Is Chevy Trax All Wheel Drive? AWD Options Explained

If you’re considering the Chevy Trax for your next vehicle you might be wondering about its all-wheel drive capabilities. Knowing whether this compact SUV offers all-wheel drive can help you decide if it fits your driving needs especially in varying weather conditions or rough terrains.

The Chevy Trax is designed to provide versatility and confidence on the road but understanding its drivetrain options is key. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading off the beaten path you’ll want to know if the Trax can deliver the traction and stability you’re looking for. Let’s explore what the Chevy Trax offers in terms of all-wheel drive and how it impacts your driving experience.

Overview of the Chevy Trax

The Chevy Trax offers a compact SUV experience with a focus on urban agility and available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction. Understanding its key features and trim options clarifies how it suits different driving needs.

Key Features and Specifications

You find the Chevy Trax equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth shifting. The Trax offers front-wheel drive standard, with an all-wheel drive option available on certain trims. Fuel economy reaches an estimated 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for front-wheel drive versions. Safety includes rear vision cameras, teen driver technology, and available advanced driver-assistance systems like lane keep assist and forward collision alert.

Trim Levels and Variants

You select from three main trims: LS, LT, and Premier. The LS serves as the base model with essential features and front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is unavailable on this trim. The LT trim unlocks more comfort and connectivity options, such as the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system and Wi-Fi hotspot, and offers an all-wheel drive option. The Premier trim maximizes tech and luxury features, including leather-appointed seats and a premium audio system, combined with available all-wheel drive to enhance driving confidence in diverse conditions.

Understanding Chevy Trax Drivetrain Options

Knowing the drivetrain options of the Chevy Trax helps you choose the right model for your driving needs. The Trax offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations that affect performance and handling.

Front-Wheel Drive vs. All-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive (FWD) in the Chevy Trax powers the front wheels only. It provides better fuel economy, with an estimated 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. FWD suits urban driving and mild weather conditions, delivering steady traction on paved roads.

All-wheel drive (AWD) distributes power to all four wheels when needed. This enhances traction and stability, especially in rain, snow, or uneven terrain. AWD improves handling during cornering and increases confidence on slippery surfaces. The AWD system in the Trax engages automatically, working without driver intervention.

Is Chevy Trax All Wheel Drive Available?

Chevy offers all-wheel drive on select Trax trims. The LT and Premier models include AWD options, making them ideal for drivers facing challenging road conditions. The base LS trim remains front-wheel drive only.

Choosing AWD adds expense but benefits those requiring enhanced control in various climates. If you live in regions with frequent rain, snow, or off-road needs, the Trax AWD trims provide reliable traction and stability without sacrificing compact design and efficiency.

Performance and Handling with All-Wheel Drive

All-wheel drive (AWD) significantly improves the Chevy Trax’s performance and handling, especially in challenging conditions. You experience better traction and stability, enhancing control on slippery roads.

Benefits of AWD in the Chevy Trax

AWD distributes power to all four wheels, which boosts grip during acceleration and cornering. You gain increased confidence on wet, snowy, or uneven surfaces. AWD also helps maintain stability on gravel or dirt roads, making the Trax versatile beyond urban settings. The system reacts automatically, sending power where it’s needed most, so you don’t have to engage it manually. This technology reduces wheel slip, improving safety and control during quick maneuvers or sudden stops.

Fuel Efficiency and AWD Impact

AWD adds weight and mechanical complexity, which slightly lowers fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel drive (FWD) models. The Chevy Trax with AWD achieves approximately 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, contrasting with the FWD’s 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. You sacrifice a small amount of fuel economy for enhanced traction. Choosing AWD makes sense if your driving involves frequent bad weather or rough terrain, as the handling benefits outweigh the minor drop in fuel efficiency.

Comparing Chevy Trax AWD to Competitors

Understanding how the Chevy Trax AWD stacks up against similar subcompact SUVs helps you choose the best vehicle for your driving needs. Comparing AWD performance, fuel economy, and pricing reveals practical insights.

AWD in Similar Subcompact SUVs

Many subcompact SUVs offer AWD options, including the Jeep Renegade, Honda HR-V, and Mazda CX-30. The Trax AWD provides competitive traction and stability with its automatic power distribution system. Jeep Renegade AWD stands out for off-road capability but lags behind the Trax in fuel efficiency, averaging 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Honda HR-V AWD delivers better mileage, roughly 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while offering less power than the Trax’s 1.4-liter turbo engine. Mazda CX-30 AWD offers sporty handling and premium features but comes at a higher price point. Compared to these, the Trax maintains a strong balance of performance, fuel economy, and versatility in urban and light off-road conditions.

Value and Pricing Considerations

Chevy Trax AWD pricing starts lower than many competitors with AWD options, typically ranging from $23,000 to $27,500 depending on the trim. Vehicles like the Honda HR-V AWD and Mazda CX-30 AWD have base prices above $26,000. The Trax’s value lies in its combination of affordable pricing, standard tech features on Premier trim, and a turbocharged engine that delivers responsive performance. Additional costs for AWD add about $1,500 to $2,000 compared to FWD models, aligning with industry standards. Factoring in insurance, maintenance, and fuel expenses, the Trax AWD remains a cost-effective choice for drivers requiring extra traction without sacrificing efficiency or budget.

Conclusion

Choosing the Chevy Trax with AWD gives you added confidence when driving through rain, snow, or uneven terrain. It’s a smart option if you want better traction without jumping to a much pricier SUV. While you might see a slight dip in fuel efficiency, the improved control and safety are worth it for many drivers.

You’ll find the Trax AWD fits well within a reasonable budget, especially compared to other subcompact SUVs offering all-wheel drive. Its blend of performance, technology, and value makes it a practical choice for urban and light off-road adventures alike. If you often face challenging road conditions, the AWD Trax could be the reliable companion you need.