Jump to content
Create New...
  • Drew Dowdell
    Drew Dowdell

    2016 Chicago Auto Show: The 2017 Chevrolet Trax

      Chevy's mini-CUV gets a quick makeover


    It may seem a little early to those of us in the U.S., but Chevy is giving the Trax a makeover for 2017. In the U.S., the Chevrolet Trax has only been on sale for about 13 months, but for other markets it has been around since 2013.

     

    The refresh is mostly cosmetic. The current 1.4T 4-cylinder with 138 hp and a 148 lb-ft of torque, and 6-speed automatic carry over.

     

    On safety, the Trax now has available side blind-zone, rear cross traffic, lane-departure, and forward collision alerts.

     

    The front fascia is all new and moves the Trax in visual line with the 2016 Malibu and Cruze. The interior has been updated with a new Chevy MyLink infotainment system that includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto in a 7" diagonal screen, along with an updated gauge cluster.

     

    2017 Chevrolet Trax Interior

     

    2015 was the first full year on the market for the Trax and Chevy sold 63,303 of them, making it the second best selling car in its class, right behind the Buick Encore.

     

    The Chevrolet Trax is sold as the Chevrolet Tracker and Holden Trax in other market, so we should expect to see those models get the same updates.

     

     

    Chevrolet Press Release on Page 2


    CHICAGO – Building on its early success and the rapid growth of the segment, Chevrolet today introduced the 2017 Trax – a more expressive take on one of America’s best-selling small SUVs.


     

    Contemporary design elements, including an all-new front-end appearance, and a new premium interior compose the visual updates, while new available active safety features and a new infotainment system – with available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility – expand its range of customer-focused technologies.

     

    “In the fastest-growing segment, Chevrolet Trax’s momentum is sure to continue with great design enhancements, premium details, and the latest technologies,” said Steve Majoros, director of marketing, Chevrolet Cars and Crossovers. “Features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and four new active safety features offer customers more than most competitors – and at an entry-level price.”

     

    With sales of 63,303 in 2015 – its first full year on the market – the Trax quickly climbed to the second-best-selling small SUV in America. It is also ranked in the top three globally, achieving more than 400,000 sales in 73 markets since its launch in late 2012. China and the United States are its top markets.
    In the United States, more than half of Trax’s customers with a trade-in turned in something other than a Chevrolet. Trax also attracts nearly 60 percent female customers – the highest percentage in the brand’s entire lineup.

     

    “With the Colorado and Trax, Chevrolet and our dealers are able to offer brand-new entries in fast-growing segments, which helps bring new customers to Chevrolet,” said Majoros. “And with other new vehicles such as the Cruze Hatchback and Bolt EV, we will continue to attract new customers to the Chevrolet franchise and continue to grow market share, as we did in 2015.”

     

    The 2017 Trax goes on sale this fall, offered in LS, LT and new Premier trims.

     

    Contemporary design

     

    The Trax’s fresh, contemporary appearance reflects the modern face of Chevrolet around the globe. A new grille and headlamps echo the styling elements seen in new Chevrolet models such as the Malibu, Cruze and Volt.

     

    “It’s a more sculptural, sophisticated design,” said Steve Kim, Chevrolet Trax designer. “There’s also a sporty streak in the new styling that speaks to the Trax’s agile, fun-to-drive personality.”

     

    The front fascia is all-new and incorporates Chevrolet’s new proportioned dual port grille. New, sleek headlamps flow around the corners and into the front fenders. Trax LS models feature new halogen reflector headlamps and uplevel LT and new Premier models have halogen projector headlamps with LED signature lighting. Chrome also accents the outboard fog lamp bezels.

     

    At the rear is a new fascia and dual taillamps, with the Premier model featuring LED signature lighting. The Premier is also offered with new 18-inch aluminum wheels.

     

    Premium interior
    A modified instrument panel is the foundation for the 2017 Trax’s premium interior enhancements. It interprets Chevrolet's signature dual-cockpit design more expressively, with an upper dashboard hood that flows uninterrupted across the panel to enhance the perception of spaciousness.

     

    The redesigned center instrument panel features greater visibility of a new 7-inch-diagonal MyLink color touch screen and Galvano chrome trim on the instrument panel and console contribute to the Trax’s premium ambiance. Premier models are offered with contrasting-color instrument panel trim that matches their leatherette seating trim.

     

    “Customers will really notice the elevation in the Trax’s interior design and attention to detail,” said Kim. “It’s an environment that transcends segment boundaries, offering rich, premium appointments and seamless integration of the technologies they rely on most.”

     

    Also new for 2017 is the instrument cluster, which features a new gauge display with prominent analog speedometer and tachometer readouts along with digital displays from the standard driver information center.

     

    Enhanced connectivity
    The 2017 Trax offers a new 7-inch diagonal infotainment system designed to support the latest connectivity technologies, including available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot.

     

    With the 4G LTE connection, Trax allows passengers to connect up to seven personal devices such as smartphones, laptops and tablets, to high-speed wireless Internet. Keyless Open and Start also add to the Trax’s roster of available new technologies.

     

    New active safety features

     

    New active safety features are designed to help alert drivers to potential crash situations. They are available depending on the model and include:

    • Side Blind Zone Alert
    • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
    • Forward Collision Alert
    • Lane Departure Warning


    Additional crash-avoidance technologies include a standard rearview camera. Trax also features 10 standard air bags.

     

    Turbocharged performance

     

    Returning for 2017 is the Trax’s Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is rated at an SAE-certified 138 horsepower (102 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm.

    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments

    A nice transformation, and very welcome.  All of the updates are worthy and should allow Chevy to really up the ante in this crazy growing segment.  I actually would not mind owning one.  Looks great!

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    I still think it would be wicked as a tiny Z71... but with Chevy calling their top trim Premiere instead of LTZ, they send a clear signal that this is a car, not a truck... even though for EPA purposes, they prolly want it called a truck.

     

    Hey Drewbert, on your registration for the Encore, does it say "SW" for station wagon?

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    I wish they would have done more with the rear, but I suppose those changes would have been more expensive. Those taillights are still probably my least favorite part of the vehicle, even sans the frumpy front fascia of the pre-refresh. Even so, this refresh is a massive improvement overall. If the material quality inside improves to the point where it's at least on par with its rivals, it could be enough to convince more people to not buy an HRV. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    I still think it would be wicked as a tiny Z71... but with Chevy calling their top trim Premiere instead of LTZ, they send a clear signal that this is a car, not a truck... even though for EPA purposes, they prolly want it called a truck.

    Hey Drewbert, on your registration for the Encore, does it say "SW" for station wagon?

    I'll try to remember to look when I'm home. I know the CR-V is listed as a wagon.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

     

    I still think it would be wicked as a tiny Z71... but with Chevy calling their top trim Premiere instead of LTZ, they send a clear signal that this is a car, not a truck... even though for EPA purposes, they prolly want it called a truck.

    Hey Drewbert, on your registration for the Encore, does it say "SW" for station wagon?

    I'll try to remember to look when I'm home. I know the CR-V is listed as a wagon.

     

    OK, not an emerg or anything, thanks.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    I can't get excited for this while it still uses the old 1.4T.

    This reminds me of the 2.0T in the Escape and Fusion. I don't know why the Escape gets the new one in '17 but the Fusion doesn't. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

     

    I can't get excited for this while it still uses the old 1.4T.

    This reminds me of the 2.0T in the Escape and Fusion. I don't know why the Escape gets the new one in '17 but the Fusion doesn't. 

     

     

    I agree with you, but if I had to make a guess, it's because the Escape 2.0T is the top engine and the Fusion gets the new sport model, so they don't care that the old 2.0T is essentially filling the place of the 3.0L duratec. That's just an assumption. In a perfect world, using the best new version of an engine makes the most sense.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

     

    I still think it would be wicked as a tiny Z71... but with Chevy calling their top trim Premiere instead of LTZ, they send a clear signal that this is a car, not a truck... even though for EPA purposes, they prolly want it called a truck.

    Hey Drewbert, on your registration for the Encore, does it say "SW" for station wagon?

    I'll try to remember to look when I'm home. I know the CR-V is listed as a wagon.

     

    Hmm...I need to check the registration on my sister's '15 Trax..see what it is listed as. 

     

    Edit: checked-- the Trax and my Jeep have '4DSW' on the registrations(AZ)...it may vary state-by-state.... IIRC, the Colorado registrations on my Jeep and my Bronco before that also said SW.   Maybe some states don't have a specific category for SUV or CUV, probably because their ancient back office software systems predate the rise of the SUV/CUV categories...

    Edited by Cubical-aka-Moltar
    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites



    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
    Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

    Guest
    Add a comment...

    ×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

      Only 75 emoji are allowed.

    ×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

    ×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

    ×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


  • google-news-icon.png



  • google-news-icon.png

  • Subscribe to Cheers & Gears

    Cheers and Gears Logo

    Since 2001 we've brought you real content and honest opinions, not AI-generated stuff with no feeling or opinions influenced by the manufacturers.

    Please consider subscribing. Subscriptions can be as little as $1.75 a month, and a paid subscription drops most ads.*
     

    You can view subscription options here.

    *a very limited number of ads contain special coupon deals for our members and will show

  • Similar Content

  • Posts

    • I really like this mission style table, I may try to build it later this year.
    • Having been to Mexico, I can say that Mexican food in Mexico is better than almost any Mexican food you will eat in the USA. Good. I love this, can't happen to more deserving folks.  Time for Tesla to drive off into the history books and rest in peace with Tucker, Saturn, Studebaker, and Whippet. Will be interesting to see which direction you go next. I always loved that building. My wife worked for a few summers in Philly when we were dating...was always happy to visit Philadelphia for a number of reasons. It is gorgeous
    • I see tons of BYD and Kia electrics in Mexico, but very few Teslas....proof that folks south of the border have more sense. Love the KIA DESIGN LANGUAGE.
    • WOW, California now has 48% more chargers than gas pumps. California Just Crossed an EV Milestone. Here's How
    • Showcased as a Concept in Tarragona, Spain for Kia EV day, the Concept EV2 is a agile B-segment electric SUV that show cases what a production model could be for people to experience urban spaces in new immersive ways. The Concept EV2 is designed for the lifestyle-driven buyers who want cutting edge technology with a connected inspiring driving experience. Kia stated the key exterior features of the Concept EV2: Clean, confident exterior look with vertical DRLs, Kia’s Star Map signature lighting, and a dynamic appearance Compact design, with a strong silhouette and rugged bumpers, gives the Concept EV2 a bold, premium feel Profile combines solid stance with a dynamic shoulder line, robust fenders, and geometric glass and wheel arch details for a refined, technical look Kia President and CEO, Ho Sung Song stated the following: “The Kia Concept EV2 represents a bold step forward for the future of urban mobility. With the Concept EV2, we challenged ourselves to create a vehicle that defies expectations, offering innovative technology and practicality beyond its size. This concept previews Kia’s future vision to redefine the segment, bringing a new level of sophistication and usability to urban drivers. It's a clear signal of our dedication to making electric vehicles truly accessible for everyone." Kia stated that the Concept EV2 is a preview of an accessible sub-compact SUV for the masses that is a B-segment EV that hits above its class. Offering innovative experiences with beyond class features. The vision of the Concept EV2 is to bring sustainable mobility to everyone. The Concept EV2 is clearly identifiable as a part of the Kia EV Family. A clean design that projects a unique confident character as the EV2 starts off with DRLs or Daytime running lights. Kia believes they have delivered a sophisticated focus of style in a city-friendly dimension while also projecting a rugged appearance. This dynamic character on the outside continues with a dynamic interior. Key features of the Concepts EV2 interior: Sustainable interior with flexible seating, vibrant design, and functional LED lighting Easy access and versatility with rear-hinged doors, flat floor, and wide-opening tailgate for active urban lifestyles Concept EV2 features pop-up luggage dividers, message window tech, and removable triangular speakers for customizable audio experience Kia is focused on an interior that hits above the beltline for its b-class and yet also allows innovation so that folks can adjust for just about any reason / experience. The Kia Concept EV2 continued to hit above what other companies have done by stating that this B-Segment sub-compact will offer features usually found on larger class EVs. Second row folding seats V2L or Vehicle-to-Load charging OTA or Over-the-Air updates If you were in bad weather but still wanted to have a picnic, the EV2 has a flat floor where one could fold up the rear seats, slide the front seats up against the dash and enjoy a picnic in a segment leading interior floor space. The creation of an expansive area that users can take full advantage of when parked continues with no central pillar and rear-hinged rear doors. The Concept EV2 will have a diagonal LED lighting throughout allowing lighting to be available where one needs it for the lifestyle you want to live. Music can be played through the Concept EV2 triangle speakers found in the front doors and in strategically placed interior areas. Concept EV2 features an innovative pop-up sliding luggage dividers and straps that secure items of all size. Kia's unique message lighting allows occupants to display text messages through the windows allowing communication with pedestrians and other road users. Kia has since stated the EV2 will go into production globally with a launch in early 2026 in Europe and spreading out across the quarters to Asia and North America. Pricing and full options details will be released closer to launch. Kia/Hyundai/Genesis has also announced that they will be investing 21 billion U.S. dollars in expanding their U.S. production capabilities. This will cover the following: The Group to invest a total of USD 21 billion in the U.S. from 2025 to 2028 USD 9 billion to expand U.S. automobile production to 1.2 million units annually USD 6 billion to enhance parts, logistics and steel business, increasing the localization of auto parts and strengthening supply chains USD 6 billion to expand future industries and strengthen external partnerships and energy infrastructure, including EV charging Investment is expected to create more than 100,000 direct and indirect job opportunities by 2028, including 14,000 direct full-time jobs Expansion of production will happen in Alabama and Georgia as well as a production of a Electric Arc Furnace steel mill in Louisiana producing 2.7 million tons of high-strength light weight steel products. This investment will expand the robust nature of their supply chain across the U.S. This investment has a commitment that goes beyond what most companies do in that six billion will cover the following investments: Collaborating with Boston Dynamics to expand the U.S. ecosystem for robotics components and establish a mass-production system Partnering with NVIDIA to accelerate the development of AI solutions for future mobility, including autonomous driving and robotics Advancing R&D with Supernal, the Group’s US affiliate for AAM business, to commercialize an eVTOL vehicle by 2028 Supplying robotaxis to Waymo as part of its strategic partnership with Hyundai Motor Company, and co-developing autonomous driving services with Aptiv Investing potential startups through venture capital and other funding mechanisms to support U.S. startups specializing in mobility, robotics, and AI Strategic cooperation between Hyundai Engineering & Construction Holtec International on Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology Establishing infrastructure to bolster use of renewable energy Investing in IONNA EV charging alliance to expand infrastructure This commitment of investment is expected to generate 570,000 jobs nationwide as Kia presses on to become the dominate ICE / Hybird / EV producer in North America. This brings it back to the question that started it all, will the public love and want the EV2? View full article
  • Who's Online (See full list)

  • My Clubs

×
×
  • Create New...

Hey there, we noticed you're using an ad-blocker. We're a small site that is supported by ads or subscriptions. We rely on these to pay for server costs and vehicle reviews.  Please consider whitelisting us in your ad-blocker, or if you really like what you see, you can pick up one of our subscriptions for just $1.75 a month or $15 a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way to help support real, honest content, that isn't generated by an AI bot.

See you out there.

Drew
Editor-in-Chief

Write what you are looking for and press enter or click the search icon to begin your search