Small SUVs, Big Decisions: Chevy Trax vs Toyota Corolla Cross

Subcompact SUVs offer a world of possibilities for a wide range of drivers, from the younger generation to empty nesters to commuters looking for efficiency to those who simply want a fun and functional vehicle to enjoy trips around town and beyond. Within the subcompact category are two options that often go head to head: the 2025 Chevy Trax vs 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Both the Trax and the Corolla Cross are attractive subcompact SUV options, with a focus on practicality, efficiency, and modern technology. Keep reading to learn how the Trax and Corolla Cross compare; then, after we’ve convinced you, reach out to a member of our team to schedule a test drive of the latest Trax!

Affordability

When it comes to choosing your next vehicle, there are many things to consider, the first of which is cost. After all, it’s important to find a vehicle that fits in your budget while still ensuring you make a good investment. As far as affordability goes, the Chevy Trax has a starting MSRP of $20,500, while the Toyota Corolla Cross comes in at $24,035. This price differential allows Trax buyers to upgrade to higher trim levels or add more options while keeping the overall cost modest. It’s also important to note that, despite its low cost, the Trax does not skimp on essential features, being a well-rounded model that appeals to budget-conscious buyers.

According to JD Power, the 2025 Trax also beats out the 2025 Corolla Cross on several key points, including quality, reliability, and driving experience. This information is based on independent and unbiased opinions of verified car owners, and it takes into consideration defects and design flaws, vehicle comfort, functionality, and performance, as well as the ease of model selection. The higher ranking for the Trax not only gives you peace of mind that you’re choosing a vehicle that will consistently get you where you need to go with ease, but it also reassures you that your purchase is a smart one.

Comfort

Beyond knowing you’re making a sound financial decision, you also want to ensure the vehicle you choose provides you with the space you need and is comfortable. The Trax offers a spacious and pleasant interior for both front and rear passengers. In fact, it has more front shoulder room (55.7 inches vs 52.7 inches) and rear legroom (38.7 inches vs 32 inches) than the Corolla Cross, resulting in a more enjoyable ride for all. In addition, the Trax’s design emphasizes user-friendly controls and a clean layout, which improves the entire driving experience.

The Trax also offers an in-dash infotainment system that gives you quick access to your favorite phone apps via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, as well as climate controls that are easy to reach, allowing you to stay focused on the road while adjusting your comfort settings. It also offers a more car-like feel thanks to its driving position and various available amenities to choose from that take the experience to the next level, including the option to add heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, and a sunroof.

When comparing those amenities to the Corolla Cross, you will also find that you can get a phone connection via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as most of the features listed above, depending on the trim you choose. However, the Corolla Cross sits higher off the ground, so you may lose the swift and nimble handling that the Trax offers, not to mention that you can add the amenities you want to the Trax and still spend less than what you would on the Corolla Cross, as mentioned earlier.

Performance

The Trax has a 1.2L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. At first glance, you may think that the Corolla Cross has the edge in this category since it is equipped with a 2.0L inline-4 engine with 169 hp. However, the Trax’s turbocharged engine produces more torque than the Corolla Cross’s 151 lb-ft, making it more responsive in city driving circumstances and able to accelerate faster.

Plus, the Trax has a six-speed automatic transmission compared to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) of the Corolla Cross, which many drivers prefer since it can offer a more engaging driving experience than a CVT, with defined gear shifts and a more pleasing performance feel. The six-speed automatic may also be more durable in the long run, especially under heavy loads or spirited driving, compared to CVTs.

Regarding fuel efficiency, these models have comparable figures, with the 2025 Chevy Trax achieving 28 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway, and the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross slightly ahead at 31 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.

Technology

The 2025 Chevy Trax includes several standard features that keep you and your passengers connected, including an easy-to-use infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless Wi-Fi hotspot. While the Corolla Cross provides similar technological features, the Trax’s intuitive user interface—which includes a driver-facing and responsive touchscreen—improves the user experience. That, along with more space, puts the Trax a step above, especially when planning a road trip with friends and family.

When comparing the two models, you will also find that the Corolla Cross offers a standard eight-inch infotainment screen across all trim levels, while the Trax’s display screen can be upgraded to 11 inches, and it comes standard when choosing the Trax’s top-tier RS trim.

Driver Assistance

Safety is a top priority for both brands, so you can expect to see a long list of standard and available safety features. This is good to know if you’re using the vehicle for everyday travels or if someone else in the family will typically be behind the wheel. For the 2025 Chevy Trax, standard safety features include things like front collision alert, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. The Corolla Cross provides similar safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. While both vehicles are well-equipped in this area, the Trax again seizes the lead as it offers its safety features for less.

Check Out the 2025 Trax Today

Both the 2025 Chevy Trax and the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross offer a wide range of features and a smooth driving experience for drivers looking for a subcompact SUV. However, many drivers find the Trax to be a more appealing option due to its affordability, spacious interior, responsive performance, and user-friendly technology. Ultimately, while the Toyota Corolla Cross is a great challenger with its own advantages, the Trax is a balanced and value-packed subcompact SUV that is hard to pass up.

Our team at McCluskey Chevrolet is well-versed in everything the Trax offers, able to provide you with more help than you might have imagined. We’re excited to show you everything the Trax offers, as well as answer any questions you might have about the trim levels and package options. You can view our inventory online or in person; either way, you will get the same great customer service, as we strive to provide you with a stress- and hassle-free shopping experience. Part of that is also ensuring you get the answers you need to determine which Trax outfit is best for your needs. Once we connect, we can get started right away, helping you find the vehicle that’s best for your driving lifestyle and needs. Visit us today!