What kind of engine does a Chevy Trax have?
The latest US-market Trax uses a small turbocharged gasoline engine: a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3 paired with a CVT. Across generations and regions, engine choices have varied, but the current model line emphasizes a compact turbo setup for efficiency and city driving.
Current engine configuration
Below are the key characteristics of the engine configuration in the newest Trax models available today.
- Engine: 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3
- Fuel delivery: turbocharged gasoline engine (design aligned with GM Ecotec family)
- Transmission: continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Estimated output: around 137 horsepower (varies by market/trim)
In short, the current Trax relies on a small turbocharged engine paired with a CVT to balance performance and efficiency.
Historical engine options
Over its lifespan, the Trax has used different engines depending on generation and market. The most common configurations in earlier years include larger turbocharged fours and, in some markets, naturally aspirated options.
- 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 was a common option in several overseas and earlier US models
- Several markets also offered a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine in the early years
- Transmission options have ranged from traditional automatics to, in later models, a CVT
These variations reflect GM's approach to meeting regional fuel economy, emissions requirements, and market preferences.
Summary
The Chevy Trax today largely uses a compact 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine paired with a CVT, optimized for urban driving. Across its history, engine choices have shifted by generation and market, including larger turbo options and naturally aspirated variants.
