2026 Chevrolet Trax Buyer Guide

Editorial illustration.
Quick take
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax is a five-seat, front-wheel-drive small SUV built around value, everyday space, standard Chevy Safety Assist, and an available 11-inch touchscreen. Its sole powertrain is a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder with a six-speed automatic; it is not offered with all-wheel drive.
Best for
Urban and suburban buyers, first-time new-car shoppers, and small households seeking an affordable, practical SUV with smartphone integration and flexible cargo space rather than towing capability, AWD, or quick highway passing power.
At a glance
- Starting price: $21,700 (Chevrolet-listed starting price; options, incentives, taxes, fees, and local pricing can change the transaction price).
- Body style: Subcompact crossover SUV
- Powertrain: ECOTEC 1.2L turbocharged inline-three gasoline engine; six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive only.
- Output: 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque (GM-rated).
- Fuel economy or range: EPA: 28 city/31 highway/29 combined mpg for the regular-gasoline 1.2L/6-speed entry. EPA also lists a flexible-fuel entry at 28/32/30 mpg on regular gasoline and 21/24/22 mpg on E85; confirm the fuel label for the exact vehicle.
- Seating: 5 seats.
- Cargo and towing: Up to 54 cu. ft. of cargo space with the 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Chevrolet’s current 2026 model page does not publish a towing capacity; confirm with Chevrolet before buying for trailer use.
Trims
- LS
- 1RS
- LT
- 2RS
- ACTIV
Why it stands out
- Accessible $21,700 Chevrolet-listed starting price.
- Useful five-seat layout, 60/40 split rear seat, and up to 54 cu. ft. of cargo space.
- Standard Chevy Safety Assist, LED headlamps, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability.
- Five distinct trim choices, with an available 11-inch center touchscreen on selected trims.
What to consider
- Front-wheel drive is the only drivetrain; all-wheel drive is unavailable.
- The 137-hp turbo three is adequate for daily use but not performance-oriented, particularly for freeway merging and passing.
- EPA economy varies by listed regular-gasoline versus FFV/E85 configuration; use the exact vehicle’s Monroney label.
- No 2026 towing rating is published on Chevrolet’s current Trax model page.
Closest alternatives
- Honda HR-V
- Hyundai Kona
- Mazda CX-30
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Sources
Prices, ratings, incentives, and specifications can change. Verify the exact vehicle, window sticker, equipment, and transaction terms before purchase.