4 rated at 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

The related Buick Encore is swankier inside and more powerful, but just as cramped. Its rear seat is a tight fit for adults and its interior is dressed in low-buck plastics.

#Chevy trax 2019 review drivers#

The Trax provides a good view out for drivers and more cargo utility than subcompact cars. Pint-size dimensions mean the Trax excels at urban driving, but its short wheelbase and budget suspension make it nervous on a curvy road or a wide-open highway. Despite its diminutive size, this engine makes 138 horsepower, plenty to pull the relatively light Trax through city traffic with its 6-speed automatic. All-wheel-drive versions earn just 30 mpg on the highway according to the EPA. Despite its little engine and lithe curb weight, the Trax isn’t as miserly as you might expect. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional, but the Trax is not a dirt road champion. A 1.4-liter turbo-4 pairs to a 6-speed automatic. The 2019 Trax is offered in LS, LT, and Premier trim levels.

The Trax makes a decent choice at or close to its $22,000 base price, but we’d shop the competition carefully before signing on the dotted line. The Trax comes up short in terms of refinement, styling, and safety. It scores for its low price, but that’s about it. Overall, we rate the 2019 Trax at 4.2 out of 10.

The 2019 Chevrolet Trax is a city-sized crossover SUV that makes up for its low thrill demeanor with budget-friendly pricing.