Unveiling the 2017 Chevrolet Trax: An Updated Compact with an Expressive Twist
Chevrolet marks its territory in the rapidly evolving small SUV landscape with the refreshed 2017 Trax. This version is an improved interpretation of one of the best-selling compact SUVs in the U.S., featuring a refreshed design and an upmarket interior, matched with advanced active safety and entertainment features.
Anticipated Success in the Segment
Coming off a full year of robust sales in 2015 with a commendable 63,303 units sold, the Trax has impressively climbed to the position of second-best-selling small SUV in America, boasting a strong presence in the top three globally. The vehicle has marked impressive sales figures of over 400,000 units across 73 markets since its late 2012 launch, with China and the U.S. leading the charts.
In the United States, an interesting trend emerges as over half of Trax customers trading in a vehicle brought in a brand other than Chevrolet. Additionally, the Trax seems to have struck a chord with female customers, accounting for nearly 60 percent of its clientele – a statistic that leads the entire Chevrolet brand lineup.
Evolved Design Language
The Trax showcases a contemporary aesthetic, resonating with the modern design philosophy seen across Chevrolet’s global lineup. Its front-end undergoes a significant transformation, with a new grille and headlamps aligning with design traits seen in newer Chevrolet models like the Malibu, Cruze, and Volt.
LS, LT, and the newly introduced Premier trims of the Trax all showcase a refreshed front fascia featuring Chevrolet’s proportioned dual-port grille. The LT and Premier variants come equipped with halogen projector headlamps with LED signature lighting, while the LS model offers new halogen reflector headlamps. The back end also sports a fresh look with a new fascia and dual taillamps, with the Premier model boasting LED signature lighting and stylish 18-inch aluminum wheels.
Upscale Interior Updates
Stepping inside, the 2017 Trax reveals a revamped instrument panel that gives a sense of a more spacious and luxurious environment. The center instrument panel showcases a new 7-inch-diagonal MyLink color touch screen, framed by Galvano chrome trim, adding to the premium feel. The Premier model even comes with a contrasting color instrument panel trim that matches the leatherette seating trim.
Another notable upgrade for 2017 is the redesigned instrument cluster. It now includes prominent analog speedometer and tachometer readouts along with digital displays as part of the standard driver information center.
Upgraded Connectivity and Safety
The 2017 Trax is armed with an updated 7-inch diagonal infotainment system, supporting modern connectivity technologies such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot. This allows passengers to connect up to seven devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets to high-speed wireless internet.
Beyond the infotainment upgrades, Chevrolet has also included new active safety features designed to alert drivers to potential dangers. These include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Departure Warning. A standard rearview camera and 10 standard airbags further bolster the safety profile of the Trax.
Continued Turbocharged Performance
Powering the 2017 Trax is the returning Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers an SAE-certified 138 horsepower (equivalent to 102 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (equivalent to 200 Nm) between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm.
The enhanced 2017 Chevrolet Trax, ready to hit the market in fall, seems poised to build upon its early success and continue Chevrolet's strong performance in the growing small SUV segment.
