2026 Trax at a Glance
- ✔ Starting MSRP: $21,600* for the LS, with five trims up to the ACTIV at $25,300*
- ✔ Fuel economy: 30 MPG combined1 from a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder
- ✔ Standard safety: Chevy Safety Assist on every trim
- ✔ Rear legroom: 38.7 inches, among the best in the subcompact class
- ✔ Cargo space: Up to 54 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
- ✔ Awards: MotorTrend scores it 8.2/10 and Consumer Reports names it a Recommended SUV for 2026
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax has become a go-to choice for Waterloo drivers who want a new SUV without stretching the budget. It starts at $21,600* and comes in five trims, but here is the thing: every Trax shares the same engine, the same front-wheel-drive layout, and the same five-seat cabin. The difference is how much style, tech, and comfort you want. Rydell Chevrolet keeps all five on the lot, so you can compare them side by side instead of guessing from a brochure.
How Much Does the 2026 Chevy Trax Cost?
The 2026 Chevy Trax price starts at $21,600* for the LS. The 1RS and LT both start at $23,100*, the 2RS and ACTIV at $25,300*. That is a narrow spread across five trims, which tells you Chevy built this lineup around choice, not upselling.
A 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine produces 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic sends power to the front wheels. It is not a performance SUV, and it does not pretend to be one. What it does deliver is 30 MPG combined1 and a quiet cabin thanks to active noise cancellation.
Top Features at a Glance
- ✔ 30 MPG combined fuel economy1
- ✔ Standard Chevy Safety Assist with available safety technology
- ✔ 11-inch center diagonal touchscreen available
What Are the 2026 Chevy Trax Trim Levels?
Five Trax trim levels are available: LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and ACTIV. Every one uses the same 1.2L turbo engine, front-wheel drive, and five-seat layout. So the real question is not which one is faster. It is which one matches how you actually use your car. Here is how they break down.
2026 Trax Trims and Starting Prices
| Trim | Starting MSRP* | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| LS | $21,600 | Lowest price, simple and capable |
| 1RS | $23,100 | Sporty looks on a budget |
| LT | $23,100 | Daily usability and tech |
| 2RS | $25,300 | Boldest RS styling |
| ACTIV | $25,300 | Rugged, tough-looking design |
LS: Keep It Simple
The LS starts at $21,600*. You still get the 1.2L turbo, Chevy Safety Assist, LED headlights, and active noise cancellation. The wheels are simpler and the screens are smaller. That is the tradeoff. If your goal is getting into a new SUV for the lowest price, the LS is the one.
1RS: Mostly About Style
The 1RS starts at $23,100*. Same engine, same basic Trax, different look. You get 18-inch machined two-tone wheels, RS badging, black bowtie emblems, a different grille, and red interior accents. Pick the 1RS if you want a sportier appearance without paying 2RS money.
LT: The Smart Middle Ground
The LT also starts at $23,100*, but Chevy spent the money differently. Instead of exterior styling, you get an 11-inch center touchscreen, an 8-inch Driver Information Center, remote start, and automatic climate control. Those are things you use every day. For most buyers, the LT is the trim to start with.
2RS: More Aggressive, Same Power
The 2RS starts at $25,300*. Think of it as the full RS treatment: 19-inch wheels, RS badging, black exterior details, and more red accents inside. But do not confuse the sporty look with extra performance. The 2RS uses the same 137-horsepower engine as every other Trax. Pick it because you love the styling.
ACTIV: Rugged Look, Different Vibe
The ACTIV also starts at $25,300*. Same price as the 2RS, very different personality. You get 18-inch black-painted wheels, unique grille details, ACTIV badging, and a more rugged overall look. Here is the important part: the Trax does not offer all-wheel drive on any trim. So do not buy the ACTIV thinking it turns the Trax into a trail-ready SUV. Pick it if you prefer the tougher styling.
What Does Every 2026 Trax Give You?
No matter which trim you choose, the basic formula stays the same. You get 137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft of torque, front-wheel drive, seating for five, and about 54 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with the 60/40 split-folding rear seat down. Rear legroom measures 38.7 inches, which is near the top of the subcompact class and enough for adults in the back seat.
Every Trax also comes with Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of six standard safety technologies that includes automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, and IntelliBeam high-beam assist. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard too. One thing to know before you buy: the Trax is not rated for towing. If towing matters, a different Chevy model will serve you better.
What Technology Comes in the 2026 Trax?
Base LS and 1RS trims come with an 8-inch touchscreen. The LT and above step up to an 11-inch touchscreen with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board.
Available upgrades include wireless phone charging, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The available Driver Confidence Package adds blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control on select trims.
What Awards Has the 2026 Trax Earned?
MotorTrend scores the Trax an 8.2 out of 10. Consumer Reports names it a Recommended SUV for 2026. Kelley Blue Book ranks it #6 in Best Subcompact SUVs, and KBB owners rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars. Car and Driver awarded the Trax a perfect 10 out of 10 and a spot on their 10Best list, ranking it first among subcompact SUVs. Those are strong marks for a vehicle at this price point.
What Is New for the 2026 Trax?
New exterior colors for 2026 include White Sands and Apex Red. The Trax draws clear design inspiration from the larger Chevy Blazer, which gives it curb appeal well above its price point. Standard LED headlights and available 18-inch wheels round out the look. The five-trim structure carries over, as does the 1.2L turbo engine and front-wheel-drive layout.
Why Buy Your Trax at Rydell Chevrolet in Waterloo?
Rydell Chevrolet keeps all five Trax trims on the lot so you can put them next to each other and see what actually changes. Sit in an LS, then an LT. Look at the screens. Check the wheels on the 2RS and ACTIV. Then ask yourself a simple question: would I notice this upgrade every day?
Whether you are in Cedar Falls, Evansdale, or coming in from Waverly, the drive to 1325 E San Marnan Dr is worth it. Stop in for a test drive and get real answers instead of guessing from spec sheets.
FAQ
How much does the 2026 Chevy Trax cost?
The 2026 Chevy Trax starts at $21,600* for the LS trim. The lineup includes the 1RS at $23,100*, LT at $23,100*, 2RS at $25,300*, and ACTIV at $25,300*.
Does the 2026 Chevy Trax have all-wheel drive?
No. Every 2026 Trax comes with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is not offered on any trim.
What kind of fuel economy does the 2026 Trax get?
The 2026 Chevy Trax is EPA-estimated at 28 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 30 MPG combined.1
Can the 2026 Chevy Trax tow a trailer?
No. The 2026 Trax is not rated for towing. If towing matters for your lifestyle, a different Chevrolet model will serve you better.
Which 2026 Trax trim has the most cargo space?
All Trax trims offer the same cargo capacity, around 54 cubic feet with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats down and 25.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
What safety features come standard on the 2026 Trax?
Every 2026 Trax includes Chevy Safety Assist, which bundles automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, and IntelliBeam high-beam assist.
Rydell Chevrolet
Address: 1325 E San Marnan Dr, Waterloo, IA 50702
Sales Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Phone: (319) 552-5594
*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.
1EPA-estimated 28 MPG city/32 highway/30 combined.