2013 CHEVROLET Trax 1.4L Turbo AWD 6MT (140 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Chevrolet pulled back from the European market, but it didn’t leave empty-handed; it took the Gamma II platform, also used for the mundane Sonic and the European Opel Mokka.

When the SUV and crossover market exploded, General Motors already had a huge experience in those fields on all continents. Thus, it just made sense to provide something for everybody. In Europe, it made the Opel Mokka, which was translated in the U.S. as Chevrolet Trax, or Holden Trax for the Australian market.

Despite its lilliputian size, especially when compared with the Chevy Tahoe, the Trax was a breath of fresh air for the carmaker. It provided the vehicle mostly for in-city usage, and it was highly appreciated by those who needed to have a higher seating position than in a Sonic, for instance. Even though it shared its platform with the Aveo, the small crossover had a positive attitude, with a bold front fascia that sported the bow-tie badge on the one-slat grille. The front bumper featured side-scoops for the foglamps, and the headlights were swept back above the fenders. From its sides, the car sported an ascending line that was emphasized by the rear, enlarged quarter-panels.

Inside, there was hardly room for rear passengers. Still, those were fine for children. The problem was not for the headroom but for the legroom. At the front, on the other hand, two occupants could relax on the bucket seats, and there was a tall center console between them. Moreover, that was connected with the center stack, which supported the infotainment display. But the low-quality materials confirmed the budget-segment status of the car.

Under the hood, GM installed a choice of two gasoline engines for the U.S market, while other countries were spoiled with an additional 1.7-liter turbodiesel. In addition, some versions were sold with all-wheel drive systems.