2026 Chevrolet Trax
Starting MSRP
$21,495
Body Style
SUV / Crossover
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Seating
5 passengers
Overview
The Trax is Chevrolet's entry-level play, and at $21,700 it's one of the cheapest new vehicles you can buy in America that doesn't feel cheap. The 11-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and spacious rear seat are genuinely impressive at this price point. Edmunds calls it one of the best values in the SUV market, and we agree.
The catch is capability. FWD only means no all-wheel drive at any trim level, which is a meaningful limitation if you live somewhere with real winters. The 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo produces 137 horsepower — enough for city driving and highway merging, not enough for anything resembling fun. And the lack of rear air vents and dual-zone climate control makes summer drives with passengers less comfortable than they should be.
For buyers on a strict budget who need basic, reliable transportation with modern tech, the Trax delivers. For anyone else, spend $3,000 more on the Trailblazer and get AWD.
Key Highlights
- Starts at $21,700 — one of the cheapest new vehicles in America
- 11-inch infotainment display standard
- FWD only — no AWD available
Powertrain Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2L Turbo I3 | 137 hp | 162 lb-ft | Gasoline | 32 |
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds
Specifications
Starting MSRP
$21,495
Top Trim MSRP
$25,400
Body Style
SUV / Crossover
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Seating
5 passengers
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- The value proposition is hard to argue with at this price
- Surprisingly spacious interior for a subcompact
- Modern tech features that cost extra in pricier competitors
✗ Cons
- FWD only — no AWD at any price, which limits cold-climate appeal
- Three-cylinder turbo has adequate power at best
- Climate system lacks rear vents and dual-zone control