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Standard Tech
Drivetrain
For drivers in Forest Lake looking for a stylish, city-friendly SUV that doesn’t break the bank, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax and the 2026 Nissan Kicks are likely at the top of your list. These subcompact crossovers are designed to zip through traffic and fit into tight parking spots, but they offer very different experiences once you’re behind the wheel. While the Kicks offers an all-wheel-drive option, the Trax counters with a more spacious interior and a turbocharged punch that makes daily driving more engaging. Morrie’s Forest Lake Chevrolet is here to help you see which small SUV fits your lifestyle.
In the subcompact world, “zippy” is the name of the game. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax is powered by a 1.2L Turbocharged engine that delivers a stout 162 lb-ft of torque. Because it’s turbocharged, that power kicks in much earlier than the Nissan Kicks’ naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, making the Trax feel significantly quicker when merging onto I-35.
While the Nissan Kicks does offer All-Wheel Drive—an attractive feature for Minnesota winters—the Chevy Trax is designed to handle the cold in its own way. The Trax comes standard with an engine block heater, a life-saver for those sub-zero Forest Lake mornings. When paired with a good set of winter tires, the Trax’s planted stance and modern traction control systems provide plenty of confidence for the snowy commute.
Chevy Trax Performance Perks:
Turbocharged Torque: 162 lb-ft provides better “get-up-and-go” than the Kicks’ 140 lb-ft.
6-Speed Automatic: A traditional transmission that avoids the “drone” often associated with the Kicks’ CVT.
Standard Cold-Weather Gear: Every Trax is ready for the North with a standard engine block heater.
If you plan on having adult passengers in the back seat, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax is the clear winner. Chevrolet prioritized passenger volume during the Trax’s recent redesign, resulting in a whopping 38.7 inches of rear legroom. That is nearly four inches more than the Nissan Kicks, turning the back seat from a “kids-only” zone into a comfortable space for your friends or taller teenagers.
Inside, the Trax ACTIV and 2RS trims offer Evotex seating, a premium synthetic leather that is durable and easy to clean—perfect for messy winter boots or muddy hiking gear. While the Kicks offers a slightly larger maximum cargo hold with the seats down, the Trax provides a more balanced cabin that prioritizes “people space” without sacrificing its 54.1 cubic feet of utility.
Interior Comparison:
Chevy Trax Rear Legroom: 38.7 inches (Best-in-class feel).
Nissan Kicks Rear Legroom: 34.5 inches.
Trax Cargo Space: 25.6 cu. ft. (seats up) / 54.1 cu. ft. (max).
Kicks Cargo Space: 30.0 cu. ft. (seats up) / 60.0 cu. ft. (max).
Both SUVs are loaded with technology, but the Chevy Trax makes the high-end stuff more accessible. Most Trax trims come equipped with a stunning 11-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen and a matching 8-inch digital driver information center. Even better, Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard across the board, so you can leave the cords at home.
Nissan’s Kicks does offer a larger 12.3-inch screen on its top-tier trims, but the base models often feel a bit “stripped down” compared to the Trax. Additionally, the Trax offers a built-in Wi-Fi® Hotspot, ensuring your passengers stay connected even when you’re heading out toward the lakes where cell service can be spotty.
Standard Trax Technology:
Chevy Safety Assist: Includes Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and Front Pedestrian Braking.
Active Noise Cancellation: Keeps the cabin quiet by neutralizing road and wind noise.
Teen Driver Technology: A built-in system that helps encourage better driving habits for the youngest members of the family.
The 2026 Nissan Kicks is a solid contender, but if you value rear-seat comfort, turbocharged power, and a cabin that feels a class above its price tag, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax is the SUV for you.
Come see why the Trax is one of the fastest-selling vehicles in our inventory. Visit Morrie’s Forest Lake Chevrolet today to explore our selection of RS and ACTIV models. Contact us online to schedule your test drive and find the perfect Trax for your next adventure!
