The Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV designed primarily for urban driving, fuel efficiency, and affordability. While it offers practicality and a comfortable ride for daily commuting, it is not built for heavy-duty towing.
Chevy Trax Towing Capacity
| Model Year | Engine | Drivetrain | Maximum Towing Capacity (lbs) | Maximum Towing Capacity (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Chevy Trax | 1.2L Turbo I-3 | FWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2025 Chevy Trax | 1.2L Turbo I-3 | FWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2024 Chevy Trax | 1.2L Turbo I-3 | FWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2023 Chevy Trax | 1.2L Turbo I-3 | FWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2022 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2021 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2020 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2019 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2018 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2017 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2016 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
| 2015 Chevy Trax | 1.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD / AWD | 1,263 lbs | 573 kg |
Although the vehicle can handle light towing tasks, many manufacturers recommend limiting trailer use because the Trax is mainly designed for passenger transport and cargo rather than pulling large loads. Still, it can tow small trailers and lightweight recreational equipment when used responsibly.
Related Chevy Colorado Towing Capacity(Models 2004 to 2026)
Chevy Trax Engine and Towing Performance
First Generation (2015–2022)
The first generation of the Chevy Trax was equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces about 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
While the engine provides enough power for city driving and highway cruising, it is not engineered for pulling heavy loads. This is why the towing capacity remains limited to around 1,263 pounds.
Common light-duty towing uses include small utility trailers, lightweight camping trailers, and small recreational equipment.
Second Generation (2023–2026)
The redesigned Chevy Trax introduced in 2023 uses a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces around 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
Even though torque increased slightly compared to the previous generation, the overall design still prioritizes efficiency and urban driving. For this reason, the towing capacity remains approximately 1,263 pounds.
Another notable change is that newer models are offered primarily with front-wheel drive, focusing on simplicity and fuel economy.
What Can a Chevy Trax Tow?
Because of its modest towing capacity, the Chevy Trax is best suited for very light trailers and small recreational loads.
Examples of items it may tow include:
- Small utility trailers
- Lightweight cargo trailers
- Jet ski trailers
- Small motorcycle trailers
- Bike racks and cargo carriers
Heavier trailers, such as large campers, boats, or car haulers, exceed the safe towing limit of the Trax.
Important Towing Considerations
If you plan to tow with a Chevy Trax, several important factors should be kept in mind.
Use the Correct Hitch
A Class I trailer hitch is typically recommended for subcompact SUVs like the Trax because it is designed for vehicles with lower towing capacities.
Maintain Proper Tongue Weight
The tongue weight should generally be about 10 percent of the trailer’s total weight, which means it should stay under roughly 125 pounds for the Trax.
Consider Total Vehicle Load
The total load your vehicle carries includes passengers, cargo inside the vehicle, and the trailer weight. Exceeding the combined limit can affect braking performance and vehicle stability.
Drive Carefully
When towing with a small crossover SUV, drivers should accelerate slowly, maintain a safe braking distance, and avoid steep hills whenever possible.
Why the Chevy Trax Has Limited Towing Capacity
Several design factors contribute to the Trax’s relatively low towing capability.
Small Engine
The turbocharged engines in the Trax are designed primarily for fuel efficiency rather than heavy pulling power.
Lightweight Vehicle Structure
The vehicle’s lightweight design improves efficiency and handling but does not provide the strength needed for heavy-duty towing.
Transmission Design
The automatic transmission is optimized for smooth daily driving instead of handling heavy trailer loads.
Cooling System Limitations
Vehicles built for towing often include larger cooling systems to manage engine and transmission heat. The Trax’s cooling system is sized for normal driving conditions.
Comparison With Similar SUVs
VehicleMaximum Towing Capacity
| Vehicle | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Chevy Trax | 1,263 lbs |
| Honda HR-V | 1,760 lbs |
| Subaru Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs |
| Toyota RAV4 | up to 3,500 lbs |
| Chevy Equinox | up to 3,500 lbs |
Larger compact SUVs typically offer much higher towing capacities than subcompact crossovers like the Trax.
FAQs
Can you pull a camper with a Chevy Trax?
Yes, a Chevrolet Trax can pull a very small and lightweight camper, but it must stay within the vehicle’s towing capacity of about 1,263 lbs (573 kg). Only ultra-light campers, such as small teardrop or micro campers, are suitable. Larger travel trailers and RVs are too heavy for the Trax and should not be towed with it.
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Chevy Trax?
Yes, you can install an aftermarket trailer hitch on a Chevrolet Trax. Most models do not come with a factory tow package, so the hitch and wiring harness are usually installed separately. A hitch can also be used for accessories such as bike racks or cargo carriers, even if you do not plan to tow a trailer.
Which is better, Subaru Crosstrek or Chevy Trax?
The Subaru Crosstrek is generally better for off-road capability and towing, while the Chevrolet Trax is better for city driving and affordability. The Crosstrek offers standard all-wheel drive and higher towing capacity, whereas the Trax focuses on fuel efficiency, comfort, and lower purchase cost. The better option depends on whether you prioritize rugged performance or everyday commuting.
Is the Chevy Trax powerful?
The Chevrolet Trax offers moderate power for a small SUV, but it is not designed as a performance vehicle. Earlier models use a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine producing about 138 horsepower, while newer models use a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with similar horsepower and slightly more torque. This level of power is sufficient for daily commuting and highway driving but not for heavy towing.
How much weight can a Chevy Trax pull?
Most Chevrolet Trax models can tow up to about 1,263 pounds (573 kg) when properly equipped. This makes the vehicle suitable for light trailers, small utility trailers, or jet ski trailers, but it is not intended for hauling large campers or boats.
What year to stay away from Chevy Trax?
There is no single model year that must be completely avoided, but earlier models from 2015 to 2017 sometimes receive more complaints about limited engine power, transmission behavior, and interior quality. Later models improved technology and refinement, especially after the major redesign introduced in 2023, which brought updated styling, features, and improved driving dynamics.
Final Thoughts
The Chevy Trax is a practical and efficient small SUV that excels in urban environments. However, it is not designed for heavy towing. From 2015 through 2026, the vehicle maintains a maximum towing capacity of about 1,263 pounds (573 kg).
This capacity allows the Trax to handle light trailers and small recreational equipment, but drivers who regularly tow heavier loads may benefit from choosing a larger SUV or pickup truck with a higher towing rating.
