by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 08/07/2024
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax RS makes an immediate impression with its bold and aggressive design. We were impressed when we first drove the Trax RS earlier this year. The entire office loved it then, and after spending a week with it again, we are convinced there isn't a better new car value on the market than the Trax RS. The RS trim (ours is technically a 2RS) features a distinctive front fascia with a blacked-out grille, sharp LED headlights, and prominent RS badging that sets it apart from the standard Trax. The sleek, aerodynamic lines give the Trax RS a dynamic presence, while the sporty 19-inch alloy wheels (2RS upgrade) and black roof rails enhance its athletic stance.
From the side, the Trax RS showcases a balanced profile with muscular wheel arches and a rising beltline that adds a sense of motion even when stationary. The 2RS package gets more aggressive black trim along the rocker panels, which gives the vehicle a more aggressive appearance, as well as l. The rear end is equally striking, with LED taillights, a subtle spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets that hint at the SUV’s performance capabilities. Overall, the 2025 Trax RS is a visually appealing compact SUV that exudes confidence and style.
Step inside the 2025 Trax RS, and you’ll find an interior that blends comfort with functionality. The RS trim comes with exclusive features such as red accent stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and gear shifter, adding a sporty touch to the cabin. The seats themselves are well-bolstered and supportive, ensuring comfort during long drives. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable with lumbar support, allowing for a tailored driving position.
The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with a 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and the 2RS gets an 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an upgrade over the 1RS package's 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to stay connected on the go. Additionally, the Trax 2RS offers a premium 6-speaker sound system, providing crisp and clear audio for an enhanced driving experience.
Cargo space is ample for a compact SUV, with 18.7 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and up to 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The rear seats also feature a 60/40 split-folding design, adding to the Trax’s versatility. Whether you’re loading groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend getaway, the Trax RS easily accommodates it.
Under the hood, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax RS is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the front wheels. While these numbers might not seem particularly high, the turbocharged engine provides a surprising amount of low-end torque, making the Trax RS feel lively and responsive in city driving. We took it on a four-hour road trip and had no issues merging on the highway or keeping up with Texas traffic. Fuel efficiency is another strong suit of the Trax RS, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance drives alike.
The Trax 2RS also features a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling and ride comfort. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The compact dimensions of the Trax RS make it easy to maneuver through tight city streets and crowded parking lots, while the raised ride height offers a commanding view of the road.
One of the standout aspects of the 2025 Chevrolet Trax RS is its engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension make the Trax RS a fun-to-drive compact SUV. Acceleration is brisk, and the engine delivers a satisfying growl when pushed hard. The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responds quickly to throttle inputs, ensuring you’re always in the right gear.
The Trax RS feels nimble and agile in city driving, easily darting through traffic and navigating tight corners. The suspension balances comfort and sportiness, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure during spirited driving. The Trax RS is stable and composed on the highway, with minimal wind and road noise intruding into the cabin.
The brakes are strong and provide good stopping power, giving you confidence in emergency situations. The steering, while not overly sporty, is direct and responsive, making the Trax RS a pleasure to drive on twisty roads. Overall, the driving dynamics of the Trax RS set it apart from many of its competitors in the compact SUV segment.
Chevrolet has equipped the 2025 Trax RS with a host of advanced technology features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The Trax RS also offers various driver-assistance features as part of Chevrolet’s Safety Assist package. This includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assistance with lane departure warning, and a very good backup camera. These features provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind, particularly in busy urban environments.
For added convenience, the Trax 2RS includes remote start, keyless entry, and push-button start, allowing you to get on the road quickly and effortlessly. The available OnStar system provides additional security with features like automatic crash response, stolen vehicle assistance, and turn-by-turn navigation.
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax RS is designed with practicality in mind, making it a versatile choice for many drivers. The compact size and tight turning radius make it ideal for city dwellers who must navigate crowded streets and find parking in tight spots. The raised ride height provides excellent visibility, allowing you to see over traffic and spot potential hazards early.
The Trax RS’s interior is thoughtfully designed with plenty of storage compartments, including a spacious glovebox, door pockets, and a center console bin. The rear seats are comfortable and offer ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers, making it a practical choice for families or carpooling. The 2RS trim has a black leather interior with red accents, heated seats, and Active Noise Cancellation, making the cabin comfortable and inviting.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Trax RS’s roof rails can accommodate a variety of accessories, such as bike racks or roof boxes, adding to its versatility. The available all-wheel-drive system (although not offered in the RS trim) enhances traction and stability, making the Trax capable of handling light off-road adventures or inclement weather conditions.
Chevrolet has positioned the 2025 Trax RS as an attractive option in the competitive compact SUV market. With a starting price of around $24,000, the Trax RS offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and features at a reasonable price point. When compared to rivals like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Hyundai Kona, the Trax RS holds its own in terms of value and overall package.
The 2RS trim adds a host of desirable features, including the sporty exterior styling, premium interior touches, and advanced technology, making it a worthwhile upgrade over the base model. Chevrolet’s reputation for reliability and the availability of a comprehensive warranty further enhances the Trax RS’s value proposition. A fully loaded version of the 2RS comes in under $29,000, which is impressive in today's car market.
Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a weekend getaway, or simply running daily errands, the Trax RS is equipped to handle it all with confidence and flair. Chevrolet has successfully reinvented the Trax with the 2025 model, and the 2RS trim takes it a step further by adding a touch of sportiness and excitement to the mix. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that offers a dynamic driving experience without compromising on practicality, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax RS deserves a spot on your shortlist.
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