2016 Chevrolet Trax Review: Complete Analysis
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax continues to establish itself as a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment with its blend of practicality, reliability, and everyday usability. This comprehensive review covers every aspect that matters to potential buyers, from performance and interior space to technology features and ownership costs.
What's New for 2016
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax brings several important updates that address customer feedback and maintain its competitive edge:
- Heated seats option
- Enhanced comfort features
- Improved interior quality
Engine and Performance
Engine Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | 0-60 MPH | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 138 hp | 148 lb-ft | 6-speed automatic | 9.0-10.5 seconds | 26/34/29 mpg |
| 1.8L 4-cylinder | 140 hp | 125 lb-ft | 6-speed automatic | 9.0-10.5 seconds | 24/31/27 mpg |
Driving Experience
The 2016 Trax offers quick performance for most driving situations, delivering capable acceleration and confident all-wheel drive traction. The hybrid powertrain transforms the Trax's character significantly, offering exceptional efficiency without compromising capability.
With a curb weight of 3,100-3,300 lbs, the Trax strikes an impressive balance of performance and refinement. The suspension tuning provides a comfortable ride quality that absorbs road imperfections well, making it ideal for daily commuting and family transportation.
Interior Design and Comfort
Seating and Space
| Measurement | Front | Rear |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom | 42.0 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Headroom | 39.2 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room | 57.9 inches | 56.9 inches |
| Hip Room | 55.7 inches | 55.1 inches |
The Trax's interior delivers practical functionality for both front and rear passengers. The 48.4 cu ft of cargo space provides excellent utility for families. Interior materials have been upgraded with soft-touch surfaces and improved fit and finish that enhance the overall quality.
Technology and Features
The 2016 Trax offers a comprehensive suite of modern technology features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity:
- Air conditioning
- AM/FM stereo with CD/MP3
- Cruise control
- Power windows/locks
- Privacy glass
- 4-wheel disc brakes
- Roof rack
- AWD system
- Keyless entry
- AUX input
- USB connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Navigation system (optional)
- Rearview camera
- Heated seats (optional)
Safety Features
The Trax comes equipped with modern safety technology:
- Dual airbags
- Side airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- ABS
- Vehicle Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Rearview camera
Pricing and Value
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax offers excellent value with a starting price of $$21,500. The vehicle provides a solid balance of features, reliability, and ownership costs that typically exceeds similarly priced competitors.
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|
Pros and Cons
✅ What We Like
- Excellent cargo and passenger space
- Solid build quality
- Modern technology features
- Impressive hybrid fuel economy
- User-friendly controls and ergonomics
- Strong dealer network and service
❌ Areas for Improvement
- Some electrical issues
- Transmission concerns
- Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Minor fit and finish concerns
Should You Buy the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
🎯 Who Should Buy
- Families - Require space and practicality
- Value-conscious shoppers - Strong ownership experience
- Those seeking practicality - Everyday usability
- Eco-conscious buyers - Hybrid offers excellent efficiency
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax represents a solid option for buyers seeking space and practicality in the SUV market. Its combination of solid performance and everyday usability continues to make it a top choice in its segment.
💡 Key Takeaway
The 2016 Trax provides family-friendly space with efficiency. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, it excels at the transportation duties that most buyers actually need.
Ownership Experience
Reliability
With a solid reliability rating of 4.2/5, the 2016 Trax provides solid ownership experience. Common issues are typically minor and well-documented, with good long-term reliability for vehicles that are properly maintained.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs for the Trax are reasonable for the segment, thanks to straightforward mechanical design. Regular maintenance intervals and the widespread service availability contribute to reasonable ownership costs.
Resale Value
The Trax provides good resale value, performing well in the used market. This solid resale performance makes it an excellent choice for buyers who plan to trade or sell their vehicle within a few years.
Comparison and Alternatives
The SUV segment offers several strong alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Trax:
Direct Competitors
- Competitor 1 - Alternative option in the segment
- Competitor 2 - Different approach to the category
- Competitor 3 - Value alternative with strong warranty
- Competitor 4 - Premium option with advanced features
Final Verdict
🏆 Overall Rating: 3.6/5 Stars
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax earns our recommendation for buyers seeking space and reliability in the SUV segment.
Best For:
- Families requiring space and practicality
- Value-conscious buyers
- Modern features and technology
- Those prioritizing long-term ownership
Not Ideal For:
- Driving enthusiasts
- Buyers wanting the latest luxury features
- Those needing maximum space
💰 Value Assessment
The 2016 Trax offers good value with its combination of features, performance, and ownership costs. While individual needs vary, the Trax consistently provides good value for its price point in the segment.
Next Steps for Buyers
Test Drive Checklist
- Test both gas and hybrid models to compare performance
- Evaluate rear seat comfort with actual passengers
- Check cargo space with your typical load
- Test the technology interface with your preferences
- Experience the ride quality on your typical driving routes
Negotiation Tips
- Get quotes from multiple dealers for comparison
- Focus on dealer invoice pricing
- Bundle service contracts for peace of mind
- Don't overlook the value of factory incentives
Ready to Buy the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
Get the best deals, insurance quotes, and financing options for your new Chevrolet Trax.
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