In a car market constantly redefining categories, it might raise an eyebrow to hear the 2024 Chevrolet Trax being labeled as a full-size car. This surprising designation, as relayed by a Hertz rental agent, might seem more like automotive self-identification than reality. However, delving deeper into the dimensions and features of the second-generation Trax reveals a vehicle that challenges preconceived notions about size and class in the crossover segment. This review explores whether this re-imagined Chevy Trax truly lives up to its unexpected ‘full-size’ billing and what it offers to drivers in today’s market.
From Humble Beginnings to Unexpected Size – Trax Evolution
The original Chevrolet Trax, particularly the 2013 model, was a far cry from the current iteration. Where the older Trax was compact, almost cramped, the 2024 version has undergone a significant growth spurt. This transformation isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about fundamentally rethinking the Trax’s place in the Chevrolet lineup and the broader automotive landscape. The new Trax has embraced the principles of “longer, lower, and wider,” resulting in a vehicle that not only looks more substantial but also offers a genuinely more spacious and comfortable experience for both drivers and passengers. This growth is particularly noticeable when considering interior volume and legroom, areas where the 2024 Trax now rivals vehicles in higher size classes, much to the surprise of those familiar with its predecessor.
Stepping Inside the 2024 Trax LT: First Impressions Matter
Climbing into the LT trim of the 2024 Chevrolet Trax, the initial impression is one of unexpected sophistication, especially considering its attractive starting MSRP of just over $20,000 for the base LS model. The interior design incorporates a two-tone finish across the dash and doors, utilizing varying textures to add visual depth. Faux leather seating surfaces with cloth inserts provide a comfortable and upscale feel. Dominating the dashboard is a broad 11-inch touchscreen display seamlessly integrated with a digital gauge cluster, creating a modern and tech-forward cockpit. The jet nozzle air vents, accented with blue trim, add a touch of contemporary flair. While first impressions can be deceiving, the Trax immediately presents itself as a vehicle that punches above its weight class in terms of interior design and perceived quality.
Cabin Comfort and Practicality: Space for Days
One of the most significant and surprising aspects of the 2024 Chevrolet Trax is its generous interior space. Even taller drivers, around 6’4″, will find ample legroom in the front seats, capable of extending their legs without reaching the pedals when the seat is adjusted rearward. This spaciousness extends to the back, where rear passengers enjoy excellent legroom for a vehicle in this class. The flat floor in the rear further enhances passenger comfort, making it easier for three adults to sit side-by-side. While features like a center armrest and map pockets are omitted in the rear, practical additions such as device plug-ins are available. Beyond passenger space, the Trax boasts a surprisingly large cargo area, capable of accommodating luggage and gear for longer trips, adding to its practicality as a versatile crossover.
Ergonomics and Design Quirks: Not All Roses
Despite the generally positive first impressions and spaciousness, the interior of the 2024 Trax isn’t without its minor drawbacks. The elimination of a traditional handbrake has resulted in a wider center console, which, while visually appealing with its piano black trim around the shifter, can intrude into hip room, particularly for larger occupants. Access to the shifter can also be slightly hampered for those who prefer to sit further back. Furthermore, the console and upper door panels utilize hard, pebbled plastic, reflecting cost-saving measures. While the console lid is adequately padded, the door armrests are notably hard, impacting comfort on longer drives. These ergonomic and material choices, while understandable in a vehicle designed to be affordable, are points to consider for potential buyers prioritizing ultimate comfort and premium materials.
Driving the 2024 Trax: Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax is powered by a diminutive 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder engine. While the displacement might seem small, its performance is surprisingly adequate. Off the line, the Trax is capable of a quick start, even allowing for some tire squawk. At cruising speeds, the six-speed automatic transmission demonstrates a willingness to downshift responsively with minimal throttle input, enhancing the car’s perceived agility. Fuel economy is another strong point, with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. Real-world highway driving confirms these figures, with the test drive yielding 32 mpg, placing it competitively within the subcompact crossover segment. While some might wonder about the performance of the older 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder from the Cruze in this application, the current 1.2-liter engine effectively balances performance and fuel efficiency for the Trax’s intended purpose.
Ride and Handling: Familiar GM Feel
The driving experience of the 2024 Trax offers a sense of familiarity, particularly for those accustomed to General Motors vehicles. The suspension tuning evokes a “Standard GM” feel, providing a comfortable and predictable ride. Despite a higher ground clearance of 7.3 inches, body roll in corners is well-controlled, and bumps are absorbed with a level of composure that belies its price point. While road noise is present, partly attributable to the all-season tires, the overall ride quality is refined for its class, free from rattles or vibrations. The steering lacks any noticeable dead zone, addressing a common critique of older GM models like the Cruze, resulting in confident and stable highway driving. The Trax is clearly not designed for aggressive cornering, but for everyday driving and commuting, it provides a comfortable and competent experience.
Trax vs. the Competition: Standing Out in the Subcompact Crowd
When placed against key competitors in the subcompact crossover segment, such as the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax carves out a distinct space for itself. The Trax offers significantly more rear seat legroom and cargo volume than both the Kicks and Venue, despite being priced competitively. In base form, the Trax is only slightly more expensive than the Venue and even less expensive than the Kicks, making it a compelling value proposition. Furthermore, the Trax outshines both rivals in terms of power output, with its 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque eclipsing the Venue’s 121 hp/113 lb-ft and the Kicks’ 122 hp/114 lb-ft. The Trax’s larger exterior dimensions further contribute to its more substantial presence, outmeasuring even its own stablemate, the Trailblazer, in overall length. This size advantage, combined with its competitive pricing and features, positions the 2024 Chevrolet Trax as a strong contender in the crowded subcompact SUV market, offering a compelling blend of space, value, and style.
Conclusion: A Return to Form for Chevrolet?
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax represents a significant step forward for Chevrolet in the subcompact crossover segment. It successfully delivers on the traditional GM promise of offering a well-equipped vehicle at an accessible price point. With its surprisingly spacious interior, attractive styling, and competitive features, the Trax is poised to be a strong seller, potentially challenging established competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek. While questions about long-term reliability remain, the initial impression of the 2024 Trax is overwhelmingly positive. It demonstrates that Chevrolet is capable of producing compelling vehicles that resonate with value-conscious buyers, suggesting a potential return to form for the brand and offering a glimpse into a promising future direction.
