The new Chevrolet Trax continues to build on its reputation as an accessible and practical compact SUV for urban adventurers and everyday drivers alike. When it comes to transmission options for the latest model year, Chevrolet has taken a straightforward approach across the entire Trax lineup. 

Standard Transmission Across All Trims

The Chevrolet Trax features a single transmission option across its entire lineup:

• 6-speed automatic transmission standard on all trim levels
• Front-wheel drive configuration on all models
• No manual transmission option available
• No continuously variable transmission (CVT) option available
• No all-wheel drive transmission variant offered

Unlike some competitors that offer multiple transmission choices, Chevrolet has streamlined the Trax lineup with a single, refined 6-speed automatic transmission. The standard 1.2L ECOTEC turbocharged inline-3 engine pairs with this traditional automatic transmission and delivers 137 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 162 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 rpm.

Transmission Performance Characteristics

The 6-speed automatic transmission in the Trax offers several notable performance characteristics:

Smooth Shifting Experience

The 6-speed automatic transmission in the Trax is engineered to provide:

• Smooth, seamless shifts between gears
• Responsive downshifts when acceleration is needed
• Refined operation at highway cruising speeds
• Minimal “hunting” between gears on varying terrains

Unlike continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) found in some competitors, the traditional 6-speed automatic delivers a more engaging driving experience with defined shift points that many drivers prefer.

Fuel Efficiency Balance

The transmission is calibrated to balance performance with fuel efficiency:

• Contributes to the Trax fuel economy ratings of 8.5 L/100 km city, 7.6 L/100 km highway, and 8.1 L/100 km combined
• Optimized gear ratios for urban driving scenarios
• Efficient highway cruising in higher gears
• Quick downshifts when passing power is needed

The 50-litre fuel tank combined with this efficient transmission provides solid driving range for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Urban-Friendly Performance

The transmission has been specifically tuned for the urban-focused Trax mission:

• Responsive low-speed operation for city driving
• Smooth acceleration from stops at traffic lights
• Balanced power delivery for merging onto highways
• Refined performance across various driving conditions

Transmission Features Across Trim Levels

All trim levels feature the same 6-speed automatic transmission, but each one implements it differently and pairs it with unique supporting features.

1RS Trim Transmission Features

The entry-level 1RS trim includes:

• Standard 6-speed automatic transmission
• Basic transmission control interface
• Standard engine and transmission cooling systems
• Traditional PRNDL shifter configuration

LT Trim Transmission Enhancements

The LT trim adds:

• Remote start capability that works with the automatic transmission
• Enhanced electronic control module calibration
• Same 6-speed automatic transmission mechanics

2RS Trim Sporty Transmission Tuning

The sport-oriented 2RS features:

• Sport-tuned transmission shift points for a more engaging driving experience
• Same 6-speed automatic transmission with RS-specific calibration
• Enhanced cooling for more spirited driving
• Distinctive shift feel compared to other trims

ACTIV Trim Transmission Configuration

The adventure-focused ACTIV includes:

• 6-speed automatic with specific calibration for ACTIV trim
• Transmission tuning optimized for varied terrain capability
• Same mechanical components as other trims, with unique software calibration

Transmission Maintenance and Reliability

The 6-speed automatic transmission in the Trax is designed for long-term reliability:

Maintenance Schedule

• Regular transmission fluid checks are recommended
• Transmission fluid and filter changes according to the maintenance schedule
• Simplified maintenance procedures compared to more complex transmission types
• Designed for long-term durability in various climate conditions

Common Owner Questions

Chevrolet has addressed several common questions regarding the Trax transmission:

• Transmission fluid type is specified in the owner’s manual
• Normal break-in period recommended for optimal long-term performance
• Proper towing procedures outlined to protect the transmission
• Diagnostic systems monitor transmission health and alert to potential issues

Driving Experience with the 6-Speed Automatic

The transmission plays a key role in the overall driving experience of the Trax:

Daily Driving Characteristics

• Smooth operation in stop-and-go traffic
• Minimal transmission “hunting” on gentle inclines
• Predictable behaviour that drivers appreciate
• Quiet operation at highway speeds

Performance Situations

• Responsive downshifts when passing power is needed
• Proper gear selection for hill climbing
• Sport mode not offered on any trim level
• Manual shift mode not available on the Trax

Transmission Comparison with Competitors

Unlike some compact SUVs in its class, the Trax sticks with a traditional automatic:

• No continuously variable transmission (CVT) option, which some competitors feature
• No dual-clutch automatic transmission option
• No manual transmission option, which has become increasingly rare in this segment
• No all-wheel drive transmission variant, focusing instead on front-wheel drive efficiency

The 6-speed automatic represents the Chevrolet decision to prioritize proven reliability and a familiar driving experience over newer transmission technologies that might offer marginal efficiency improvements, but potentially at the cost of driving engagement or long-term durability.

Future Transmission Technologies

While the latest model year features only the 6-speed automatic, the compact SUV segment continues to evolve:

• Chevrolet has not announced plans for additional transmission options for the Trax
• No hybrid or electrified variants with different transmission configurations have been announced
• The 6-speed automatic continues to be refined for the specific Trax needs
• No indication of all-wheel drive variants with different transmission configurations in development

2026 Chevrolet Trax: Efficient and Reliable

The Chevrolet Trax offers a single transmission choice – a well-engineered 6-speed automatic that delivers a balanced combination of efficiency, reliability, and driving enjoyment. While some competitors might offer more transmission options, Chevrolet has focused on refining a single proven configuration that meets the needs of the Trax target audience. This approach simplifies the buying process and ensures that every Trax delivers consistent performance across trim levels. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways, the Trax transmission provides smooth, predictable performance that complements its turbocharged engine and compact dimensions.

Questions and Answers About the 2026 Trax Transmission

Why does the 2026 Trax use a 6-speed automatic instead of a CVT like some competitors?

Chevrolet chose to equip this compact SUV with a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission rather than a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to deliver a more engaging driving experience with defined shift points. Many drivers prefer the predictable nature and direct feel of a traditional automatic over the sometimes “rubber-band” effect found in CVTs. Additionally, the 6-speed automatic offers proven reliability and familiarity for drivers transitioning from other vehicles.

Can I get the 2026 Trax with a manual transmission?

No, it does not offer a manual transmission option. All trim levels come exclusively with the 6-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmissions have become increasingly rare in the compact SUV segment as consumer preferences have shifted toward automatic transmissions for their convenience, especially in urban driving.

Does the transmission in the sporty 2RS trim perform differently than in other Trax models?

While the 2RS trim uses the same 6-speed automatic transmission hardware as other models, it features specific calibration that provides slightly sportier shift patterns. This gives the 2RS a more engaging feel during acceleration, with the transmission holding gears slightly longer before upshifting and providing more responsive downshifts when needed for passing or merging.

Is there an all-wheel drive version of the Trax with a different transmission?

No, this SUV is offered exclusively with front-wheel drive across all trim levels. There is no all-wheel-drive variant available with any transmission. This compact SUV is urban-friendly and efficient, with a front-wheel-drive configuration that delivers the best balance of traction, interior space, and fuel economy for its target market.

How does the transmission contribute to the Trax fuel economy ratings?

The 6-speed automatic transmission is specifically calibrated to optimize fuel efficiency while maintaining responsive performance. It achieves this through carefully engineered gear ratios that keep the 1.2L turbocharged engine in its efficiency sweet spot whenever possible. The transmission’s ability to quickly select the appropriate gear for current driving conditions helps this SUV achieve its city, highway, and combined fuel-economy ratings of 8.5 L/100 km, 7.6 L/100 km, and 8.1 L/100 km, respectively.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.