Chevrolet Philippines came out with the Trax to cater to the growing demand for subcompact crossovers in the country. The model’s latest update comes with the American brand’s signature bowtie grille that complements the new headlight design. The Chevrolet Trax sports a muscular facade, defined by body lines. The subcompact crossover can sit up to five people in its aesthetically refined cabin. Seats are upholstered in leatherette mixed with premium fabrics and accent stitching. On the center of its sleek dashboard is a 7-inch diagonal touchscreen equipped with Chevrolet’s MyLink Infotainment System. The Trax is on top of the safety game as well with its park assist sensors, anti-theft alarm, electronic brakeforce distribution, engine drag control, panic brake assist, and the brand’s Stabilitrack system. All of these are powered by a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 140 hp and 200 Nm of torque. The Chevrolet Trax comes in two variants: the base 1.4 LS AT and the top of the line 1.4 LT AT.
Launch
Chevrolet Philippines first introduced the Trax in October 2015. A new generation model was launched in 2016 that came with a facelift in which the front fascia and the rear bumper were given refreshed designs. The 2017 generation model of the Trax followed the design language applied to the Chevrolet Malibu and Spark.
Exterior
The Chevrolet Trax is styled with muscular lines which make the vehicle look stronger and bulkier than its actual size. Its front grille sports a trimmed version of the split design, compared to the model’s first generation.
The top of the line LT variant sports projector halogen headlamps in slim housing, fog lamps, and daytime LED running lights. Meanwhile, the LS base variant settles with a set of halogen reflectors. Both variants are equipped with a set of taillights that slide in close to the rear glass.
The top of the line variant rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels while the entry-level variant comes with 16-inch alloys.
Interior
The subcompact crossover’s interior’s design is highly similar to that of any other Chevrolet vehicle. The dashboard and the finishes are akin to the style of the brand’s sedans. Both variants of the Trax are decked in jet black giving it a sleek and modern look. Seats of the top variant are upholstered in leatherette material combined with fabric finishes, while the base variant comes with premium fabric upholstery. The LT variant features a 4-way electronically adjustable driver’s seat for added driving comfort.
Technology & Safety Features
The Chevrolet Trax offers tech features geared towards providing the utmost convenience. The climate control system is hooked to the front passengers’ vents, while in place of rear vents is a 230V power outlet capable of powering basic appliances, laptops, or mobile device charging.
The Trax is also decked with Chevrolet’s MyLink Infotainment System, which allows passengers to seamlessly connect via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system is attached to a set of six speakers.
Both variants of the Trax are equipped with rear parking sensors, while the LT variant has an additional reversing camera feature.
Platform & Chassis
The Trax rides on a GM Gamma II platform which is based on the subcompact crossover’s predecessor, the Chevrolet Sonic. McPherson strut independent suspension remains at the front while a torsion beam is attached to the rear. In the wheels are ventilated disc front brakes and solid discs for the rear.
The crossover is in a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout wherein the engine is placed crosswise in order to create more space in the cabin.
Engine & Drivetrain
Both base and top of the line variants of the Chevrolet Trax is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec gasoline engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with active select manual mode. It produces 140 hp and 100 Nm of torque, cabable of city cruising. Both variants are also equipped with electric power steering making the vehicle easy to handle.
