More Than Just a Subcompact SUV: The Evolution of the Chevy Trax

Less than ten years ago, a pint-sized Trax entered the market, charming a crowd won over by its toy-like size and bubbly characteristics. At the time, the subcompact SUV market was gaining popularity, and the Trax was a welcome addition. With the 2024 Chevy Trax for sale on the horizon, it is interesting to take a look back to the first 2015 model to see how the Trax has changed with time and if the original model still holds up.

The Trax has seen nine model years, not ten since the Trax went awol for the 2023 model year, and during those nine years, the SUV saw few changes. In 2017, it received a slight exterior refresh; a few options were added over the years, and some were taken away. The Trax even dropped a trim, ending 2022 with only two options. Thankfully, that was not the end for the Trax, with its re-emergence occurring for the 2024 model year and bringing with it even more trim options and an exciting new look. Before we get to the latest and greatest, it is important to pay tribute to the vehicle that started it all.

The Trax’s Debut in 2015

Outside, the Trax manages to set itself apart from rivals with a more dynamic styling, which is why the Trax is still just as charming today. Offering an affordable option for those looking in the used car market, this pint-sized ute is a stand-out choice. Despite its pocket-sized dimensions, the Trax reveals a surprisingly spacious interior with seating for five. A folding rear seat opens cargo space with a 60/40-split feature, but don’t plan on helping anyone move. You might be able to assist in a few errands, though, with the fold-flat front passenger seat. This feature allows for the transportation of long items, increasing cargo flexibility.

Without the rear seat folded you can expect a little over 18 cu.ft. of storage, and with the rear seat folded, that number is bumped to right above 48. Although these numbers are similar or even greater than rivals at the time, the way the Trax utilizes storage makes it a standout model. With 15 interior compartments for storage, the Trax was a segment leader at the time. With so many places to stash items away, the Trax could feel less cluttered and offer convenience not found with its competitors.

Powered by an EcoTec 1.4-liter turbo, the 2015 Trax produces 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. Nothing too impressive here, but enough to get you to wherever you need to go. A six-speed transmission and standard front-wheel drive complete the slightly underwhelming performance aspect, with optional all-wheel drive making the Trax more intriguing. Even though there is nothing to brag about under the hood, the Trax is compact enough that it easily maneuvers tight turns and narrow roads with ease, resulting in a rather fun ride.

Specifically designed with an optimized turning radius and low planted stance, the Trax is pretty fun to whip around the city or navigate backroads. A specialized suspension helps keep the vehicle on the ground while also dampening outside noise. You will be able to find the Trax in three trim options, offering features like Wi-Fi hotspot capability and a rearview camera system. The top two trims are equipped with some surprisingly luxurious features, considering their initial sticker price. Heated seats, leatherette-trimmed upholstery, and a seven-speaker Bose set-up make the Trax a pretty sweet ride.

The Triumphant Return of the Chevy Trax

After a year-long walkabout, the Chevy Trax returns for the 2024 model year with a new sense of self. Long gone are the pixie-like features that made the Trax a vehicle to be passed by drivers, and in its place is a more grown-up SUV ready to lead the charge. Now available in five trims, rather than the original three (then two), the Trax can be customized even more than before.

At first glance, it shows a much stronger stance and chiseled design, doing away with cute and bubbly. Each trim offers a unique facade, ranging from different grille inserts to exterior trim details. These variations allow the different trims to project unique personalities, distinguishing them from each other. At the same time, all trims have many things in common, like sharing the same new dimensions that stretch and widen the SUV for better handling, greater stability, and more room. The wheelbase of the Trax has jumped from 100.6 inches to 106 inches, playing a major role in its aggressive new stance.

A ten-inch stretch also helps draw the Trax out of the once tiny but cute category, allowing it to compete more evenly matched with other, roomier SUVs. This is further helped by the several-inch increase in both width and height, allowing for close to 12% more cargo capacity and improved occupant space. The 12% comes in the form of inches behind the first and second rows, doubling as extra legroom for second-row guests.

Standard technology has changed in the last decade, so it should come as no surprise that the Trax is equipped with better gadgets for entertainment, safety, and convenience. The 7-inch touchscreen is now an 8-inch on some trims or an even more impressive 11-inch on higher-end trims. It makes sense that the Trax would be equipped with a larger screen now that its size has increased; after all, a 7-inch might look a bit dwarfed in comparison to the larger dimensions of the all-new Trax.

Several years into the Trax run, features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added but have since been upgraded to wireless versions for greater useability. The 2024 model also boasts wireless phone charging, focusing on clearing up the cabin of the Trax to provide more room and less clutter. Remote keyless entry and available push-button start follow the same theme of simplicity. Wi-Fi hotspot capability is still standard, a feature that has been available since the beginning.

Despite the larger dimensions of the Trax, the engine is still a bit on the sluggish side. The EcoTec is behind the power but is now a 1.2-liter turbo, producing nearly identical horsepower at 137 hp vs the original 138 hp. This version does increase torque a bit, though, pumping out an expected 162 lb-ft of torque compared to the original 148 lb-ft. Nothing to write home about, but any extra oomph is welcome.

Probably the most impressive additions for the Trax come in the form of safety. A whole suite of standard safety tech, known as Chevy Safety Assist, can now be enjoyed, including features that weren’t even optional on the 2015 Trax. All trims come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam auto high beams, and a Following Distance Indicator. A Rear Vision Camera is also standard on all trims, but this is actually a feature that carries over from the original model.

Check Out the Chevy Trax Today

With nearly ten years in between, the Trax from the past and the Trax from today look like two completely different vehicles. Granted, more space is almost always a good thing, but it is unfortunate that the Trax has gone so far from its original roots of winsome, bubbliness. Its petite agility was not only appealing; it was a feature that made it great for city driving.

However, we can’t deny the appeal of an SUV with more space, and understanding that aggressive styling is the current trend, it makes sense that the Trax would see such a makeover. Sometimes, we all need to try out a new look to see what works best; perhaps the Trax was always meant to be buff. Thankfully, though, the diversity of the car market means you can go old school with the original Trax or show off a bit in the new and sleek 2024 Chevy Trax. Whatever model has piqued your interest, you can find it in our extensive online inventory here at Online.cars, and best of all, you can explore them from the comfort of your home. Check out our inventory today and find the perfect Chevy Trax you’ve had your eye on.