Does the Trax have four-wheel drive?
3 Answers
The Trax does not have four-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive systems used in vehicles are divided into full-time four-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, and on-demand four-wheel drive. Both full-time four-wheel drive and on-demand four-wheel drive are primarily front-wheel-drive-based systems, while part-time four-wheel drive is equipped on some off-road models. Urban SUVs are equipped with on-demand four-wheel drive systems. Under normal driving conditions, the vehicle still uses two-wheel drive, and the four-wheel drive system automatically switches between two-wheel drive mode and four-wheel drive mode based on specific driving conditions. In terms of power, this car offers two powertrain options: a 1.0T and a 1.3T turbocharged engine. The 1.0T engine has a maximum power of 92 kW and a maximum torque of 180 Nm, while the 1.3T engine has a maximum power of 121 kW and a maximum torque of 240 Nm. The Trax's body dimensions are 4255mm in length, 1776mm in width, and 1675mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2555mm.
I previously drove a Chevrolet Trax, which in China is mostly available in front-wheel-drive versions, and I haven't heard of any four-wheel-drive models. The Trax is positioned as a compact urban SUV, primarily targeting daily commuting and fuel efficiency. Adding four-wheel drive would increase weight and fuel consumption, which isn't necessary for most people. If you're planning to drive on mountain roads or muddy terrain, this car might not be the best choice, as its power is delivered only through the front wheels, and the tires can easily slip in snowy conditions. A friend of mine found it a bit challenging to drive on slippery surfaces, especially during winter in northern regions. If off-road performance is a priority for you, I'd recommend looking at other brands like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, which offer optional four-wheel drive. However, the Trax's strengths lie in its affordable price, nimble handling, and convenience for city parking—it's mainly a practical choice.
As someone who frequently researches cars, I think it's quite common for the Trax to lack four-wheel drive, as most small SUVs are designed this way. There are several types of four-wheel drive systems, and full-time four-wheel drive is costly, increasing the vehicle price by about 10%. The Trax itself is positioned as an economical model, and adding four-wheel drive would make it less competitive. The engine has a front transverse layout, making it technically difficult to accommodate a full-time four-wheel drive system. It could only rely on a part-time system, but the manufacturer didn't include it. This isn't a big issue for city driving, as slippery roads can be handled with ESP electronic stability control and better tires. Compared to similar SUVs, like the Hyundai Creta overseas version which offers optional four-wheel drive, the Trax has always followed a simpler approach in the domestic market. Ultimately, this car is positioned as a city commuter tool—fuel-efficient and hassle-free is enough.
