2024 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV is 30 MPG for Under 30 MSRP

In a year where a gallon of milk rivals the cost of a gallon of gasoline, finding a bargain is becoming an art of survival. Especially when it comes to buying a new car. Avoiding a mortgage-sized monthly payment and factory recalls that tingle the senses of bus bench lawyers. There are still new cars wearing MSRPs for under $25k in 2023.

The problem is that these vehicles can’t fit a typical family of 4 unless they ride in car seats and will struggle to carry the bounty from a trip to IKEA. This is where I praise the all-new 2024 Chevrolet Trax. A crossover SUV that drives like a mid-size sedan offers the cargo space of a wagon and sips fuel like a hatchback with a starting price of $21K.  

Chevrolet completely redesigned the Trax for 2024 like the six-million-dollar man. It’s bigger, longer, and lower than its predecessor, significantly improving rear legroom and cargo space. The space in the back seat is so substantial you’d think you were riding a Chevy Impala. In addition, the dropped ride height provides a sedan-like feel when you sit in the driver’s seat. Upon opening the liftgate, you’ll find an area large enough to pack a four-day weekend camping trip and a space-saver spare tire under the floorboard.

However, what truly surprised me about the new Trax is the ride quality. Most vehicles at this price point have a lightness to them. The doors feel light, the road noise is hard to ignore and constantly reminded that you’re driving a budget-conscious vehicle when you drive over a pothole. That is not the case with the Trax. The wagon-like SUV glides over pavement and you can feel the suspension taking the brunt of force before reaching your lower spine. The ride is soft enough to be called luxurious.

Powering the 2024 Trax is an endearing turbocharged three-cylinder engine borrowed from the Chevrolet Trailblazer. The 1.2-liter engine sends its 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. I’ve heard other motor journalists say that Trax lacks pizzazz when you hit the gas, but I disagree. For a little engine, it scoots pretty good, providing more than enough brawn to stay in the passing line.

The model shown is the top-of-the-line Trax Activ presented in Cayenne Orange with 18-inch glass black aluminum wheels. Photographing this vehicle was a treat as the Trax has no bad sides thanks to styling inspired by the larger Chevrolet Blazer. I especially like the rear taillights and the sculpted profile lines that give the SUV the appearance that it was shaped by hurricane-force winds.

The Activ is one of five available trim levels with the LS, 1RS, LT and 2RS standing behind it. Despite its top-tier status, this Trax Activ had a starting price of $23k. After adding options like a power sunroof, adaptive cruise control and the sharp Cayenne Orange paint job, the total cost is a few dollars under $27k.

Critics about this vehicle are too few and insignificant to mention. If you’re looking for a stylish crossover SUV that can average nearly 30 mpg and haul the essentials of parenthood while providing the rear legroom of an Uber Black for less than $25k, the Trax has a deal for you. 

Engine: 1.2-liter Turbocharged inline 3

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

0 to 60: 8.8 seconds

Staring Price: $21,495

Price as Shown: $26,935 (Activ)