MODEL
Chevrolet Trax
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Trax model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Chevrolet Trax we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 88 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 84. 3 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV that has carved out a spot in one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed squarely at budget-conscious urban buyers and first-time SUV shoppers, the Trax competes on value and practicality. Its compact footprint and accessible price point make it a popular choice for younger drivers and city dwellers who want SUV versatility without a premium commitment.
At MotorCaliber, we measure safety, and the Chevrolet Trax across its 2019 to 2025 model years tells a story that is mostly encouraging with a few areas worth watching. The best NHTSA Safety Index score we recorded for this model is 88 out of 100, achieved in the 2022 model year, landing it firmly in the Strong band. That is a respectable result for a subcompact SUV in this price class. The best crash-test star ratings on record are impressive in the frontal and side disciplines, both reaching 5 out of 5 stars, while rollover protection earns a solid but not perfect 4 out of 5 stars. That rollover score is worth noting for a taller, narrow-track subcompact, which is a known geometric challenge for this body style. Across the covered model years, NHTSA records show 3 recalls for the Trax. That is a relatively low recall count across a seven-year span. Owner complaint volume is more notable, with 478 total complaints on file. Within those, NHTSA has logged 36 alleged crashes, 14 alleged fires, and 44 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed incidents, but the fire-related complaint figure deserves attention from prospective buyers. The bottom line is that the Trax earns its strong crash-test marks, but shoppers should review open recalls for their specific model year before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Chevrolet Trax as a practical and unpretentious entry in the subcompact SUV segment, praising its maneuverability and ease of use in urban environments. Most professional assessments position it as a sensible choice for budget-focused buyers while acknowledging that it does not lead the segment in any single dimension. Its recent redesign has drawn more favorable attention than earlier iterations.
- The 2022 Trax earned the highest NHTSA Safety Index score in our covered range at 88 out of 100, making it the benchmark model year for safety-focused shoppers within this generation.
- Frontal and side crash protection both reached 5 out of 5 NHTSA stars in the best-performing year, but rollover protection sits at 4 out of 5 stars, a reminder that the Trax shares the geometric limitations common to tall, narrow subcompact SUVs.
- Only 3 recalls were issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years, which is a low count for a seven-year span. Shoppers should still run their specific VIN through the NHTSA recall database to confirm no open actions remain on their vehicle.
- The 478 owner complaints on file include 14 alleged fire-related incidents. These are unverified allegations, but prospective buyers should review the specific complaint descriptions on NHTSA's website relevant to their target model year before finalizing a purchase.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Chevrolet Trax with 2 recalls.