What to choose between Chevrolet Trax and Buick Envista?

“I saw it Chevrolet Trax and Buick Envista, two models that appeal to me because they offer good space on the board, and a successful design. I prefer the Buick look, but it can get expensive quickly when you add options. What style do you recommend if I want good value for money? »-Louise

Answer

Hi Louise,

First, know that these two cars share the same mechanical components. The displaced 1.2-liter turbo 3-cylinder engine produces 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque for both models. A six-speed automatic transmission is also standard on both cars, which is only offered with front-wheel drive.

The maintenance and general behavior of the two products is very similar. This means that the two cars have the same delay in activating turbocharging. When the turbo is properly positioned, the torque is there during acceleration, although there is a strong torque effect on the steering wheel, surprising for a car with little power. Anyway, the mechanicals are generally adequate for daily commuting, but I’m disappointed that only the 6-speed automatic uses the available power competently, and consumption remains relatively high for both models. In general, in terms of mechanics, it is rather disappointing.

Different

Where the models differ is in style. At Chevrolet, we are inspired by sportiness and power, while at Buick, style is more modern. I personally prefer the Chevrolet, but mainly because its body design allows for more cargo space and better trunk access than the Buick with its lowered rear window. If space isn’t an issue for you, the Buick might do the trick.

On the board, if the Chevrolet is minimal, especially in the RS version, with its contrasting color accents, the Buick emphasizes more style. However, they all keep the same technology features, with an 11-inch screen (except Trax LS and 1RS), with 8-inch instruments. The interface, in both cases, is easy to read and understand, but suffers from the response time that I found be disappointing, which shows the economic condition of the product.

On the road, the Buick Envista is more comfortable than the Chevrolet. First, the suspension is easier, which helps to better absorb potholes on the road. This is especially true for the Touring Sport versions with the “Buick Experience Group” and Avenir, which are equipped with Watts-type rear suspension, which improves road handling. In addition, sound insulation is better learned, which allows for better driving silence. The cacophonous sound of the 3-cylinder engine is therefore well filtered by the Buick. The Chevrolet is a little sportier, however, with its heavier steering and firmer suspension.

Your needs

Since you mention the price-quality ratio, we must talk about the invoice that accompanies these two products. The Chevrolet Trax offers the lowest price with its bare LS version, priced at $24,530. If you are looking for an affordable car, this is your best choice.

But the cards get blurred when we compare the Envista’s entry-level version, called Privileged, to the Chevrolet Trax LT, which is similarly equipped. Buick adds a power driver’s seat, more refined styling and better soundproofing, for less than $1,000 more. I find this additional fee quite reasonable.

In this sense, I think the Buick Envista has an advantage when we consider value for money. If you can choose a version with Watts-type rear suspension, you will benefit from it.