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Holden Trax Review 2015

 

Good points

  • Chunky styling suits the car
  • High driving position with good visibility
  • Simple touchscreen audio system

Needs work

  • Underpowered, even with the turbo
  • LTZ model is expensive
  • Suspension can be crashy over bumps
Holden Trax Review

With their high driving positions and compact dimensions, mini-SUVs have taken off in Australia. In 2013, the Korean-sourced Holden Trax was the first of the little crossovers to launch. Since then, competition has really heated up. The Trax is far from alone: the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and Peugeot 2008 (watch our Peugeot 2008 review) are all out to steal prospective Holden buyers away from the chunky Trax.

Holden have fought back by upgrading the Trax with a turbocharged engine. This has resulted in a punchier, more fun drive—though the Trax’s handling trails the Mazda for verve. Some of our concerns about the average quality of cabin materials haven’t been rectified, leaving the Peugeot with the nicest, most European cabin. The Trax isn’t out for the count, though: its edgy styling is unique and looks great to our eyes. The touchscreen inside links to your smartphone in an innovative way, allowing you to run satellite navigation in even the cheapest model. Plus, Holden’s maintenance is cheap, meaning running costs are temptingly low.

ChasingCars.com.au borrowed this vehicle for our Holden Trax review:

  • 2015 Holden Trax LTZ (top trim), with the 1.4-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder (103kW/200Nm) and six-speed automatic, in Nitrate silver, with black leatherette, priced at $29,990 before on-road costs.
Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)
Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)

Key specs (as tested)

Engine
Capacity
1.4L
Cylinders
4
Induction
Single turbocharger
Power
103kW @ 4900rpm
Torque
200Nm @ 1850rpm
Configuration
Conventional
Power to weight ratio
74kW / tonne
Fuel
Fuel type
Petrol
Fuel capacity
53L
Consumption
6.9L / 100km
Average Range
768km
Drivetrain
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Front wheel drive
Engine configuration
In-line
Gears
6
Dimensions
Length
4278mm
Width
1776mm
Height
1674mm
Unoccupied weight
1390kg
Cargo space seats up
356L
Cargo seats down
785L

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