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Whats the difference between Chevy Trax RS and Activ?

The Chevrolet Trax is a compact SUV that offers two distinct trim levels - the Trax RS and the Trax Activ. While both models share the same underlying platform, they differ in several key areas that cater to different customer preferences. This article will explore the main differences between the Chevy Trax RS and Activ trims to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Trax RS and Activ models feature different exterior styling cues that set them apart. The Trax RS has a more aggressive, sporty appearance with unique front and rear fascias, blacked-out trim, and available 18-inch alloy wheels. In contrast, the Trax Activ has a more rugged, off-road-inspired look with unique front and rear skid plates, roof rails, and available 17-inch all-terrain tires. The Activ's styling is aimed at buyers who want a more adventurous, outdoor-focused SUV, while the RS targets those seeking a more performance-oriented, urban-focused vehicle.

Powertrain and Performance

Both the Trax RS and Activ come standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. However, the Trax RS is available with a six-speed manual transmission, while the Activ is only offered with a six-speed automatic. This gives the RS a more engaging, driver-focused driving experience, while the Activ prioritizes ease of use and fuel efficiency.

Suspension and Ride Quality

The Trax Activ features a slightly raised suspension and all-terrain tires, providing increased ground clearance and a more rugged, off-road-ready setup. This setup, combined with the Activ's unique front and rear skid plates, makes it better equipped to handle light off-road excursions and unpaved surfaces. In contrast, the Trax RS has a more sport-tuned suspension and lower-profile tires, prioritizing on-road handling and responsiveness over off-road capability.

Interior and Technology

The interior and technology features of the Trax RS and Activ are largely similar, with both models offering a range of connectivity and convenience features. However, the Activ may include some unique interior trim and upholstery options that further emphasize its rugged, outdoor-focused personality.

Pricing and Availability

The Trax RS and Activ trims are priced similarly, with the Activ typically carrying a slightly higher MSRP due to its additional off-road-focused features. Both models are widely available at Chevrolet dealerships across the United States.

In summary, the Chevy Trax RS and Activ offer distinct personalities that cater to different types of buyers. The Trax RS is the more performance-oriented, urban-focused model, while the Trax Activ is the more rugged, off-road-ready variant. Carefully considering your driving needs and preferences will help you determine which Trax trim best suits your lifestyle.

What is the best version of the Chevy Trax?

The "best" Chevy Trax model depends on your priorities, but the LT is often recommended for a balance of features and value, while the ACTIV and 2RS trims are best for those who want premium comfort and a sportier look, respectively. If budget is the main concern, the base LS model still includes modern technology and safety features like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Chevy Safety Assist. For 2024 and newer models, the second-generation design is considered more reliable than earlier versions.
This video reviews the 2025 Chevrolet Trax, highlighting its features and value: 59sRedline ReviewsYouTube · May 31, 2025
Best for a balance of features and value

LT: This mid-range trim is recommended by many reviewers for its excellent balance of desirable upgrades and a reasonable price. It includes a larger touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Key features: 11-inch touchscreen, push-button start, and roof rails.

Best for premium comfort and style

ACTIV: This trim is ideal if you want a fully loaded experience with a focus on rugged comfort and a modern design.
Key features: 18-inch black wheels, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable driver's seat, Evotex upholstery, and unique yellow interior accents.
2RS: This trim offers a sporty and dynamic appearance with a focus on a bold look and added comfort.
Key features: 19-inch black machined wheels, red interior accents, a heated and wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, and a sportier design.

Best for budget-conscious buyers

LS: The base model is the most affordable and still comes with a lot of modern tech.
Key features: 8-inch HD color touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Chevy Safety Assist, and an HD rear vision camera.

What to consider when choosing

Second-generation models (2024 and newer): These are generally more reliable than first-generation Trax models, which had more issues.
Technology needs: If you want the most advanced tech, you'll need to look beyond the LS trim to get features like a larger screen, a digital gauge cluster, and extra driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control.
Comfort features: If you want heated seats, a heated steering wheel, or a power-adjustable driver's seat, you will need to choose a higher trim level like the LT, ACTIV, or 2RS.

What is the difference between the different models of the Trax?

The main differences between Chevy Trax models lie in their features, which vary by trim level (LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and ACTIV). Higher trims like the LT and 2RS offer more technology (larger touchscreens, driver information centers) and comfort options (heated seats, heated steering wheels) compared to the entry-level LS, while the 1RS and 2RS trims specifically add sporty, blacked-out styling details.
This video explains the differences between the 2025 Chevrolet Trax 2RS and 1LT trims: 59sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Aug 24, 2025
Key trim differences

LS: The base model with standard features like a wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an 8-inch touchscreen.
1RS: Adds sporty styling with gloss-black trim, RS badging, and 18-inch alloy wheels, based on the LS with the addition of the Convenience Package.
LT: A mid-range trim that builds on the LS with an 11-inch touchscreen, 8-inch driver information center, push-button start, and roof rails. It can be optioned with features like heated seats and wireless charging.
2RS: A higher-end sport trim with features like 19-inch wheels, RS styling, and standard heated front seats and steering wheel. It also includes the 11-inch screen found on the LT.
ACTIV: Focuses on comfort, with features like leatherette seats and additional comfort-focused amenities, plus its own unique styling.

What is the difference between Chevy RS and Activ?

The main difference is that the Activ trim is designed for off-road capability and adventure, while the RS trim is sportier and designed for on-road performance. The Activ features rugged styling, an off-road tuned suspension, and all-terrain tires, whereas the RS includes sporty elements like a black grille, larger wheels, and red interior accents.
Chevrolet Activ (Adventure/Off-road)

Exterior: Rugged design with features like roof rails and unique bumpers, often including a functional skid plate.
Suspension: Tuned for off-road use, providing a more comfortable ride on rougher terrain.
Tires: All-terrain tires for better grip on unpaved surfaces.
Interior: Focuses on a rugged or premium comfort-oriented design.

Chevrolet RS (Sporty/Performance)

Exterior: Sporty look with features like a unique grille, sport-tuned suspension, and larger wheels, often with black accents.
Suspension: Tuned for a more dynamic and agile on-road driving experience.
Tires: Designed for on-road performance.
Interior: Sporty design with elements like red stitching, red accents, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

You can watch this video to compare the designs of the 2024 Chevy Trax RS and ACTIV: 51sMOTROLIXYouTube · Mar 7, 2024
Which trim should you choose?

Choose Activ if your lifestyle involves off-road adventures, dirt roads, and you prioritize a more rugged vehicle.
Choose RS if you prefer a sportier aesthetic and a more performance-oriented feel for daily city driving.

What is the difference between the Chevy Trax Activ and 2RS?

The main difference between the Chevy Trax 2RS and ACTIV is styling, with the 2RS having a sporty, urban look and the ACTIV having a rugged, off-road-inspired appearance. While both share the same engine and core features, the 2RS includes sporty details like red accents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, while the ACTIV features titanium-colored accents, an 8-way power driver's seat, and more rugged wheels.

You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the design differences: 46sMOTROLIXYouTube · Mar 7, 2024
Chevy Trax 2RS

Exterior: Sporty design with 19-inch machined aluminum wheels, RS badging, red exterior accents, and a gloss-black mesh grille.
Interior: Sports a race-inspired, flat-bottom steering wheel, and red stitching or accents on the seats and dashboard.
Driver's Seat: Manual seat adjustment.

Chevy Trax ACTIV

Exterior: Rugged design with 18-inch black-painted wheels, titanium chrome exterior accents, and a more utilitarian aesthetic.
Interior: Features yellow interior trim and a standard steering wheel.
Driver's Seat: 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with two-way power lumbar support.

This video shows the differences in the interior design and the power driver's seat: 1mSal LombardinoYouTube · Nov 6, 2024
What they share

Both trims have the same starting price.
They share the same turbocharged 1.2L 3-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive.
Both come with a 11-inch diagonal color touchscreen, heated front seats, and heated steering wheel.
Both include Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of standard safety and driver assistance features.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.