2023 Chevy Trax release date

Many thought the end had come for the Golden Bowtie’s entry-level crossover SUV, the Trax, after the Chevrolet Trailblazer arrived for the 2021 model year. But in a rather shocking and unconventional move, the Detroit-based automaker decided to continue the Trax for a second generation, which it revealed Wednesday.

Arriving as a 2024 model year, the new Trax brings a much-needed rework of Chevy’s bargain-basement crossover utility vehicle, featuring a fresh new exterior and interior greatly inspired by the larger midsize Blazer, a new platform, updated engines and more space thanks to larger dimensions. The redesign is welcomed as the outgoing model was feeling a bit dated and long in the tooth after nine years. 

Compact SUV Choices

Chevrolet’s decision to continue the Trax may seem a bit unconventional because many originally anticipated the Trailblazer to replace the Trax. Both however will be sold in dealerships side-by-side ultimately giving subcompact utility vehicle buyers multiple choices to choose from. 

Though both are subcompact SUVs, each offers distinct styling, dimensions and target customers. Offering the two may seem redundant, but the Trax’s newfound sleek styling and low-slung roofline will certainly attract those hunting for a small SUV with sportier road-going styling while the Trailblazer’s more upright shape and design attracts those favoring something more spacious and taller.

Because crossover SUVs are so darn popular, especially in the entry-level segment, automakers have found even greater success selling more than just one model in a segment. Both Hyundai and Kia began selling two subcompact SUVs and have benefited from their popularity: the Hyundai Kona, a subcompact SUV geared towards buyers with active lifestyles, and the Venue, aimed at those looking for a practical and efficient runabout. Hyundai’s sister company, Kia, also offers the Soul and the Seltos, for urban owners and those looking for more space and all-wheel drive.

5 Flavors of Trax

At launch, the Trax will come in five flavors: LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS and ACTIV. As expected, the amount of standard equipment and additional exterior and interior appointment options are dependent on trim in varying degrees. Note, however, that climbing up the trim ladder and throwing money at the options list doesn’t mean more performance in the form of larger engines. Like the outgoing model, the 2024 Trax only gets one engine, in this case a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder. At least the base LS comes decently equipped.

The standard equipment roster includes a rear backup camera, pedestrian detection and forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, headlights with automatic high-beam control and forward following distance assist, all of which makes up Chevy’s Safety Assist suite. 

A base Trax LS also gets an 8-inch infotainment screen with the usual range of connectivity options and smartphone integrations, LED headlights and even active noise cancellation. Optional features include radar-guided cruise control with lane change assist, blind-spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and rear park assist.

A New Trax Tone 

The Trax gets its mill from its sibling, an updated version of the Trailblazer’s turbocharged 1.2-liter inline-three-cylinder gas engine, good for a manufacturer-estimated 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Chevrolet reps didn’t have any performance figures on hand, but a zero-to-60 time is estimated to land in the 8- to 10-second range, the average acceleration time for a vehicle in this segment.

Gone is the old Opel-based Gamma II platform, which is no more after General Motors sold its ownership of the small German automaker to the PSA Group. That platform also served as the backbone for many other models in GM’s portfolio, such as the Buick Encore and even the tiny Chevrolet Spark.

In its place is GM’s latest and greatest VSS platform or “Vehicle Set Strategy,” the carmaker’s current set of modular platforms that will also underpin incoming models. More specifically, the Trax and Trailblazer share the same VSS-F chassis, which is specific to the subcompact models and promises to offer even better handling and more cargo space.

Giving the Trax a bit of an edge over much of the competition, specifically the front-wheel-drive-only Nissan Kicks, Venue, Toyota CH-R and Soul, is optional all-wheel drive. 

How Much Will the 2024 Chevy Trax Cost? When Will it be Available? 

Prices start at just $21,495 for the base LS, making the Trax an extraordinarily attractive entry-level subcompact SUV, while the top-of-the-line ACTIV stamps its invoice at $24,995. 

Chevy expects the new 2024 Trax to arrive at dealerships in spring 2023.

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