Chevrolet Trax vs Lincoln Nautilus

The Trax was launched for the 2015 model year as a no-frills subcompact crossover, designed to serve as basic transportation at an affordable cost. However, the Trax moldered in showrooms without any significant updates until the 2022 model year—when it was discontinued altogether.

But now the Trax is back in totally revamped, second-generation form. It's as big of a reimagining as you'll likely ever see in a car like this. The new Trax is bigger than before, more effort has been put into its styling, and Chevy has added the tech features that have become the norm since the original Trax was launched. Still the entry-level model in Chevy's lineup, the Trax sits below the Chevy Trailblazer, and takes aim at the Hyundai Venue, Kia Soul, and Nissan Kicks, but it was also designed to retain owners of discontinued small cars like the Chevy Cruze, Sonic, and Spark, bridging the gap between car and crossover.

The redesigned 2024 Trax launches in LS, 1RS, LT, the sporty 2RS, and Activ trim levels. We sampled 2RS and Activ Trax models during our first drive on roads around Asheville, North Carolina.

All-wheel drive is now standard and although the Nautilus is no longer offered with a turbocharged V6, Lincoln gives drivers the option of a hybrid powerplant with plenty of driving range. Also new this year is some seriously cool tech including a full-width display and Blue Cruise hands-free driving.

Verdict: Luxurious and laden with value, the new Lincoln Nautilus looks like a compelling option alongside pricier German alternatives. In particular, the available hybrid powertrain and impressive technology makes this luxury two-row crossover a standout in its class.