The 2017 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L gets 28 MPG combined, which is reasonable efficiency. This compact crossover is built to be an affordable and maneuverable urban runabout, not to set fuel economy records. The target buyer is focused on value, ease of parking, and available all-wheel drive, not hypermiling. Fuel economy is important, but it is just one factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Trax are 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the constant stop-and-go of urban environments, where the small, turbocharged engine works harder to accelerate the vehicle. On the open road, the Trax performs better. The turbocharger contributes to passing power, and the six-speed automatic transmission enables efficient cruising at highway speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet Trax at $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway miles driven. Premium fuel is not required, so using regular unleaded will keep costs down.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark. Real-world MPG for the 2017 Trax will generally be between 23 MPG and 31 MPG depending on driving style, traffic, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce fuel economy, as will carrying extra weight. Maintaining proper tire inflation and performing regular maintenance help achieve good fuel efficiency.

The Trax’s tall, upright design is not aerodynamic, so expect a greater MPG drop at higher speeds than with a sedan with a similar engine.

How it compares

The 2017 Trax is in the middle of the subcompact crossover segment for fuel economy. A Honda HR-V gets a combined EPA rating of 31 MPG. The Mazda CX-3, which has good driving dynamics, gets around 29 MPG combined. The Nissan Kicks, a less powerful but lighter competitor, gets 33 MPG combined. The Trax’s affordability, available all-wheel drive, and practicality make it good for buyers who value overall value over MPG. The Jeep Renegade gets similar or slightly lower fuel economy; around 27 MPG combined with its 1.4L turbo engine.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The small turbo engine in the Trax responds well to smooth acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, as these make the turbocharger work harder and use more fuel. Smooth acceleration helps the engine operate efficiently and maintain good MPG.

City drivers, who are many Trax buyers, should expect lower fuel economy than the EPA estimates. Reduce idling time because it consumes fuel without covering distance. When stopped for more than a minute, turning off the engine is more efficient.

Check and maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. The sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb shows the recommended tire pressure.

Avoid carrying weight in the vehicle. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s work and reduces fuel economy. Remove items from the trunk or rear seats that are not needed for driving. Consider browsing TRAX MPG across all years to see how different generations compare.

Consider your route. Avoiding routes with traffic can improve fuel economy. Routes with fewer stop signs and traffic lights can increase efficiency even more. Browse all Chevrolet fuel economy data for more model comparisons.