5 Reasons Why You Should Make the 2026 Chevy Trax Your First Car

September 24th, 2026 by

A red 2026 Chevy Trax RS driving in a city.

With the fall upon us and an increasing number of young people returning to college or starting their first jobs, it is time for many to consider getting a vehicle for their daily commute. There are many options out there, but few that provide you with the five things you need to consider when buying your first car: value, efficiency, safety, connectivity, and drivability. The 2026 Chevy Trax is one of the only models to check all the boxes, which is why you should consider making it your first car.

The Trax is a subcompact SUV that Chevy introduced to its lineup during the 2015 model year. Now in its second generation, the 2026 Trax has sporty looks and an affordable price that make it ideal for drivers looking for an efficient way to get to school or work. At DePaula Chevrolet, we are proud to offer first-time buyers the 2026 Trax because we know you are going to love this little model. Our friendly sales team will work with you to help you choose one with the features you want in your vehicle.

#1 – Making Trax for Value

Affordability is one of the key factors when buying your first vehicle. You are going to want to find one that can easily fit into your budget. The 2026 Chevy Trax has a base MSRP of $21,700, making it one of the most affordable vehicles.[a] This will get you behind the wheel of the entry-level LS trim. One of the best things about this model is that you can move up to a top trim like the ACTIV or 2RS for just a little more money. Both trims start at an MSRP of $25,400.[a]

Value means more than price. It also has to do with the low cost of ownership that comes with the 2026 Trax. This model is extremely fuel-efficient and also has low maintenance costs. When it comes time for an oil change on your Trax, you can take it to our dealership’s service center, where our team of trained technicians will keep your Trax in top working order.

#2 – Making Trax for Efficiency

No matter which trim you choose for your 2026 Chevy Trax, you will get the same great performance. This is because Chevy has equipped every 2026 Trax with an efficient 1.2-liter EcoTec turbocharged I-3 gas engine. This comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharger helps boost performance without requiring a larger engine, providing an output of 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.

The results for the Trax are impressive. The front-wheel drive 2026 Trax can get an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined fuel economy. This is helped by the Automatic Stop/Start feature on the powertrain. This will shut down the engine when you come to a stop, and then restart the engine automatically when you take your foot off the brake pedal.

While the Trax won’t win any road races, it still has the speed and acceleration you need for highway driving. The 2026 Trax can go from zero to 60 mph in just 8.8 seconds, which is enough to safely merge onto a busy interstate during rush hour.

A green 2026 Chevy Trax ACTIV parked by a field.

#3 – Making Trax for Safety

Chevy has always been committed to passenger safety, which is why it has equipped the 2026 Trax with a set of standard active and passive safety features. Each model has six airbags that are designed to deploy if you get into a collision. This will help shield you and your passengers from injury.

Nevertheless, the key to vehicle safety is avoiding an accident in the first place. This is why the Trax comes with the standard Chevy Safety Assist suite of active driver assistance features.

If you are getting too close to the vehicle in front of you, the Following Distance Indicator will advise you to give more space. The Forward Collision Alert will sound if the vehicle in front comes to a stop, giving you the ability to take evasive action to avoid a collision. At the same time, the Automatic Emergency Braking system will help bring your Trax to a stop. The Trax also has a Front Pedestrian Braking system that works in a similar fashion, but is designed to help you avoid colliding with a pedestrian or bicyclist.

One of the most common causes of highway accidents is distracted driving. A momentary lapse of concentration can cause you to drift into an adjacent lane. Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning will alert you to the problem, using slight steering adjustments to get you safely back in your lane.

These are just some of the safety features that come standard on the 2026 Trax. There are others, including available upgrades, that will help you avoid getting into an accident when you are driving.

#4 – Making Trax for Connectivity

Staying connected is a necessity in the busy world today. No matter where you go, your friends and colleagues at work are trying to get in touch with you, even when you are driving. This is why it is vital to have a vehicle that allows you to make hands-free calls and texts no matter where you go. Chevy has equipped the 2026 Trax with an advanced infotainment system to keep you connected and entertained wherever you go.

The infotainment system on the Trax features a color touchscreen that makes it easy to access your apps. Depending on your choice of trim, the touchscreen will measure eight inches or 11 inches. Whichever one you choose, you will be able to connect your smartphone using wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can use the system even if you left your charging cables at home.

Once connected, you can make calls and answer texts using voice commands. This will help reduce the distraction often associated with operating a smartphone while driving. The system also supports mapping software with voice instructions, helping guide you to your destination.

You can also stream your favorite music over the Trax’s audio system. Simply use your choice of streaming service or the SiriusXM trial subscription that comes with the vehicle. The Trax also features a Wi-Fi hotspot, so your passengers can stay connected during the ride.

Interior view of a driver and passenger in a 2026 Chevy Trax.

#5 – Making Trax for Drivability

The 2026 Trax is a fun car to drive. Its subcompact design lends itself to maneuverability, with a suspension system that will give you and your passengers a smooth ride. It is also easy to handle and park, making it an ideal choice for on-street parking or use around a college campus.

Chevy has also given the Trax flexible storage space without compromising on its cozy design. The rear liftgate opens to reveal 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space. If you need more, simply fold down the rear seat to accommodate up to 54.1 cubic feet. This will come in handy on your next trip to the mall or when you need to bring along a project to school or work.

The Trax seats up to five passengers, with plenty of legroom front and back. Front row passengers will enjoy 41.9 inches of legroom, while those seated in back get 38.7 inches. This is why it is also a perfect option for the next road trip with your friends.

Make Tracks for the 2026 Chevy Trax

Drivers who are looking for a safe, efficient, and affordable way to get to school and work will love the Trax. This subcompact SUV may be small in size, but it is large in value. This is why the Trax is the right choice for first-time drivers. Stop by today, and we will help you make tracks for your daily drive in a 2026 Chevy Trax!


[a] MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge, and accessories. MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.
Posted in 2026 Chevy Trax