When it comes to affordable compact crossovers, the 2025 Chevy Trax is an incredible option. While we might be biased, it’s hard to argue with the contemporary styling, upgraded technologies and surprising cabin space that came with its latest generational redesign — which just recently kicked off for the 2024 model year. While there are several available trim levels to choose from, today we’re going to look at the differences between two in particular: the base LS level and the top-of-the-line ACTIVE trim. Which budget SUV wins?
Design & Exterior Appeal
The entry-level LS trim level sets the stage for the 2025 Chevy Trax with its minimalist yet stylish design. With 17” wheels and body-colored design cues, the Trax has a modern yet understated aesthetic. If you’re simply looking for a good-looking commuter and don’t need any bells and whistles, the LS should perfectly fit the bill.
Then you have the ACTIV trim on the other end of the spectrum, which elevates both the design and its interior contents. Inspired by the many popular off-road vehicles spreading across the industry, the ACTIV trim has 18” black alloy wheels, a unique grille design, roof rails and several gloss black exterior accents. It has a much sportier and urban appearance, with plenty of visual flair and a more athletic stance.
Interior Comfort & Tech
As we mentioned, the base LS trim is for those who don’t need a lot of extras. It comes with the necessities and a few bonus features, but isn’t packed full of content that you don’t need. The seating features cloth upholstery and manual adjustments and the infotainment system only features an 8” screen. But you will have access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on that system, plus the benefits of Chevy Safety Assist — which includes driver assistance features like lane keep assist, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
If you want your interior to be just as stylish as the exterior and have some extra amenities to boot, then you’ll likely want to upgrade to the ACTIV trim level. The seating is leveled up to Evotex upholstery – which is a durable synthetic leather – and power adjustments, while the infotainment screen gets a bit bigger at 11”. Plus even more features and tech can be found throughout the cabin.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
This is one area where the two vehicles are quite similar, as every Trax model comes powered by the same 1.2L three-cylinder turbocharged engine capable of generating up to 137 horsepower alongside 162 pound-feet of torque. It’s the perfect amount of power for daily city traffic and comfortable highway cruising, regardless of the trim level. The only slight difference between models is that the ACTIV trim has a sport-tuned suspension that subtly improves handling, which might be worth the upgrade if you drive on a lot of winding roads.
Pricing & Value Proposition
The nice thing about these two budget SUVs is that they’re both incredibly affordable. Naturally, the LS trim level is even more budget friendly than the ACTIV, with a difference of $4,000 between base MSRPs. So if affordability is the most important thing to you, and you’re willing to give up some of those extra design cues and features, then the LS is the right model for you.
On the flip side, if you can accommodate the extra cost and are interested in an even more stylish and feature-rich model, then you should certainly consider the ACTIV, as it has plenty to offer. In either case, you can find your new 2025 Chevy Trax right here at Jim Glover Chevrolet today! Check out our online inventory to see what we currently have available, or give us a call to inquire about ordering one to your exact specifications.