In a time in which the average new car transaction price is just over $49,000, our week with the $27,975 (price as tested) 2026 Chevrolet Trax 1LT left us convinced a lot of people are spending money than they need to be spending for a solid transportation. Seriously, Chevy’s subcompact SUV demonstrates competence can be had at an affordable price.
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax also delivers a remarkable blend of ride and handling, along with a generously proportioned cargo compartment.
Two years into its 2024 redesign, Trax continues to exude sophistication, usefulness and cost effectiveness. In other words, its handsome styling, quiet interior and surprising roominess make the Chevrolet a remarkable offering.
But wait, it gets even better. The Trax also delivers a remarkable blend of ride and handling, along with a generously proportioned cargo compartment. Simply put, the Chevrolet Trax represents an outstanding value proposition, even when it’s outfitted with some $3,000 worth of optional features.
Powertrains and Fuel Economy
And right about now, you’re probably thinking; “Okay, if it’s that good and the price is that low, there’s got to be a tradeoff somewhere.” And yes, there is a compromise under the hood. Powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, the Trax’s acceleration ain’t inciting no conflagrations. My Heuer Monaco chronicled the passage of nine seconds between the time I nailed the throttle, and the speedometer registered 60 mph.
Tthe Chevrolet does boast EPA estimates of 28 mpg in the city, 32 on the highway and 30 combined.
However, the Chevrolet does boast EPA estimates of 28 mpg in the city, 32 on the highway and 30 combined. I saw 31-mpg over the course of my week with the handsome little Chevy.
The powertrain uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, in a class in which you’re more likely to find a continuously variable one. Shifts were smooth and the droning you can experience when a CVT is mated to a small displacement engine was absent.
Interior Accommodations
Looking around the passenger compartment, I was pleasantly surprised by all of the features as well as the interior’s architecture. It would have been so easy for the design team to settle for a built-to-a-price look, but they didn’t.
Yes, there is plastic galore, but it’s finished nicely and padded in most of the places in which your body is likely to come into contact with it.
Powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, the Trax’s acceleration ain’t inciting no conflagrations.
Another pleasant surprise was the sense of spaciousness the two-tone Jet Black and blue passenger compartment radiated. This was enhance
d by the powered-operated sliding glass sunroof. Confirming this perception was not an illusion, legroom, head room and shoulder room were more than adequate at all four seating positions — even with two grownups occupying the split-folding rear bench. The Chevy boasted a generously proportioned cargo compartment too.
Comfort, Convenience & Safety Tech
Given the price point at which the Trax is offered, I was also pleasantly surprised to find a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, smart cruise control and wireless smartphone charging. Granted, those were all optional features, but the fact they can be had at a price point that is considerably lower than $30k is remarkable.
Given the price point at which the Trax is offered, I was also pleasantly surprised to find a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, smart cruise control and wireless smartphone charging.
Meanwhile, standard features included automatic climate control, remote start, active noise cancellation and an 11-inch touchscreen interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility was there too.
Standard driver assistance features included automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and following distance indication.
Driving Impressions
While I’ve already mentioned how well the Trax went down the road, handling, quietness and smoothness were far beyond what the asking price led me to anticipate. Don’t get me wrong, I ain’t saying the Chevy is on par with BMW in these regards. But it’s way better than I expected it to be — given what the Chevrolet cost.
What’s more, the Trax is commendably agile, easy to park and responds obediently to steering and braking inputs. Again, I’m not talking sports car levels of engagement. But the competence with which the Trax goes is respectable just the same.
Confirming this perception was not an illusion, legroom, head room and shoulder room were more than adequate at all four seating positions.
Yes, again, acceleration is on the leisurely side. But the Chevy pulls smoothly away from traffic signals and has no problem keeping up with traffic. The Trax is also capable of holding its own in highway situations — as long as you make sure there’s plenty of room before you try to pass another vehicle.
In Summary
Here perhaps it’s useful to note the Trax is so unlike traditional American cars because it wasn’t designed in America. Instead, GM Korea did the penning—in South Korea—with an eye toward Chevy’s Blazer for styling inspiration. Assembled in Korea too, Trax is—for all intents and purposes — an import.
But frankly, I ain’t as upset by that as some other people might be. Chevrolet’s subcompact SUV is practical, comfortable, refined and affordable. The only thing I’d change is the powerplant. Given another 50 or 60 horsepower, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax would be just about perfect for me. Pricing starts at $21,700.
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