28 MPG combined is acceptable fuel economy for the 2019 Chevrolet Trax. It’s not going to win any awards, and it doesn’t land the Trax on any lists of hybrid or EV alternatives. But for the right buyer, a city dweller prioritizing maneuverability and parking ease over long-distance comfort, or a first-time car owner on a tight budget, that 28 MPG is a responsible compromise. This is a small, practical crossover first and foremost, not a dedicated fuel-sipper. It is a vehicle designed to navigate congested streets and squeeze into tight spaces while offering adequate cargo space and a slightly elevated driving position.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates put the 2019 Trax at 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure is arguably more crucial to the Trax’s appeal because this vehicle is often used for short commutes, errands, and navigating dense urban environments, where stop-and-go traffic can decimate fuel economy in larger, less nimble vehicles. The 31 MPG highway figure is respectable for a small crossover, enabling reasonable fuel costs on longer trips, even if the Trax isn’t particularly well-suited for extended highway cruising. The small 1.4L turbocharged engine, while adequate for urban driving, needs to work harder to maintain speed at higher speeds, impacting efficiency. These factors can be important when considering TRAX MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Trax is $1,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (the Trax runs perfectly well on regular unleaded), and local fuel prices. The EPA figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles, ensuring prospective buyers can compare the Trax with others in its class and understand the potential economic implications of their purchase. This information is especially valuable when comparing all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

As with any vehicle, the EPA figures are a guideline, not a guarantee. Real-world fuel economy for the 2019 Chevrolet Trax can change based on several factors. Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact MPG. Gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you get closer to, or even exceed, the EPA estimates. Weather conditions, particularly cold temperatures, can also reduce fuel economy, as can the use of accessories like air conditioning. Owners report that the combined MPG is achievable with mindful driving, while others experience slightly lower numbers due to their specific driving patterns.

How it compares

The 2019 Chevrolet Trax is in a competitive segment, and its fuel economy is a key consideration for buyers. For example, the Honda HR-V, another popular subcompact crossover, offers a similar 28 MPG combined with its standard front-wheel drive configuration, but manages a slightly better 34 MPG on the highway on some trims. The Nissan Kicks, known for its fuel efficiency, stands out with an impressive estimated 31 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-3, prioritizing driving dynamics, achieves around 29 MPG combined. While other subcompact SUVs may offer small fuel-economy benefits, remember that real-world driving conditions and feature preferences can impact the final decision. The Trax sometimes offers more discounts and incentives that may offset other vehicles’ slightly superior MPG figures.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.4L turbocharged engine in the Trax benefits from smooth acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to anticipate traffic flow to maintain a consistent pace. The small turbocharger responds readily to throttle inputs, but feather the pedal and build speed gradually. This prevents the engine from working harder than necessary, which directly translates to better fuel economy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially with seasonal temperature changes. A tire pressure monitoring system might alert you to a problem, but it’s still important to check them manually.

Keep the cargo area light. The Trax is already a small vehicle, and adding unnecessary weight will negatively impact its fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and back seats. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, and this applies whether it is stop-and-go city use or longer distance highway driving.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed for efficient restarts, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This is particularly relevant for Trax drivers navigating urban environments with frequent traffic lights and congestion.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. This helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. While not ideal in heavy traffic, cruise control on open stretches of highway can optimize fuel economy and reduce driver effort. Set the cruise control at a reasonable speed to maximize savings and use the right lane!