2021 Chevy Trax Review

　　

2021 Chevrolet Trax Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　Extra-small SUVs typically offer high fuel economy, easy maneuverability, and a decent amount of cargo capacity. The 2021 Chevrolet Trax checks these boxes and is also easy to get into and see out of. But the Trax is hampered by some fairly uncomfortable seating, a noisy, harsh ride and a back seat that could induce claustrophobia.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax LS 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$135/mo  for Trax LS

　　Trax LS

　　LS 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $21,400 MSRPLS 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $22,900 MSRPLT 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $23,200 MSRPLT 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) (Most Popular) - $24,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$166/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　Much of the problem is that the Trax is a fairly old design, having come out for the 2015 model year. Since then, newer and fresher competitors have arrived, including the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-3 and Subaru Crosstrek. Furthermore, Chevrolet has just introduced the Trailblazer, which is also an extra-small SUV but considerably more modern. We recommend going with any of these picks before settling on the Trax.

　　

Which Trax does zzdcar recommend?

In LS trim, the Chevrolet Trax offers a decent amount of features for the money. And while the upper-level LT trim doesn't stand out for extra standard features, it is our pick since it holds the promise of options including the Driver Confidence and LT Convenience packages.

　　

2021 Chevrolet Trax models

The Chevrolet Trax is an extra-small SUV available in either an LS or LT trim level. They both come with a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower or, for Trax models built late in the 2021 model year, 155 hp. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional for either trim level. Highlight features include:

　　LS

　　Starts you off with:

　　7-inch infotainment touchscreen Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Wi-Fi hotspot capability Six-speaker sound system 60/40-split folding rear seatLT

　　Includes the LS's standard features and adds:

　　Cruise control Upgraded seating surfaces LED running lights Roof rails Heated outside mirrorsOptional features for the LT include:

　　Blind-spot monitoring Keyless ignition and entry Power-adjustable driver's seat Faux leather upholstery with heated front seats

　　

2021 Trax Highlights

Trim: LSLTLS

　　

Base MSRP	$21,400
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$135/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles