Chevrolet will be among the first of many brands to bet that Americans are ready for a Euro-sized crossover when the first ones hit showrooms this month. The Trax will join a revitalized small-vehicle lineup that includes the Cruze compact, Sonic subcompact and Spark minicar. They are "the gateway drugs" to the brand, says Steve Majoros, Chevy's marketing director for cars and crossovers. "They bring new people into the franchise."
• Powertrain: Turbocharged 1.4-liter, 4-cylinder, 6-speed automatic transmission
• Technology: 7-inch MyLink infotainment system and 4G LTE connection standard
• Safety: 10 airbags and standard rear-vision camera
• Target: 50,000 sales a year
• Competitors: Nissan Juke, Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3
• Strengths: Rugged styling; $1,500 awd option even on base model
• Weaknesses: Less cargo space than some rivals
• Bottom line: A recent media test drive through the streets of San Diego showed why automakers are scrambling to get small crossovers to the market: The Trax is a versatile, maneuverable ride that offers an SUV-like view of the road for just less than $21,000. It's also roomier than it looks: A fold-flat front passenger seat allows space for an 8-foot surfboard. Chevy will enjoy a short early-mover advantage before rivals inundate the market in the first half of 2015.
| | 2015 Chevy Trax | 2016 Honda HR-V |
| Wheelbase | 100.6 in. | 102.8 in. |
| Length | 168.5 in. | 169.1 in. |
| Width | 69.9 in. | 69.8 in. |
| Height | 65.9 in. | 63.2 in. |
| Curb weight | 3,048 lbs. | N/A |
| Base engine | Turbo 1.4-liter 4-cylinder | 1.8-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 138 @ 4,900 rpm | 138 @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque, lbs.-ft. | 148 @ 1,850 rpm | 127 @ 4,300 rpm |
| EPA mpg | 26 city/34 hwy. | N/A |
| Base price | $20,995* | N/A |
| *Includes shipping |
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