Chevrolet Trax Named to Car and Driver’s 10Best Trucks

When you see a Chevrolet on a car magazine cover, it’s likely a Corvette, Camaro, an extreme off-road truck, or the latest EV. Chevrolet takes pride in these vehicles and their capabilities, but sometimes, the most challenging engineering and product development task is creating something good at a very affordable price. For a while, it seemed that this challenge was being overlooked. Compact sedans and hatchbacks were disappearing from the product lines of various manufacturers. However, Chevrolet reintroduced the affordable car in the form of the Trax small crossover, and Chevrolet of Spring Valley is proud to announce that the Chevrolet Trax has been named to Car and Driver’s 2025 10Best Trucks list for the second consecutive year. 

As a subcompact crossover, the Trax and its peers are classified as “trucks,” although we understand if you prefer to view this front-wheel drive, long-roofed vehicle as a car. Being on the 10Best list is especially important this year, as Car and Driver has kept a Trax in its long-term fleet for the past six months. That’s ample time for any shortcomings to surface and tarnish the reputation of a previous award winner. Yet, as Car and Driver stated, “But the opposite has happened: It has continued to delight our flinty-eyed staff.” 

They also emphasize that while they appreciate flashy vehicles showcasing impressive performance, they equally value a vehicle that fulfills its intended purpose. They state, “…it’s especially noteworthy if the vehicle’s intended function is to provide basic transportation at an affordable, high-value price point. The Trax is that rarest of things: an inexpensive vehicle that delivers excellence and value with surprising style and grace.” 

They first praise the Trax for its design. “The Trax’s exterior design is fresh and easy on the eyes. Same for the interior, and the accommodations are unexpectedly welcoming.” While they point out that the Trax, like its competitive set, features some hard interior plastics, it is the clever details that stand out. “The circular HVAC vents are artful, the plastic instrument-panel trim subtly patterned.” They also appreciated the contrast piping and soft door panel padding found on the ACTIV model in their long-term fleet. Adults can fit comfortably in the back seat, and the crossover body style provides ample cargo space and accessibility. 

Even the entry-level model is well-equipped inside with standard cruise control and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone compatibility on an 8-inch center touchscreen (increasing to 11 inches on upper trims).  There is also standard Chevy Safety Assist, which includes: 

• Automatic Emergency Braking 
• Forward Collision Alert 
• Front Pedestrian Braking 
• Following Distance Indicator 
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning 
• IntelliBeam auto high beam 

Car and Driver was pleasantly surprised by the small turbocharged 1.2 inline-3 engine that powers all Trax models. “Having a mere 137 horsepower underfoot isn’t the drawback you might assume, thanks to lively throttle response around town “ 

Of course, the Trax’s affordability makes all these things special. Including destination price, the Trax begins at just $21,495. Even the top-range ACTIV and RS models are priced at $25,395, and every trim in the model line delivers more than you expect for the money. 

The Trax is a great choice for the first-time buyer, a vehicle to send your college student off in, or anyone who needs a modern, reliable new car.  Visit Chevrolet of Spring Valley for a Trax test drive because, as Car and Driver conclude their Trax description, “…getting more for less is good. But getting great for less is even better.”