| Pros | Cons | What's New |
|---|---|---|
Very easy to maneuver around town | Noisy engine at high revs | Carryover model without any major changes |
Decent interior room for a compact crossover | Only a single-engine available | |
Great safety ratings | ||
Frugal fuel economy |
$21,800
price138 hp @ 4900 rpm
horsepower148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm
torque6-Speed Automatic
transmission1.4L 4cyl AWD 6A
engine-
basic warrantyThe Chevrolet Trax is GM’s smallest crossover offering owing to its 2-door configuration and compact body. This subcompact vehicle is an excellent choice for small families due to its compact interior packaging and a host of standard family-friendly features. With its compact size, the Trax can easily sneak in through tight traffic. Also, the Trax is one of Chevrolet’s most affordable options for budget-conscious families at its affordable price tag.
If you have a budget within $30,000, we recommend going for the top-draw LTZ trim. This trim really raises the characteristics of the Trax to an upmarket level by adding a bunch of sophisticated features like 18-inch alloy wheels, a 7-speaker Bose audio system, rear parking sensors, and a host of interior creature comforts. The price difference between the LT and LTZ trims is only marginal, so opting for the LTZ trim is surely going to turn a lot of heads.
The 2016 Trax is a mixture of both the Buick Encore and Chevy Sonic, offering a combination of some of the positive aspects of both its GM compatriots. The Trax battles it out against several capable rivals from its segment, including the likes of the Honda HR-V, the Mazda CX-3, the Jeep Renegade, and many more. Can the 2016 iteration of the Chevy Trax make it to the top of its customers’ wishlists? Let's find out.
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax is available in three different configurations, namely a standard LS trim, a mid-level LT trim, and the top-draw LTZ trim. All the trims are powered by the same powertrain option and include all-wheel-drive as an option. It falls in a price range that extends from $20,300 for its base variant and goes up to $25,230 for its top-rack variant. Chevrolet has provided a wide range of features across the three trims of the crossover, and for further details, check the table given below.
|
Trim |
LS |
LT |
LTZ |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP (FWD) |
$20,300 |
$22,645 |
$25,230 |
|
MSRP (AWD) |
$21,800 |
$24,145 |
$26,730 |
|
Key Features |
16-inch steel wheels |
Alloy wheels |
18-inch alloy wheels |
|
|
Automatic headlights |
Roof rails |
Rear parking sensors |
|
|
60/40-split-folding rear seat |
Rear privacy glass |
6-way power driver seat |
|
|
Rear cargo cover |
Remote engine start |
Auto-dimming rearview mirror |
|
|
Power accessories |
Heated outside mirrors |
Leatherette premium vinyl upholstery |
|
|
|
Satellite radio |
7-speaker Bose audio system |
We Recommend
If you have a budget within $30,000, we recommend going for the top-draw LTZ trim. This trim really raises the characteristics of the Trax to an upmarket level by adding a bunch of sophisticated features like 18-inch alloy wheels, a 7-speaker Bose audio system, rear parking sensors, and a host of interior creature comforts. The price difference between the LT and LTZ trims is only marginal, so opting for the LTZ trim is surely going to turn a lot of heads.
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax can go around the city for an economical MPG of 26. The highway MPG rises to a splendid 34. This equates to a decent combined MPG of 29. With its fuel tank capacity of 14 gallons, the Trax can shell out miles in the city and miles on the highway. While these are thrifty figures in their own sense, many other competitors top these figures.
|
Model |
2016 Chevrolet Trax |
2016 Mazda CX-3 |
2016 Honda HR-V |
2016 Jeep Renegade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG (city) |
26 |
29 |
25 |
24 |
|
MPG (Highway) |
34 |
35 |
34 |
31 |
|
MPG (Combined) |
29 |
31 |
28 |
27 |
|
Fuel Capacity |
14 gallons |
12.7 gallons |
13.2 gallons |
12.7 gallons |
|
Range (City/hwy) |
364/476 mi |
368.3/444.5 mi |
330/448.8 mi |
304.8/393.7 mi |
The Trax’s frugal fuel economy may please any fuel-conscious driver, however, when compared with the rivals, the Chevrolet Trax is a midpack contender in the fuel economy sector. The Trax manages to beat the Honda HR-V in terms of MPG figures. However, the Mazda CX-3 again leads the line here with its stellar MPG numbers and class-leading mileage.
The 2016 Chevy Trax settles for a friendly and straightforward interior design. This design language translates to the cabin and dashboard ergonomics as well. The dashboard features Chevy's twin cockpit configuration from its sibling, the Chevy Sonic. This brings forth a practical arrangement of buttons and gauges that are easy to handle. The materials used are mostly entry-level, covered in a sea of plastic with little soft-touch surfaces to relish. Chevy engineers implemented a nicer two-tone vinyl upholstery and console parts covered in patterned trim with the top-draw LTZ trim. This relieves some of the drabness of the base model.
The seats provide a lot of support and comfort in both the front and rear compartments. Horizontally, it is a different story though as 3 passengers may find themselves rubbing shoulders with each other in the rear. The Trax can seat five passengers at the most, although the seats aren’t ideal for long trips. The Trax does redeem itself with its plethora of small storage amenities, including 4 cup holders and numerous storage bins, cubbies, trays, upper and lower glove boxes, door bins, and vertical slots with rubber bottoms.
|
Model |
2016 Chevrolet Trax |
2016 Mazda CX-3 |
2016 Honda HR-V |
2016 Jeep Renegade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
39.6/54.1/40.8 |
38.4/53.5/41.7 |
39.5/56.8/41.2 |
41.1/55.9/41.2 |
|
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.8/52.8/35.7 |
37.2/50.4/35 |
38.3/54.5/39.3 |
40.5/55.1/35.1 |
|
Cargo Capacity (cu-ft) |
18.7 |
12.4 |
24.3 |
18.5 |
All crossovers in this segment feature a standard 5-seater capacity. In comparison, the interior dimensions of the Chevy Trax are on par with other crossovers, if not better in some cases. The Trax also offers you above-average cargo space behind its rear seats, although the Honda HR-V is the more versatile and commodious option. The front passenger seatback inside the Trax can also be folded if not in use, enabling you to carry large items like surfboards or even a desk. Major interior features include:
For infotainment purposes, Chevy equips a 7-inch touchscreen with the MyLink interface. This interface provides access to several apps like Pandora, Stitcher Internet radio, and BringGo navigation. The BringGo interface feels easier to operate than most other navigation systems, however, it is only compatible with a select few iPhones and Android phones.
The Mylink-powered screen relays a lot of information in an organized manner but can be frustrating to use because of some delayed touch inputs. Bluetooth audio streaming, GM's OnStar telematics, 4G Wifi, and Siri Eyes Free are also a part of the tech suite. The standard 6-speaker audio system is also a decent companion on those long drives. The tech suite includes:
The latest iteration of the Chevy Trax shares its underpinnings with another subcompact GM vehicle, the Buick Encore. The Buick implements a much more flamboyant exterior design, owing to its higher price tag. The Chevy Trax plays it safe with its exterior design, opting for a generic yet elegant design compared to other overtly-styled competitors in its segment. The simple square lines surrounding the exterior body maintain a sublime character. At the rear, the crossover feels narrower owing to some character lines that bookend the tailgate. Choose the bigger 16- or 18-inch alloy wheels on the LT and LTZ models for more bold aesthetics.
|
Model |
2016 Chevrolet Trax |
2016 Mazda CX-3 |
2016 Honda HR-V |
2016 Jeep Renegade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
2805 |
2809 |
2888 |
3044 |
|
Length (in.) |
167.2 |
168.3 |
169.1 |
166.6 |
|
Width (in.) |
69.9 |
69.6 |
69.8 |
74.2 |
|
Height (in.) |
65.2 |
60.7 |
63.2 |
66.5 |
|
Ground Clearance (in.) |
6.2 |
6.1 |
6.7 |
6.7 |
|
Wheelbase (in.) |
100.6 |
101.2 |
102.8 |
101.2 |
In comparison, the Chevy Trax is one of the widest and tallest cars in its segment. The Trax also has low ground clearance, confirming its credentials as a city cruiser. The Trax also has the shortest wheelbase compared to its rivals, standing at 100.6 inches. When comparing the curb weight, Jeep Renegade is the heaviest option in the competition. The major exterior elements include:
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax secured an assuring 5-star safety rating in the federal crash tests conducted by NHTSA. In the IIHS safety tests, the crossover again excelled with a ‘Good’ rating in its small-overlap frontal-offset, moderate-overlap frontal offset, side-impact, and roof-strength tests. Unfortunately, the Chevy Trax missed out on the IIHS Top Safety Pick award due to its headlights' poor quality. Standard safety features on the Trax include a tire pressure monitoring system, antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and a rearview camera. Major safety features available with the crossover include:
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax impresses with its spirited performance and smooth city cruising. The Inline-4 powertrain is potent enough to gallop through city roads, although the engine can stir up a disturbance at high revs. Despite that, the interior remains serene and carefree, with ample comfort inside for all 5 passengers. The decent fuel economy gives more onus to the cash-savvy audience to invest in the Trax. A well-rounded safety suite completes the overall package and establishes the Trax as an excellent family proposition.
Car Name | 0-60 MPH | Quarter Mile | Top Speed | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #6 | 9.2 sec | 17.1 sec | - | |||
2016 Fiat 500X Ranked #1 | 7.8 sec | 16.0 sec | 120 mph | |||
2016 Jeep Compass Ranked #2 | 8.3 sec | 16.6 sec | 104 mph | |||
2016 Jeep Renegade Ranked #3 | 8.6 sec | 16.5 sec | 112 mph | |||
2016 Mazda CX-3 Ranked #4 | 8.8 sec | 16.6 sec | - | |||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #5 | 9 sec | 17.1 sec | 117 mph |
Car Name | MPG City | MPG Highway | MPG Combined | Fuel Tank Capacity | Range (C/H) | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #2 | 26 mpg | 34 mpg | 29 mpg | 14 gal. | 364/476 mi. | |||
2016 Mazda CX-3 Ranked #1 | 29 mpg | 35 mpg | 31 mpg | 12.7 gal. | 368.3/444.5 mi. | |||
2016 Fiat 500X Ranked #3 | 22 mpg | 34 mpg | 28 mpg | 13.2 gal. | 317.5/431.8 mi. | |||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #3 | 25 mpg | 34 mpg | 28 mpg | 13.2 gal. | 330/448.8 mi. | |||
2016 Buick Encore Ranked #3 | 28 mpg | 33 mpg | 28 mpg | 14 gal. | 350/462 mi. | |||
2016 Jeep Renegade Ranked #4 | 22 mpg | 31 mpg | 27 mpg | 12.7 gal. | 304.8/393.7 mi. | Jeep USA |
Car Name | Length | Width | Height | Ground Clearance | Wheelbase | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #8 | 167.2 in. | 69.9 in. | 65.2 in. | 6.2 in. | 100.6 in. | |||
2016 Ford Escape Ranked #1 | 178.1 in. | 72.4 in. | 66.3 in. | 7.9 in. | 105.9 in. | |||
2016 Subaru Crosstrek Ranked #2 | 175.2 in. | 70.1 in. | 63.6 in. | 8.7 in. | 103.7 in. | |||
2016 Jeep Compass Ranked #3 | 175.1 in. | 71.4 in. | 65 in. | 8.1 in. | 103.7 in. | Jeep USA | ||
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Ranked #4 | 171.5 in. | 71.3 in. | 64.2 in. | 8.5 in. | 105.1 in. | |||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #5 | 169.1 in. | 69.8 in. | 63.2 in. | 7 in. | 102.8 in. |
Car Name | Trunk Capacity | Passenger Volume | Max Trunk Volume | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #7 | 18.7 cu.ft. | 95.8 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. | |||
2016 Ford Escape Ranked #1 | 34.3 cu.ft. | 98.1 cu.ft. | 67.8 cu.ft. | |||
2016 Fiat 500X Ranked #1 | 12.2 cu.ft. | 100.1 cu.ft. | 50.8 cu.ft. | |||
2016 Jeep Renegade Ranked #2 | 18.5 cu.ft. | 100.1 cu.ft. | 50.8 cu.ft. | Jeep USA | ||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #3 | 24.3 cu.ft. | 100.1 cu.ft. | 72.4 cu.ft. | |||
2016 Jeep Compass Ranked #4 | 22.7 cu.ft. | 101.3 cu.ft. | 62.7 cu.ft. | Jeep USA |
Car Name | Cargo Volume | Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area | Max Cargo Volume | Bed Length | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #1 | 24.9 cu.ft. | 18.7 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. | - | |||
2016 Jeep Renegade Ranked #2 | 81.5 cu.ft. | 18.5 cu.ft. | 50.8 cu.ft. | - | Jeep USA | ||
2016 Ford Escape Ranked #3 | 83.1 cu.ft. | 34.3 cu.ft. | 67.8 cu.ft. | - | |||
2016 Subaru Crosstrek Ranked #4 | 51.9 cu.ft. | 22.3 cu.ft. | 51.9 cu.ft. | - | |||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #5 | 72.4 cu.ft. | 24.3 cu.ft. | 72.4 cu.ft. | - | |||
2016 Jeep Compass Ranked #6 | 62.7 cu.ft. | 22.7 cu.ft. | 62.7 cu.ft. | - | Jeep USA |
Car Name | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Weight | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2016 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #1 | 5200 lbs. | - | 2805 lbs. | |||
2016 Buick Encore Ranked #2 | 3500 lbs. | 1018 lbs. | 3237 lbs. | |||
2016 Jeep Compass Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | 925 lbs. | 3192 lbs. | Jeep USA | ||
2016 Jeep Renegade Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | - | 3044 lbs. | Jeep USA | ||
2016 Honda HR-V Ranked #4 | 1763 lbs. | 1099 lbs. | 2888 lbs. | |||
2016 Mazda CX-3 Ranked #4 | 1763 lbs. | 1031 lbs. | 2809 lbs. |
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User Overall Rating
Posted On: August 12, 2024
This little car can surprise you. Its not really good on gas but the power makes up for it. The sound system is nice. The seats are comfortable and it has a smooth ride. It has a nice size screen on the info system. Plenty of space in the back and with the back seat and the front passenger seat folded down you have a large flat area to haul something big.
