In a car market constantly evolving, it’s easy to lose track of vehicle classifications. Stepping into a rental agency in 2024, one might be taken aback to learn that the 2024 Chevy Trax Lt is now considered a full-size car. This revelation, shared by a Hertz agent, prompts the question: is this a case of automotive identity evolution, or is there genuine substance to this claim?
The rationale behind this designation seemingly stems from comparing the second-generation Trax’s interior space and legroom to larger sedans previously considered full-size. When you consider its front-wheel-drive configuration, the 2024 Chevy Trax LT surprisingly earns a size rating once associated with vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala. This is a far cry from the previous generation Trax, a vehicle many found lacking in size and appeal.
The revamped 2024 Chevy Trax LT has indeed turned heads and captured buyer interest, particularly in regions outside major urban centers. With a week-long break and a coastal destination in mind, the Trax LT emerged as the ideal vehicle for a long-distance road trip, a true test of its capabilities and comfort.
Having spent years driving and riding in General Motors vehicles, experiencing both their strengths and weaknesses, provided a solid background for evaluating the 2024 Chevy Trax LT. GM’s budget-friendly offerings have historically delivered value through affordability, reasonable reliability, and practical features, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Settling into the 2024 Chevy Trax LT for a lengthy drive, the light grey metallic paint might not be the most exciting, but the interior immediately impresses for a vehicle starting at an MSRP of $22,300 (the base LS trim even lower at $20,400). The cabin boasts a surprisingly upscale feel with two-tone finishes, textured surfaces, faux leather seating with cloth inserts, a prominent 11-inch touchscreen paired with a digital gauge cluster, and stylish air vents accented in blue. However, initial impressions can be deceiving. The real test lies in daily usability and comfort over extended periods.
rental review 2024 chevrolet trax lt
While the 2024 Chevy Trax LT makes a strong first impression, some ergonomic quirks become apparent quickly. The absence of a traditional handbrake and the wide center console impact front space. The console, while featuring a piano black finish around the shifter, is constructed of hard, inexpensive plastic, also found on the upper door panels. A side-hinged console lid and softer armrest materials would significantly improve the interior’s perceived quality and user comfort. The door armrests, in particular, are notably hard. Balancing cost-effectiveness with user comfort is crucial, especially when the Trax LT is equipped with a generous array of features.
Despite being positioned below the Trailblazer in Chevy’s lineup, the 2024 Chevy Trax LT LT trim is far from basic. It includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, blind spot monitoring, an HD backup camera with rear cross-traffic alert, and seamless smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Single-zone climate control and a physical volume knob for the audio system are also standard, though the knob’s placement requires reaching around the steering wheel and wiper stalk.
rental review 2024 chevrolet trax lt
The most compelling aspect of the 2024 Chevy Trax LT is its spaciousness. Even for taller drivers, legroom is abundant, with ample space even when the driver’s seat is pushed far back. Rear passengers benefit from a flat floor and generous legroom for this vehicle class. While rear amenities are basic, limited to device plug-ins and lacking features like a center armrest or map pockets, the cargo area behind the rear seats is surprisingly large and practical.
On the road, the 2024 Chevy Trax LT’s 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine performs better than expected for its size. While not a performance powerhouse, it provides adequate acceleration and highway responsiveness. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and readily downshifts when needed for passing or merging. Fuel economy is respectable, mirroring its subcompact crossover competitors, achieving around 32 mpg on the highway, consistent with its EPA highway rating. However, it’s worth considering how the older, larger 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder from the Chevy Cruze might have performed in this application.
rental review 2024 chevrolet trax lt
Driving the 2024 Chevy Trax LT evokes a sense of familiarity with previous GM vehicles, particularly the Chevrolet Cruze. Shared components like door switches and handles are noticeable. However, unlike some older GM models, the Trax LT’s steering is well-tuned, lacking the on-center dead zone that plagued earlier models like the Cruze.
The ride quality in the 2024 Chevy Trax LT is tuned for typical GM comfort. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and provides a composed ride, even with its increased ground clearance of 7.3 inches. Cornering is predictable, although not sporty, which aligns with the vehicle’s intended purpose. Road noise is present, partly due to the all-season tires, but overall, the driving experience is comfortable and refined for its class.
rental review 2024 chevrolet trax lt
The 2024 Chevy Trax LT successfully delivers on the promise of value, offering a substantial package of features and space at an affordable price point. Its design is more attractive and substantial than competitors like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue. The Trax LT also boasts superior rear seat legroom and cargo capacity compared to these front-wheel-drive rivals, while remaining competitively priced.
In terms of power, the 2024 Chevy Trax LT with its 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, outperforms both the Hyundai Venue (121 hp, 113 lb-ft) and Nissan Kicks (122 hp, 114 lb-ft). Its larger dimensions are also noteworthy, exceeding both the Kicks and Venue, and even surpassing its stablemate, the Trailblazer, in overall length. The Trax LT’s hood is notably long and flat, providing a commanding view from the driver’s seat.
In conclusion, the 2024 Chevy Trax LT is a surprisingly compelling option in the subcompact SUV segment. Its combination of spaciousness, features, and affordability makes it a strong contender. While some cost-cutting measures are evident in interior materials, the overall package represents excellent value. With proper tires, the Trax LT could be a capable all-weather vehicle in many climates. Its potential to challenge segment leaders like the Subaru Crosstrek will depend on long-term reliability, but the 2024 Chevy Trax LT demonstrates that Chevrolet is still capable of producing appealing and practical vehicles that resonate with a broad audience.
