When shopping for a subcompact crossover, you’re likely considering the Chevy Trax, but you’re also probably wondering what else is out there that checks the same boxes.
Analogously sized, comparably priced, and equivalently featured options are plentiful, with the Kia Soul, Buick Envista, Kia Seltos, Chevy Pioneer, and Chevy Groundbreaker coming to mind. But what sets these models apart, and which one is the best fit for you? Let’s take a closer look.
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Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Kia Soul stands out with its practical cargo space, rivaling the Chevy Trax’s 25.6 cubic feet of cargo volume.
- The 2025 Buick Envista boasts a slightly nicer interior, albeit at a higher price point than the Trax.
- The 2025 Kia Seltos offers a sportier style and an available turbo engine, differing from the Trax’s 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine.
- The 2025 Chevy Pioneer provides an AWD option without breaking the bank, similar to the Trax’s available all-wheel drive.
- The 2025 Chevy Groundbreaker offers the same value at a similar price to the Trax, making it a comparable alternative.
Similar Cars
If you’re in the market for a subcompact crossover similar to the Chevy Trax, you’ll want to investigate these options that offer varying strengths.
The 2025 Kia Soul stands out with its practical cargo space, while the 2025 Buick Envista boasts a slightly nicer interior, albeit at a higher price point.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Kia Seltos offers a sportier style and an available turbo engine.
If you’re on a budget, the 2025 Chevy pioneer provides an AWD option without breaking the bank, and the 2025 Chevy Groundbreaker offers the same value at a similar price.
Size and Performance
When exploring alternatives to the Chevy Trax, you’ll want to weigh the physical dimensions and capabilities of each model.
Size matters, especially in tight city spaces.
Compare the specs:
- 2025 Buick Envista: 182.6 inches long, 71.5 inches wide, and 61.3 inches high
- 2025 Kia Soul: 165.2 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 63.5 inches high
- 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross: 175.6 inches long, 71.3 inches wide, and 64.8 inches high
- The Chevy Trax itself has a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds.
Features and Value
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax offers a compelling value proposition, particularly when compared to the Honda HR-V.
You’ll pay $4,400 less for the Trax, which also boasts a better powertrain and more advanced driver assistance features.
The Trax also has a technology edge, with standard wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Only the top HR-V trim gets wireless connectivity, making the Trax a more well-rounded choice.
With its lower price and superior features, the Trax offers a more attractive value package for budget-conscious buyers.
Driving and Comfort
You’ll appreciate the 2024 Chevrolet Trax’s peppy acceleration, thanks to its 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
This combo helps it accelerate from 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds, quicker than the Honda HR-V.
- Trax rides comfortably over bumps and ruts in the road, making it suitable for daily commutes.
- Available all-wheel drive provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
- The Trax handles comparably well to the HR-V, changing direction quickly and predictably.
- While the HR-V is slightly better at shutting out wind and road noise, the Trax still provides a comfortable driving experience, performing analogously to its rival in this regard.
Interior and Cargo Space
You’ll appreciate the Trax’s attractive cabin design, which looks and feels like it belongs in a more expensive car.
The interior space is roomy, providing enough headroom and legroom in the back seat, making it an excellent choice for adults.
With intuitive controls and standard 8-inch or available 11-inch touchscreens, you’ll find it easy to navigate the features and amenities.
Attractive Cabin Design
Slipping into the Trax’s driver’s seat, you’re immediately surrounded by an attractive cabin that looks and feels like one from a more expensive car.
The Chevy Trax’s interior design is a standout feature, making it a great option for those seeking an upscale feel without breaking the bank.
- The controls are laid out intuitively, and the standard 8-inch and available 11-inch touchscreens are big and easy to use.
- The Trax is roomy, offering enough legroom and headroom for adults in the back seat.
- Cargo volume stands at an impressive 25.6 cubic feet, more than almost every other entry in the category.
- Storage throughout the rest of the car isn’t bad, though there’s a lack of cupholders or air vents for rear passengers.
Cabin Looks Expensive
The Chevy Trax’s upscale cabin design translates to an interior that’s both functional and visually appealing.
You’ll notice the attractive cabin looks and feels like one from a more expensive car. The controls are laid out intuitively, and the available 11-inch touchscreens are big and easy to use.
The overall aesthetic is modern and premium, making you feel like you’re getting more than what you paid for.
Roomy Interior Space
Compact crossovers often sacrifice interior space to achieve their diminutive dimensions, yet the Trax subverts this expectation by offering a surprisingly roomy interior, with ample space for passengers and cargo alike.
You’ll appreciate the generous accommodations, including:
- 39.6 inches of rear headroom, ensuring passengers can stretch out
- 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, perfect for weekend getaways
- 48.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, allowing you to haul bulky items with ease
- A 60/40 split-folding rear seats, providing versatility for various cargo configurations
Price Range
You’re in the market for a subcompact SUV, and budget is a top priority.
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax starts at $21,495 for a base LS trim, making it the most affordable option in this segment.
In comparison, the 2025 Buick Envista starts at $28,999, a significant $5,300 more than the Trax.
The 2025 Kia Soul has a starting price under $25,000, but still higher than the Trax.
Trax is a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank.
With its competitive pricing, the Trax is an attractive choice for those on a tight budget.
Conclusion
As you weigh your options, bear in mind that the Chevy Trax is just one piece of a larger puzzle. In the grand tapestry of subcompact crossovers, it’s a solid choice, but not the only one. The Kia Soul’s practicality, Buick Envista’s luxury, and the Kia Seltos’ sportiness all vie for your attention. When the dust settles, the Chevy Trax remains a strong contender, offering a balance of features, value, and performance – a veritable “jack-of-all-trades” in the world of subcompact crossovers.
