Looking to purchase a Chevrolet Trax but not certain which model year to choose?
You’re in the right place. This guide dives deep into the Chevy Trax lineup, highlighting the best of the best and the years you might want to steer clear of.
We’ve done the arduous lifting for you, sifting through data from trustworthy sources like the NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Edmunds.
Our analysis covers everything from engine performance and tech features to reliability issues and safety ratings across all Trax generations.
Ready to discover your perfect Chevy Trax?
Let’s dive right in and break it down, year by year!
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Chevrolet Trax Generations
The Chevrolet Trax burst onto the scene in 2015, carving out its niche as a compact SUV that packs a punch. This small powerhouse quickly won fans with its city-friendly size, spirited engine, and surprisingly roomy interior.
But how has it evolved over the years? Take a look at this brief rundown of Trax generations from 2015 to now:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (U200) | 2015-2022 |
| 2nd generation | 2024-Present |
Each generation brings its own set of upgrades and modifications. From design overhauls to tech improvements and performance boosts, these changes can make or break your driving experience. So, let’s dig further and find out which years shine and which ones might leave you in the dust.
Chevrolet Trax Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When it comes to picking the greatest Chevy Trax, we don’t just throw darts at a calendar. Our rankings are based on a pile of data, including:
- What owners are saying (because who knows a car better than the people driving it?)
- How much it’ll cost you to keep it running
- How well it’ll protect you in a crash
- What the experts at Consumer Reports think about its reliability and owner satisfaction
- Any red flags from the NHTSA (recalls, investigations, and complaints)
- Ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
We’ve analyzed all these numbers and put them into one simple graph:
Now, let’s break it down into the exceptional, the bad, and the “meh” years for the Chevy Trax.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (U200) | 2018 2020 2021 2022 | 2017 2019 | 2015 2016 |
| 2nd generation | 2024 | N/A | N/A |
Remember, more NHTSA recalls and complaints typically mean decreased dependability. And those “Neutral Years”? They’re the standard options – not terrible, but not winning any races either.
Ready to see which Trax models come out victorious?
Let’s dive in!
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Trax 1st Generation (2015-2022)
The first-gen Trax hit the streets aiming to be the Swiss Army knife of cars – compact enough for city life but with the muscle of an SUV. But did it hit the target every year? Let’s find out.
The Best Years: 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022
Want a Trax that’s more prone to turn heads than wind up in the garage? The 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2022 models are your main options.
These models pack a 1.4L turbocharged I4 engine under the hood, pumping out 138 horses and 148 lb-ft of torque. Not too shabby for a small, right? Plus, with 26 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway, your wallet won’t hate you at the pump.
The 6-speed automatic transmission in these models is smoother than a greased-up bowling lane, making for a tranquil ride.
Safety-wise, these Trax years don’t mess around. We’re talking 10 airbags, a rearview camera that’s sharper than your high school yearbook photo, and stability control that keeps you on the direct and narrow.
Tech enthusiasts, celebrate! These models come with a 7-inch touchscreen that plays well with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Bottom line? These years got the dependability boost and feature upgrades that make them stand out from the multitude.
The Neutral Years: 2017, 2019
The 2017 and 2019 Trax models? They’re like that friend who’s always dependable but never really surprises you.
Engine-wise, they’re twins with the best years – same 1.4L turbo engine, same 6-speed auto transmission. So, performance and fuel economy? Check and check.
But here’s the catch – these models had a few snags. Some owners reported engine troubles and power steering gremlins. Nothing major, but enough to keep them out of the “best” category.
On the plus side, they did get some decent tech and safety upgrades. But let’s be real – they weren’t exactly groundbreaking.
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills ride without breaking the bank, these neutral years might be your sweet spot.
The Worst Years: 2015, 2016
Now, for the years you might want to think twice about – 2015 and 2016. These initial birds caught more than their fair share of worms.
What went wrong? Well, electrical systems decided to play hide and seek, engines got a case of the hiccups, and don’t even get us started on the 2016’s defective turbo malfunctions.
But wait, there’s more! These models were recall magnets. We’re talking airbag amnesia, power steering breakdowns, and control arms that wanted to go their separate ways.
The takeaway? While these models might come with an enticing price tag, they could end up costing you more in frustrations and repair bills down the road.
Want the comprehensive nitty-gritty on these recalls?
Check out the NHTSA’s reports for the 2015 and 2016 Trax. It’s not exactly bedtime reading, but it might save you from some automotive nightmares.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Trax 2nd Generation (2024-Present)
Hold onto your hats, folks! The second-gen Trax isn’t just a facelift – it’s a complete new creature. Chevy went back to the drawing board and came out swinging.
The Best Year: 2024
The 2024 Trax? It’s not just an enhancement – it’s a revolution on wheels.
Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 1.2L three-cylinder engine. Sure, it’s got one less cylinder than its predecessor, but don’t let that mislead you. This diminutive powerhouse kicks out 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. It might have less horsepower on paper, but that extra torque makes it zippier than a double espresso.
Looks-wise, the 2024 Trax is turning heads faster than a celebrity sighting. It’s got that svelte, sporty vibe that screams “Blazer Jr.” – and trust us, that’s a compliment.
Step inside, and you’ll think you’ve wandered into a tech expo. We’re talking an available 11-inch touchscreen that’s essentially a tablet on your dash. And with standard noise-cancelling across all trims, it’s more peaceful than a library on a silent Sunday morning.
Need to haul stuff? The 2024 Trax has got your back, with 12% more cargo volume when you fold down those rear seats.
Safety features? Oh, they’ve got ’em. From emergency braking that spots pedestrians to lane-keep assist that’s like an attentive angel for your steering wheel, this Trax has more safety tech than a cautious wrap factory.
You’ve got choices, too. Five trim levels – LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and Activ – each adding more features and gizmos. Even the base model comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, because who uses cords anymore?
In a nutshell, the 2024 Chevy Trax isn’t just raising the bar – it’s soaring over it.
Chevrolet Trax Resale Values
Inquisitive about how well your Trax will maintain its value? Check out this graph showing average resale values across different years and generations:
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the Chevy Trax lineup laid bare. Your top picks? The 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and the groundbreaking 2024 models. Steer clear of the 2015 and 2016 unless you’re up for a potential fixer-upper escapade.
Now, we’re curious – what’s your Trax must-have feature? The lively turbo engine? That fancy new infotainment system? Or maybe it’s all about that compact size for urban living?
Drop your thoughts in the comments beneath.
Let’s get this Trax discussion rolling!
