2026 Chevrolet Trax 1RS Review: Proof That Budget SUVs Can Be Desirable

Built in Changwon, South Korea and priced at $30,670, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax 1RS is more than an entry-level crossover; it's evidence that Chevrolet has completely rethought its smallest SUV. What was once a forgettable value proposition has evolved into a stylish, well-equipped and genuinely desirable vehicle. With bold RS styling, a modern tech-focused cabin and a driving experience that feels far more sophisticated than its sticker price suggests, the latest Trax redefines expectations. Has Chevrolet created the new benchmark among affordable crossovers? Let's take a closer look.

A Dramatic Exterior Transformation

Finished in Mosaic Black Metallic, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax 1RS demonstrates just how far Chevrolet's smallest crossover has evolved. Compared with the outgoing Trax LS, the base trim of the former generation, the new model presents a dramatically more modern and athletic appearance. Where the older Trax carried a tall, upright silhouette, the 2026 model adopts a lower, longer, and wider stance that gives it greater visual presence. The front fascia is perhaps where the transformation is most apparent. Slim LED lighting elements and a wide grille treatment create a contemporary, almost European-inspired look, replacing the softer, more utilitarian face of the previous generation. Black exterior accents unique to the RS trim blend seamlessly with the paintwork, creating a monochromatic appearance that is considerably more premium.

The transformation is not merely visual. The current-generation model rides on a 2,700 mm (106.3-inch) wheelbase, an increase of 145 mm (5.7 inches) over the model it replaces. Overall length has grown by approximately 280 mm (11.0 inches), reaching 4,536 mm (178.6 inches), while width increases by roughly 51 mm (2.0 inches). These larger dimensions give the Trax a more mature, compact-SUV presence rather than the tall, stubby proportions of its predecessor.

The roofline flows naturally toward the rear, while pronounced character lines along the doors add visual movement. One of the most effective styling elements is the set of 18-inch black-painted machined aluminum wheels, which fill the wheel arches convincingly and elevate the Trax's sporty demeanour. Against the Mosaic Black Metallic finish, the dark wheel design creates a sophisticated, coordinated look that would have been unimaginable on the simpler LS, which rode on 16-inch steel wheels.

At the rear, the Trax 1RS continues its modern theme with sharply styled taillamps, a clean tailgate design, and a subtle roof spoiler that adds a hint of sportiness without appearing excessive. Overall, the 2026 Trax looks less like an affordable subcompact SUV and more like a fashionable compact crossover, with styling that significantly raises its presence in a highly competitive segment.

A More Modern, Spacious Cabin

Step inside the 2026 Chevrolet Trax 1RS and it becomes immediately clear that this is not merely an evolution of the old model, but a complete reimagining. Compared with the previous-generation Trax LS, whose cabin prioritized affordability and functionality, the new Trax delivers a far more contemporary, technology-focused environment.

Curiously, one of the most noticeable reminders of the Trax's value-oriented roots appears before the vehicle even leaves the parking space. While push-button start has become commonplace, the 1RS still requires drivers to insert and turn a conventional key. In 2026, that's becoming a rarity. It's a small detail, but after years of keyless ignition systems proliferating throughout the market, turning a physical key in a brand-new vehicle seems almost strange.

As a 1RS, the cabin receives several sport-inspired touches. Finished in Jet Black and Gray with red accents, the interior projects a youthful and energetic character. The cloth seat trim features distinctive RS detailing, while red accent stitching and contrast elements provide a welcome splash of colour without appearing overly aggressive. Material quality has also improved dramatically. While hard plastics remain present, as expected in an affordable crossover, the textures, switchgear, and overall presentation look considerably more sophisticated. Panel fit and finish appear tighter and more refined than before, helping elevate the cabin's perceived quality.

The dashboard adopts a clean, horizontal layout that visually stretches the cabin and creates a greater sense of width. The 1RS features an 8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a gauge cluster in front of the driver that integrates a small TFT display between the tachometer and speedometer. Physical controls remain for frequently used functions, helping to keep daily operation intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto come standard, removing the need for cables. On that note, both USB-A and USB-C ports are provided, so there's no need to consider which cable to bring for the car; the Trax accommodates both types.

Comfort is another area where the latest Trax makes substantial gains. Heated front seats, standard on the Canadian-market 1RS, provide welcome comfort during harsh winter months, while a heated steering wheel further enhances everyday usability. Front occupants benefit from supportive seating and excellent visibility, while rear passengers enjoy significantly more room thanks to the vehicle's larger footprint. The little ones haven't been forgotten, of course; LATCH ports are indicated on the rear seats, with easy access to them and the rear anchors on the seat back to secure car seats in place.

Cargo capacity is equally impressive. Behind the second row, the 2026 Trax offers 724 litres (25.6 cu ft) of cargo space, compared with 530 litres (18.7 cu ft) in the first-generation Trax. Folding the rear seats expands capacity to 1,531 litres (54.1 cu ft), up from 1,371 litres (48.4 cu ft). That represents a gain of 194 litres (6.9 cu ft) behind the rear seats and 160 litres (5.7 cu ft) with the seats folded, making the new Trax noticeably more practical for families, road trips, and bulkier cargo.

A Small Engine That Gets the Job Done

Under the hood, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax 1RS continues Chevrolet's downsized turbocharged philosophy with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. While the numbers appear modest on paper, the engine delivers its torque low in the rev range, giving the Trax a responsive feel in urban driving. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission; buyers seeking all-wheel drive will need to step up to the Trailblazer. Compared with the older Trax LS and its turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder rated at 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, the new model surrenders 18 horsepower and 15 lb-ft. Yet thanks to a lighter, more modern platform, the latest Trax is noticeably more eager than those figures suggest.

Fuel economy remains one of its strongest assets. Chevrolet rates it at 8.5 L/100 km (27.7 mpg) city, 7.6 L/100 km (30.9 mpg) highway, and 8.1 L/100 km (29.0 mpg) combined. During our mostly urban evaluation, we recorded 9.3 L/100 km (25.3 mpg), a respectable figure considering the amount of stop-and-go traffic involved.

More importantly, the powertrain suits the Trax's mission. The turbocharged three-cylinder gets the crossover to highway speeds in under nine seconds, but this is no hot hatch masquerading as an SUV. Our biggest criticism is directed at the six-speed automatic, which can be slow to downshift and occasionally feels out of its depth; an extra gear or two would likely improve responsiveness and refinement. That said, the rest of the driving experience is surprisingly polished for an entry-level crossover. Steering is light and accurate, making parking maneuvers effortless, while the chassis delivers enough feedback to inspire confidence. Body roll is kept well in check, and the suspension strikes an impressive balance between comfort and composure, giving the Trax a sedan-like character through corners. Combined with competent braking performance, the result is a vehicle miles ahead of the previous-generation Trax.

A Trax Worth Wanting

In the span of a single generation, the Chevrolet Trax has gone from being a vehicle you bought because it was affordable to one you'd genuinely want to own. The 2026 Trax 1RS combines sharp styling, a spacious and thoughtfully designed interior, impressive practicality, and composed road manners into a package that feels far more expensive than its $30,670 price tag suggests. It's not perfect; the six-speed automatic could be more responsive, and the lack of all-wheel drive may deter some buyers. Yet those shortcomings do little to overshadow the scale of the Trax's transformation, making the latest 1RS a compelling entry in the affordable crossover segment.