The latest Chevy Trax is one of those very rare instances when we actually get more for less. For a starting price that undercuts the previous generation by a whopping $1400, the 2024 Trax comes in as a replacement for years of failed attempts at the entry-level market. But what is it that makes this small crossover so different from its predecessors? The answer would be the lack of awkward proportions and cost-cutting interiors that plagued Chevy's old budget cars, paired with a price tag that keeps things within the $20,000 range, even when fully loaded.

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Styling Takes A Quantum Leap

While the previous Trax was awkwardly tall and stubby, the new model takes a completely different approach. This time around, the cheapest Chevy features squinty DRLs with the actual headlights positioned just below. All models except for the more rugged Activ feature an interesting trim piece that cuts across the grille, splitting into two thin lines that reach towards the direction of the fenders. Along the side, the Trax's larger footprint does wonders, with the roofline becoming longer and lower, nearly resembling a wagon. Its ride height is taller, and paired with the wider stance and enlarged wheels, the new Trax eminates a much stronger appearance. The creases in sheetmetal have been reduced to a minimum, but the lines that remain promote a sharper character compared to last year's more bubbly look.

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Cost-Cutting Done Right

The amount of style and equipment packed into the Trax's interior is unusual for its entry-level class. While base models make do with traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch display, the rest of the lineup gains an expansive 11-inch infotainment display paired with a digital instrument cluster. Those are decent numbers for a car that undercuts $30,000 even when fully loaded. Large circular air vents flank the newly-shaped dashboard, representing a drastic departure from the substandard looks of the old model's cabin. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows here, as hard and shiny plastics still remain, though Chevy tries its best to hide those materials by slapping more pleasing textures and patterns over them.

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Pros: Cheaper than before, athletic looks, plenty of tech for the price range

Drives Well For What It Is

Remember the neighboring Trailblazer? Chevy manages to split the two apart with driving dynamics, and the Trax sacrifices all-wheel drive in favor of its slightly pricier sibling. The Trax doesn't bother trying to emulate true SUVs––save for the Activ––as that's the Trailblazer's job. As a result, its driving position is much lower than most subcompact SUVs, delivering a more car-like experience that most crossovers fail to deliver. Each Trax is propelled by the same 136-hp 1.2 liter three-cylinder, paired to a 6-speed automatic that sends power to the front wheels only. Those who want all-wheel drive will find it in the slightly pricier Trailblazer. While the Trax loses a cylinder and quite a bit of horsepower, Chevy argues that the lower, wider structure makes up for the loss in power with improved driving dynamics. In terms of straight line speed, the Trax's estimated 8.7 0-60 run undercuts the previous generation by a full second, but that's not to say it's quick. That just goes to show how slow the old model was.

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Much More Space

The Trax's growth spurt yields great benefits not only on the outisde, but also for the newly upgraded cabin. With a whopping 11-inch increase in size overall, Chevy says rear legroom has grown by 3 inches. Cargo space has also grown by up to 12% with the seats folded down. It's not just the larger numbers that make the Trax feel roomier inside, but a reshaped center console also contributes to the more airy cabin.

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Cons: Laggy transmission, base model limited to hubcaps, doesn't offer AWD

Four Trim Levels

The Trax comes in four different trim levels, starting with the basic LS and climbing up to the range-topping RS. The LS comes in at just $20,400, but unfortunately this bargain price tag means buyers will have to make do with spartan steel wheels. The LT brings more stylish wheels and the larger 11-inch touchscreen, and while the price jumps to $22,300, the upgraded equipment is worth the extra couple thousand dollars. The Activ is the next level up, bringing uniquely rugged looks, blacked-out trim and wheels, and distinctive yellow accents inside. The Activ opens up at $23,900. Last but not least is the top-dog RS, which actually comes in two variants. Its sportier looks inside and out can be had at a slight discount with the 1RS, which costs $22,100. Meanwhile, those who want all the bells and whistles can leap for the $23,900 2RS, which precisely matches the Activ's price. Considering what the Trax offers in top spec, $23,900 is not bad at all, especially considering that the higher price gives buyers the choice between sporty RS or rugged Activ.

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Verdict: The Chevrolet Trax manages to remedy the many issues we had with its predecessors, all while making the asking price lower than before. This is one of few vehicles today that truly provides more for less.