By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos GM Media
For 2015 Trax is Chevrolet’s seventh small vehicle launch in four years, a diverse lineup that’s seen the brand’s share of the small, compact and mini-car segments more than triple.
With the utility of an SUV and agility of a compact car, the 2015 Chevrolet Trax is a city-smart vehicle Packed with the technology city dwellers depend on for their connected lifestyles, including 4G LTE Wi-Fi and Siri Eyes Free, Trax is also an efficient performer, with a standard turbocharged engine delivering power on demand.
Versatility
The 2015 Chevrolet Trax offers seating for up to five with up to eight seating/cargo-carrying configurations, a 60/40-split, flat-folding rear seat and a fold-flat front passenger seat combine to allow storage of long items such as skis or a surfboard, up to eight feet long.
Another great addition, it offers a segment-leading 15 interior storage compartments including upper and lower storage in each door, upper and lower glove box, upper and lower center stack, left and right of the center stack and left of the steering wheel.
Standard features include a rigid, removable cargo security cover and a storage area under the rear cargo floor. Dealer-available accessory items include a collapsible cargo organizer and cargo net.
2015 Chevrolet Trax LT FWD
2015 Chevrolet Trax LT FWD
Technology
Trax’s next-generation MyLink provides easy, intuitive operation of basic functions, and is highly customizable and capable of linking devices such as smartphones and MP3 players. The system includes Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phone, as well as Pandora, TuneIn radio and Stitcher.
OnStar with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot is standard. It provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected allowing the connection of multiple personal devices such as smartphones, laptops and tablets to high-speed wireless Internet. The hotspot is on whenever the vehicle is on and comes with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial (whichever comes first), after which the customer can purchase additional data.
The available BringGo app brings smartphone-enabled navigation that can be displayed on the large MyLink screen including using the touch screen to control the navigation. Sirius XM Satellite Radio is standard on LT and LTZ models and for three months of trial service. Sirius XM Travel Link and Tune Select are available for an additional cost.
2015 Chevrolet Trax LT FWD – interior
2015 Chevrolet Trax LT FWD – interior
Performance and Maneuverability
Trax is powered by an Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine that’s backed by an efficiency enhancing six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is rated at 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm. The wide rpm range for the maximum torque helps Trax deliver a more confident driving experience, with a strong feeling of power across the rpm band.
The available all-wheel drive enhances driving confidence in slippery conditions. The automatically engaging system seamlessly splits torque between the front and rear wheels, when required, for better traction and handling.
A 100.6-inch wheelbase and wide stance 60.6-inch front and rear track contribute to a planted stance that fosters a more confident driving experience, while a tight 36.7-foot turning circle enhances maneuverability and nimbleness in tight urban environments, helping make the Trax easy to park.
All models feature an electric power steering system that helps save fuel by drawing energy only when the steering wheel is turned. Designed to complement Trax’s balance of responsiveness and comfort, the EPS’s feel is light yet direct, enhancing the vehicle’s feeling of maneuverability particularly at low speeds and during parking.
Summary
Chevrolet is making huge inroads with small cars and the Trax is the latest example, it is the right vehicle at the right time in the U.S., building on Chevrolet’s strong SUV heritage with a package of features combining value, versatility, technology and maneuverability.
The Estimated fuel economy is rated at 29 mpg City and 34 mpg Highway. Manufacturer’s suggested starting retail price is $22.445.00, the one I drove included the LT Plus Package (Seat Adjuster, Driver 6 way Power, Seat Trim Deluxe Cloth/Leatherette, Leather Wrap Steering Wheel and Rear Park Assist), and it came in at $23,815.00 including destination charge.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
