Is the Chevy Trax always in AWD?
The Trax is not always in all-wheel drive. It ships with front-wheel drive as the default and offers all-wheel drive as an optional upgrade on most trims.
What you should know about the Trax drivetrain
Understanding the Trax drivetrain involves recognizing how options are typically structured across trims and model years. The key points below outline the general pattern buyers should expect.
- Standard drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) on most Trax models.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is available as an option on higher trims in many model years; availability can vary by year and market, so verify for the specific vehicle.
- The Trax uses an on-demand AWD system that normally operates in FWD and automatically engages the rear wheels when traction loss is detected.
- AWD can improve traction in snow, rain, and slippery surfaces, but it may slightly reduce fuel economy compared with FWD.
- Always check the window sticker or build sheet for the exact drivetrain on the Trax you’re considering, as configurations differ by year and trim.
In short, if AWD is important to you, you’ll typically need to select a higher trim and confirm the drivetrain for the exact year you’re shopping.
How the AWD system works in the Trax
The Trax’s AWD setup is designed to be mostly front-driven and only sends power to the rear wheels when needed. This on-demand system monitors wheel speed and grip, automatically distributing torque to the rear axle to help maintain traction during slippery conditions. It does not operate as a constant four-wheel-drive system, and the degree of torque to the rear wheels varies with driving conditions.
Trims and year-by-year availability
Because Chevrolet updates the Trax across model years and markets, AWD availability can shift. In many generations, AWD is offered as an option on mid- to high-level trims; some years or regions may have more limited availability. Always verify the exact drivetrain on the specific vehicle you’re considering with the dealer or by checking the window sticker.
How to verify AWD on a Trax you’re considering
To confirm whether a particular Trax has AWD, use these steps before you buy or lease:
- Check the window sticker or build sheet for an AWD or All-Wheel Drive designation.
- Look for an AWD badge on the exterior and examine the infotainment or instrument cluster for an AWD indicator when the vehicle is running.
- Ask the dealer to confirm the drivetrain using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and the vehicle’s sale documents.
- Review the owner’s manual or contact Chevy support if you’re unsure about how the AWD system operates on that specific model year.
These steps help ensure you’re getting the drivetrain configuration you want for the Trax you’re considering.
Summary
The Chevy Trax does not come with AWD as a universal standard. While FWD is the common baseline, AWD is available as an option on many trims and model years, with the system designed to engage automatically when traction is needed. Because availability can vary by year and market, always verify the exact drivetrain on the vehicle you’re interested in.
