The Chevy Trax and Chevy Trailblazer are two compact SUVs vying for attention in a crowded market. Sharing the same platform and a similar starting price point, these two Chevy siblings might seem indistinguishable at first glance. However, a closer look reveals key differences in performance, features, and overall driving experience. This detailed comparison will dissect the Chevy Trax and Trailblazer, helping you determine which model best suits your needs.
2024 Chevrolet Trax. Photo by Nadine Filion
Shared DNA: Platform and Powertrain
Both the Trax and Trailblazer are built on GM’s VSS-F platform, also underpinning the Buick Envista and Encore. They both offer a standard 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. A torsion beam rear suspension is also common to both. These shared elements contribute to a similar footprint and fuel economy in both vehicles.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer engine. Photo by Nadine Filion
Size and Space: Trax Takes the Lead
Surprisingly, the supposedly smaller Trax boasts larger dimensions than the Trailblazer. It’s longer and wider, resulting in a more spacious interior and comparable cargo volume. While the Trailblazer offers a marginally larger maximum cargo capacity and a fold-flat front passenger seat for longer items, the Trax’s overall interior space advantage is significant.
2024 Chevrolet Trax interior. Photo by Nadine Filion
Driving Dynamics: A Clear Winner Emerges
Despite sharing a platform and base engine, the driving experiences of the Trax and Trailblazer differ significantly. The Trax offers a refined and comfortable ride, even with larger 19-inch wheels. Its steering is responsive and provides good feedback. In contrast, the Trailblazer suffers from a bouncy ride, especially on rough roads, and its steering feels vague. The Trax’s six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, while the Trailblazer’s nine-speed automatic can feel sluggish.
2024 Chevrolet Trax on the road. Photo by Nadine Filion
Features and Value: Trax Offers More for Less
The Trax consistently offers more standard features for a lower price than the Trailblazer. Heated front seats and mirrors, along with remote start, are standard on the base Trax LS but not on the equivalent Trailblazer. While the Trailblazer offers available all-wheel drive (AWD), a feature absent in the Trax, the price difference doesn’t justify the Trailblazer’s limited feature set. Consider the cost of winter tires for the front-wheel-drive Trax, and the value proposition swings even further in its favor.
Chevrolet Trax infotainment screen. Photo by Nadine Filion
The Verdict: Trax Triumphs
The Chevy Trax emerges as the clear winner in this comparison. Its superior driving dynamics, more generous interior space, richer standard features, and lower price point make it a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. While the Trailblazer offers AWD and a slightly higher driving position, these advantages are overshadowed by its shortcomings in other areas. For most buyers, the Chevy Trax provides a better overall package and greater value for money.
Choosing the Right Trax Trim
While the base Trax LS offers exceptional value, the LT trim stands out with its upgraded infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, and essential safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The top-tier Activ trim adds luxurious touches like Evotex upholstery and a power driver’s seat, still coming in at a lower price than the base Trailblazer. Ultimately, the best Trax trim for you will depend on your budget and desired features. However, the LT trim hits the sweet spot for most buyers, offering a great balance of features and value.
