Does the Chevy Trax have a CVT?
No. The Chevy Trax does not use a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It employs a conventional automatic transmission, typically a six-speed unit, rather than a CVT. This article explains the transmission setup, how it’s paired with the Trax’s engines, and how it has varied by market and year.
What transmission powers the Trax?
In the United States and most major markets, the Trax has consistently paired its engines with a traditional automatic transmission. The automatic is part of GM’s Hydra-Matic family and is designed to balance smooth acceleration with reliable performance. While exact gear counts and tuning can vary by year and engine, a six-speed automatic is the common configuration.
General pattern
The Trax’s transmission setup centers on a conventional automatic rather than a CVT, with the six-speed automatic being the standard pairing for the primary engines used in recent generations.
- Not a CVT: all Trax models sold in major markets use a conventional automatic transmission.
- Typically a six-speed automatic: the most common configuration across generations.
- All-wheel drive variants use the same automatic transmission with torque distribution managed by the drivetrain software.
Conclusion: The Trax’s transmission remains a traditional automatic rather than a CVT in the markets where it is sold.
Market and model-year notes
Transmission offerings can vary by market, year, and trim level. For example, North American Trax models align with a fixed automatic setup, while regional Opel/Vauxhall variants follow a similar automatic pattern. Always check the specific vehicle’s specifications in the window sticker or owner’s manual to confirm the exact transmission for a given year and market.
Regional variations
Across different regions, Chevrolet and its parent company GM have kept the Trax on conventional automatics, though tuning and engine options can differ by market and generation. There is no widely offered CVT option for the Trax in these markets.
- Transmission type consistency: in recent generations, the Trax has not been offered with a CVT in major markets.
- Engine pairing: the six-speed automatic is commonly paired with available engines, depending on year and market.
Conclusion: For shoppers and owners, the expectation should be a traditional automatic transmission rather than a CVT, with market-specific variations generally minimal in modern times.
Why this matters for buyers
A CVT and a traditional automatic behave differently in daily driving. CVTs can offer very smooth acceleration and potential fuel-economy benefits, but they also come with different maintenance considerations and torque handling characteristics. Chevrolet’s Trax sticks with a proven, traditional automatic transmission, providing familiar operation and widely available service options, which many buyers prefer for reliability and ease of maintenance.
Summary
Bottom line: The Chevy Trax does not use a CVT. It is equipped with a conventional six-speed automatic transmission in the markets where it is sold, and this setup has remained consistent across recent generations. For a specific year or regional configuration, consult the official spec sheet or owner’s manual.
What kind of transmission does a Chevy Trax have?
The Chevrolet Trax is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission for recent model years (2024-2025). This is standard across all trims and is paired with a 1.2L turbocharged engine and a front-wheel drive (FWD) system.
- Transmission type: 6-speed automatic
- Engine: 1.2L turbocharged 3-cylinder
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard
What Chevy cars have no CVT transmission?
Chevrolet: The Bolt, Camaro, Corvette, Cruze, Impala, Sonic, Volt, Blazer, Equinox, Tahoe, Suburban, Trailblazer, Traverse, Trax, Colorado and all Silverados are not equipped with CVTs. Chrysler: No modern Chrysler is equipped with a CVT.
Does Chevy Trax use CVT?
Many of Chevy's competitors have opted for a CVT in their crossover models. However, the Trax benefits from a six-speed automatic transmission that offers seamless shifting and accentuates agile handling, which makes it easy for any driver to operate.
What are the negatives of the Chevy Trax?
Cons of the Chevy Trax include the lack of all-wheel drive, potential powertrain issues like transmission shudder or engine problems, and a somewhat underwhelming powertrain for highway driving. Other drawbacks include hard interior plastics and armrests, basic features on some trims, and some owners have experienced issues with the infotainment system.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the Chevrolet Trax: 1mCarnivautoYouTube · Jan 13, 2025
Powertrain and performance
- No all-wheel drive (AWD): All models are front-wheel drive only.
- Engine and transmission issues: Some owners have reported transmission shudder, humming, or growling noises, particularly at speeds between 28 and 53 mph. Other reported issues include turbocharger and fuel injector problems.
- Sluggish highway acceleration: While the engine is adequate for city driving, it can feel sluggish at highway speeds.
- Fuel economy: The real-world combined fuel economy can be lower than advertised estimates.
Interior and features
- Hard materials: The interior uses hard plastics, and some reviewers note that the armrests are uncomfortable.
- Basic features: Higher trims are better equipped, but base models are light on content, and features like a power trunk and rear air vents are not available.
- Rear-seat comfort: The rear seats may lack support and don't have a center armrest or cup holders.
- Awkward controls: Some drivers find the placement of the start/stop button and volume knob to be awkward.
Technology
- Infotainment glitches: Some users have reported that the infotainment system can shut down, freeze, or become unresponsive.
- Glitchy safety features: Electronic safety features have been described as occasionally glitchy.
