2015 Chevrolet Trax Added As New Compact Crossover SUV for Chevy Lineup

At the 2014 New York International Auto Show, Chevrolet introduced the 2015 Trax, a new compact crossover SUV that slots into the automaker's lineup beneath the existing 5-passenger Equinox. The new 2015 Trax will compete against models such as the Kia Soul and Nissan Juke, according to Chevrolet.

The Chevy Trax is new to U.S. customers, but General Motors has sold 90,000 units of the small crossover in global markets since 2013. The Trax shares its architecture and powertrain with the Buick Encore, making it significantly smaller than the larger Equinox.

A turbocharged, 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is installed in the Trax, producing 138 horsepower at 4,900 rpm and 148 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,850 rpm to 4,900 rpm. A 6-speed automatic transmission with TapShift manual shift control is standard, delivering power to the Trax's front wheels.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional, and with this upgrade Chevy swaps in rear disc brakes in place of the standard rear drums. Unfortunately, AWD adds 403 lbs. to the Trax's 2,805-lb. base curb weight. The independent front and torsion beam rear suspension setup supplies 6.2 in. of ground clearance, 2.5 in. less than a Subaru XV Crosstrek.

Available in 10 different paint colors, the 2015 Chevy Trax is available in LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels. Inside, the instrumentation is inspired by the Sonic compact car, according to Chevrolet, and features an analog tachometer with a digital speedometer. The Trax has lots of storage locations, including a dual glove box design, bins in all four of the door panels, a well under the cargo floor, and a hidden storage drawer under the front passenger's seat.