The 2020 Chevy Trax is a subcompact crossover designed for drivers seeking city-friendly dimensions, budget-conscious pricing, and modern tech in a stylish package. As Chevrolet’s answer to the growing demand for compact SUVs, the 2020 Trax blends utility with comfort, making it ideal for urban dwellers, first-time SUV buyers, or anyone needing an efficient everyday commuter.
This detailed review covers everything you need to know about the 2020 Trax, including its trims, design, performance, features, pros and cons, and how it compares to rivals in the subcompact SUV class.
Compact Design with Bold Character
Urban-Ready Exterior Dimensions
The 2020 Trax features a small footprint perfect for tight city parking, with short overhangs, a tall roofline, and high seating. Its sculpted sides, wide stance, and signature Chevrolet grille give it a modern, slightly rugged look that stands out in its class.
Wheel options range from 16 to 18 inches depending on the trim. Chrome detailing on the LT and Premier trims adds a touch of upscale appeal, while roof rails are standard across all models for added practicality.
Color Options and Styling
Available exterior colors include:
- Cajun Red Tintcoat
- Pacific Blue Metallic
- Satin Steel Metallic
- Mosaic Black
- Summit White
These colors give buyers a range of subtle and vibrant options to match personal style preferences.
Interior Features and Comfort
Simple Layout, Functional Comfort
Inside, the 2020 Trax offers a clean, straightforward layout. Materials are practical rather than premium, but build quality is solid. The cabin includes supportive front seats, ample headroom, and a surprisingly upright driving position that provides great road visibility.
Rear seat space is decent for a subcompact SUV, with enough room for two adults on shorter trips or kids on daily drives. The cargo area measures 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded—plenty of space for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear.
Cabin Highlights
- Available leatherette-trimmed seats on Premier
- 60/40-split folding rear seats
- Multiple cupholders and smart storage areas
- Power sunroof option on higher trims
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
1.4L Turbocharged Engine
Every 2020 Trax is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not a performance SUV, the Trax delivers smooth and responsive city driving with adequate highway power.
Front-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive
Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available on all trims for added traction in wet or snowy conditions. The AWD system is more for peace of mind than off-road utility, but it’s a nice option in regions with seasonal weather challenges.
Fuel Efficiency
The Trax excels in fuel economy:
- FWD models: 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- AWD models: 24 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
These numbers make the Trax one of the more efficient options in its category, helping drivers save on gas over time.
Trim Levels and Key Features
The 2020 Trax comes in three trim levels: LS, LT, and Premier. Here’s what each offers:
LS (Base Trim)
- 7-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3
- Rearview camera
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Cloth upholstery
- 16-inch steel wheels
LT
- Roof rails
- LED daytime running lights
- Upgraded cloth upholstery
- Cruise control
- Remote start
- 16-inch alloy wheels
Premier
- Leatherette seating
- Heated front seats
- Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Fog lights
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Bose premium audio system
The Premier trim adds a more refined feel with added safety and tech features, appealing to those wanting an elevated driving experience without stepping into luxury pricing.
Infotainment and Connectivity
User-Friendly Tech Setup
All 2020 Trax models feature Chevrolet’s intuitive Infotainment 3 system, centered on a 7-inch touchscreen. It includes:
- Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Voice commands
- OnStar and Chevrolet Connected Access
- Optional satellite radio
Despite its compact size, the Trax doesn’t skimp on digital connectivity, making it perfect for tech-savvy drivers.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and Available Safety
While not packed with high-end driver-assistance features, the 2020 Trax includes several important safety elements:
- 10 airbags (standard)
- Rearview camera
- StabiliTrak electronic stability control
- Optional blind-spot monitoring
- Optional forward collision alert and lane departure warning (Premier only)
The Trax earned good crash test results, including a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, reinforcing its status as a safe and practical urban commuter.
Driving Impressions and Real-World Use
The Trax shines in urban environments. Its small size, tight turning radius, and responsive steering make it easy to park and maneuver. Ride quality is smooth on city streets, though it can feel slightly firm over rough patches. On highways, it remains stable, though acceleration may feel limited under full load or during steep climbs.
Its visibility and upright seating position make for a confident and relaxed driving experience.
Maintenance, Warranty, and Ownership Costs
Low Operating Costs
Routine maintenance for the 2020 Trax is affordable, and parts are widely available. It comes with:
- 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- One free maintenance visit
Combined with excellent fuel economy, the Trax is a cost-effective option for daily drivers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact size great for city driving
- Modern infotainment with smartphone integration
- Affordable pricing with solid standard features
- Available all-wheel drive
- Good visibility and safety ratings
Cons
- Modest engine power
- Limited rear legroom for taller adults
- Interior materials could be more upscale
- Advanced driver-assist features only on top trim
Who Should Buy the 2020 Chevy Trax?
The 2020 Trax is a solid choice for:
- First-time SUV buyers on a budget
- Urban dwellers who need compact size and easy handling
- Daily commuters who prioritize fuel efficiency
- Families seeking a second vehicle or teen-friendly crossover
- Tech-focused drivers who want built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
FAQs
Is the 2020 Chevy Trax reliable?
Yes, the Trax has a reputation for solid reliability, especially when regularly maintained.
Does the Trax have all-wheel drive?
Yes, all trims offer an AWD option for improved traction in bad weather.
What’s the towing capacity of the 2020 Trax?
The 2020 Trax is not rated for towing and is best used as a passenger and cargo vehicle.
Can you get leather seats in the Trax?
Leatherette seating is available on the Premier trim, offering a more premium feel.
Is the Chevy Trax a good car for long drives?
While comfortable and efficient, the Trax is better suited for city driving. For long road trips, its small engine may feel underpowered with a full load.