Honda CRV vs. Chevy Trax

Comparison of Honda HRV and Chevy Trax

1. Introduction

Every time people want to buy a car, they might do a comparison on two or more types of the car to make sure the car can reach their satisfaction. They will see the engine model, the exterior design, the interior design, the safety system provided, the price and much more. The cars are Honda HRV and Chevrolet Trax. Honda HRV has an engine capacity of 1800 cc and it starts from the engine to be more a safety car. Honda HRV has an ACE Body Structure that is claimed to be able to shoot down the energy on collision. It also applies G-CON technology and Dual SRS Air bag. Honda HRV gave it a feature that is suitable for urban society that a feature Ultra Seats. This feature is able to provide a relief for the driver when he went up stuck in traffic. Then Chevrolet Trax which has a smaller engine capacity that is 1400 cc. Chevrolet in designing Trax more concerned with aspects of comfort and provided several features. An example is the seat that uses the model Theatre Style for more widespread leg space. Not to forget Chevrolet also has provided a facility called MyLink that can be connected to a smartphone and played music through the car's speakers. (Borkowski & Zawiślak, 2023)

1.1 Overview of Honda HRV

The safety features of Honda HRV are still using the previous Honda product safety features, which are two front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. And then ABS, EBD, BA, and more are like Emergency Stop Signal, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Multi-angle Rearview Camera, and there is an advanced feature Honda ACE. With existing safety features in Honda HRV, it is expected to create a sense of comfort and safe driving for the consumer. Later, this HRV may be assessed for the feasibility of entering the ASEAN NCAP safety standard.

For its own machine, HRV uses the same engine with Honda Jazz and Honda City, which is i-VTEC 1.5 L. With Earth Dreams Technology that creates machines smarter and more efficient. HRV this time uses Drive by Wire, for more details you can see the function of Drive by Wire. Honda HRV uses 2 transmissions, CVT and 6-Speed Manual, but apparently HRV in Indonesia just uses CVT transmission. And there are 3 models of HRV transmission system, which are S with paddle shift, E, and Prestige with the Real Time 4-Wheel Drive. With Checkered Flagship from Honda. HRV fuel consumption is also very economical, which for CVT transmission is 16.4 km/L and for the manual up to 16.8 km/L. So HRV is perfect for those of you who want a car that is efficient in fuel consumption. And certainly, HRV uses a suspension longer than jazz or city, this is so that the car remains comfortable HRV even though using a large ring velg. And HRV adopts the motion of RS Dual Pump AWD, although HRV is not likely to be exploited in off-road, but with some of these features, HRV would be better while driving on a road that is not smooth and slippery.

Move on to the interior, you will be fascinated by the luxurious HRV. Yes, at first glance, it looks like the interior design mimics the Honda CRV and Honda Civic. The display instrument panel uses a combination of analog and digital models. The speedometer uses the analog model, but there is a middle digital screen that contains important information about the car. And there are so many buttons on the steering wheel that can be used for easy operation of this car. And there is a feature ECON button that can be used to increase fuel economy. Speaking of the economic model of HRV, this car is rich in features but remains efficient. There is a touch screen head unit that has been using the Android OS and internet access. And under the head unit, there is automatic AC that can adjust the temperature itself. And there are many features that are pinned HRV in it. It's concluded that the interior HRV is very impressive luxury and remains convenient for users. And certainly, the material used is not to be in doubt. Seen from the use of the black dashboard and front seat trim combined with fabric.

The model, of course, Mr. and Ms. Three lines on the front grille make this car look more modern and aerodynamic. Then there is the projector low-beam lights with elegant and LED daylight-running lights. The presence of HRV looks so gahar when viewed from the front. On the side, there are advanced side mirrors developed with LED turn signals attached to the mirror house. Just imagine if parking the car in a dim place and then turning the signal, people will know whether you want to turn the car left or right. And then, the last of the side view, it has a door handle with a design like a coupe model that is attached to the rear door. This can create a sporty and modern impression. In the back, the design of taillights HRV still has a new model car in general, with a stop lamp that is a combination of a modern model. Higher trim levels of the HRV have an extra roof rails for the bike or roof box.

Honda HRV is a new model. The model of Honda HRV is quite different from other SUV models. The model of HRV can be said to be a combination of a family car with a tough model of SUV. This can be seen from the size of the Honda HRV model, which is not too big, so it looks very fitting for use as a family car. But the model still looks sturdy with ground clearance that is quite high. So you can use this HRV for adventure or traveling, but you still look cool.

1.2 Overview of Chevy Trax

Size-wise, the Trax is larger than the HRV, which can be seen when comparing the interior dimensions of both cars. The Trax has more legroom for both the driver and passengers at the expense of less headroom compared to the HRV. Both cars have rear seats that can be folded down to create more cargo space, but here the Honda HRV excels with its renowned Magic Seat system. The Magic Seat system allows the rear seats to not only fold flat but also allows the seat bottoms to be raised and locked in place against the seat back, creating a more vertical cargo room for higher-level storage. This is a unique feature of the Honda HRV and is not found among its competitors. (Balf & Flynn)

Chevrolet entered the compact crossover market in 2013 with the Trax. Similarly, the Honda HRV is also a front-wheel drive package with the option for all-wheel drive. It is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that drives the front or all four wheels, producing the same power of 138 horsepower. The difference lies in the transmission: Chevrolet uses a 6-speed automatic transmission while Honda uses a CVT. This contributes to better fuel economy for the Honda HRV, estimated at 28km/L compared to 25km/L for the Chevrolet Trax. This theme of similarity or near similarity will be recurring between the two cars, but as always, the devil lies in the details.

2. Performance

On the other hand, Chevy Trax uses the same engine type as the HRV but is trimmed in different ways. The standardized trim is an FWD model with a similar 6-speed automatic transmission. However, the LTZ version AWD is using a manual shift mode with a six-speed automatic transmission and a more powerful AWD system. This series of transmissions may provide more power and a better driving sensation.

The engine and powertrain are fundamentally essential for cars. In this aspect, Honda HRV offers a more powerful engine than the 1.8-liter inline four engines, which can produce 141 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. On the top of the trims are the employments of CVT and an optional AWD. The FWD version of HRV uses the CVT with arguments suitable for a traditional gearbox. However, the AWD models utilize a different CVT, which is more advanced. This CVT features an additional ratio for the gears that are more suitable for off-road use. This combination makes the HRV move efficiently and flawlessly regardless of the road. Ultimately, it takes 10.3 seconds for the HRV to reach a 60 mph speed.

2.1 Engine power and efficiency

As mentioned, both the HR-V and Trax have great fuel economy. Honda's Earth Dreams technology equipped in the HR-V allows for it to have an exceptional fuel economy rate of 28 highway 35 city, results for the AWD model are nearly just as good. Chevy takes the edge on this one simply due to the fact that the AWD Trax poses a 26/31 mpg rating. Both crossovers are very efficient on the pockets and the environment and they both reach good fuel range with the HR-V at 404 city miles/518 highway miles and the Trax at 335 city miles/ 409 highway miles during full-tank mixed driving. Overall, both crossovers are very efficient they're great for college students and people that just want to save some cash whenever they go to the pump.

Both crossovers have I4 engines, the big difference is horsepower. The HR-V comes equipped with a 1.8-liter I4 capable of 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Trax has a turbocharged 1.4-liter I4 that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The deficit of power comes at a cost to the HR-V. Although both crossovers have nearly identical fuel economy (we'll get to that in a second), the HR-V lacks towing capacity. This is simply due to the engine not being able to provide enough power to safely tow up to 1000 lbs.

2.2 Acceleration and top speed

When it comes to the specs on how fast the HRV and Trax can get up to speed, the HRV will once again find itself being the quicker of the two. The HRV can get up to 60 mph in about 7 seconds. As for the Trax, it does 0-60 mph in about 9 seconds. Would this be important for driving in the city and highway? Let's just say that when you are getting onto the highway on a short on-ramp, the HRV will be safely at cruising speed before the on-ramp is over. The Trax may still be merging before it hits 60 mph. In terms of long-term acceleration, both cars are about the same due to their close HP numbers, but the HRV beats the Trax in short-term acceleration. Now onto top speed, the HRV has a top speed of 125 mph. Now this is not limited by the engine HP because the HRV could easily go faster, however 125 mph is a safe speed for this class of car. As for the Trax, its estimated top speed is about 116 mph. Keep in mind that top speed can be based on engine limiters and is not necessarily how fast a car can really go. After reviewing these acceleration and top speed specs, the HRV and Trax are about the same in long-term acceleration, however the HRV is faster for getting up to speed and has a higher top speed. After all, that is what you would expect when you consider that the HRV is based off the same platform as the quicker and sportier Civic. (Kikuta, 2023)

2.3 Handling and maneuverability

Honda HRV is one of the best in class handling cars. The ride is smooth and the handling is controlled and assured. This is due to the fact that it shares the platform with the Honda Fit, one of the most acclaimed handling cars in its class. The suspension is independent at all four corners and ride quality is very comfortable, yet it feels tight, not wobbly and uncontrolled. The steering is precise and confidence inspiring. Maneuverability is one of the key features of this car. Chevy Trax falls short compared to the HRV. The ride is much more rough and bouncy and seems to have a difficult time absorbing imperfections in the road. This is most likely due to the fact that it is built on the same platform as the Encore, so it has a torsion beam rear suspension, thus giving it a less comfortable and less stable ride. The steering is a bit loose, and though it has a relatively small turning circle, it does not feel very confidence inspiring and there's a noticeable delay between when the steering wheel is turned and when the car begins to change direction. In the end, there's no contest; the HRV is vastly superior in the ride, handling, and maneuverability department, which are key features to car buyers looking for this type of vehicle. High profile SUVs are notorious for poor handling and tipiness. These vehicles are simply not utilitarian for the typical city driver, and because both the HRV and the Trax are essentially the same as a typical subcompact car save for the body, it is even more important that these vehicles have good ride and handling. In my opinion, the HRV might be the best handling car in its class, and the Trax is below average for its class.

3. Features and Technology

Moving from infotainment to further on safety features, both vehicles are equipped with standard backup cameras which are now required in the USA for all new vehicles under 10,000 pounds (Eisenstein). That being one of the very few similarities between the safety features of these vehicles. The Chevy Trax consists of 10 standard airbags, Onstar capabilities, and safety features that disable the engine and prevent the vehicle from moving when the vehicle is not properly in 'park' (Chevrolet). In contrast, Honda's safety features seem to be more intertwined with its exterior aesthetics. Features like the vehicles' daytime running headlights, and the HR-V having received a "superior" rating in front crash prevention in testing done by the IIHS association are all relative to the overall safety of the vehicle but do not help the driver in preventing accidents. The HR-V also has an available Honda sensing system which is a more advanced safety package that outlines features such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision mitigation braking (IIHS). For more novice or even young drivers, the Trax may provide easier-to-understand safety features, but for the experienced driver who understands the importance of being proactive in preventing an accident, Honda's safety features could be more appealing.

In the advanced information age that we find ourselves in today, every aspect of life is seemingly influenced by technology. The vehicles we drive are no exception to this new rule. In the not-so-distant past, vehicle technology was limited to the occasional luxury feature, but today almost every newly manufactured vehicle has some form of cutting-edge technology equipped in it. The Honda HR-V and Chevy Trax are no exceptions to this. Both vehicles come equipped with touch screen infotainment systems that are capable of functioning with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, giving drivers and passengers access to information and media from their mobile devices (Chevrolet, Honda). Honda steps slightly ahead in infotainment technology with their display audio touch screen which serves as a control panel for the audio system, and has the capability to show things like incoming text messages and the rearview camera (Honda). With smartphone use responsible for so many accidents today, it is not hard to understand why increased integration of mobile devices into infotainment systems is sought after as a safety feature.

3.1 Infotainment systems 3.2 Safety features 3.3 Connectivity options 3.4 Advanced driver-assistance systems

3.1 Infotainment systems

You can enhance your driving and later sell your car for cash by using a mobile phone navigation mapping application. This is a quicker and more responsive way of using navigation and GPS features for directions. The phone screen is mirrored, and the applications take advantage of the in-dash display rather than the application on the phone. This feature is only available in the HRV in its top-of-the-range VTi-L model. The app requires Apple CarPlay and allows the user to select the apps on their phone through the display audio. This allows the use of app services such as satellite navigation and music streaming with added safety because it's all integrated into the display audio. Between the models of both cars, this may have the most similar system comparison-wise. However, the HRV still takes this category because it is overall a system in a more affordable model offering more services and features than the Chevrolet MyLink App.

The HRV features a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. However, all models lack volume and tuning knobs, which is disappointing. The system also integrates touch and steering wheel controls, dual-screen configuration, and a secondary touchscreen that allows passengers to interact with audio and display settings, which is a first in its class. The Trax features a MyLink infotainment system. The LT and LTZ models feature a 7.0-inch screen, but the LS contains only a 6.0-inch screen. The Trax comes with a 3-month subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio Sound, which is not available in the HRV. The MyLink system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This feature is not available in the HRV. For a system with Apple CarPlay, the buyer would have to choose a model with built-in navigation, presenting an extra cost. Overall, the Trax features a more advanced infotainment system with more audio and phone features. This category is won by the Trax due to having more models fitted with more advanced systems offering more features.

3.2 Safety features

The Chevy Trax comes standard with 10 airbags and a 5-star overall vehicle score for safety. The new technologies for the Chevrolet Trax help to prevent accidents and protect occupant safety. Available active safety features utilize ultrasonic sensors and radars to warn drivers of potential crashes. The segment-exclusive OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected. The advanced connection gives customers easier access. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not yet conducted crash testing on the Honda HR-V. This is most likely due to the fact that the Honda HR-V is relatively new to the United States and it is considered a niche vehicle with relatively low sales volumes. However, the HR-V did receive "good" crash ratings for the two available crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The HR-V also comes standard with a multi-angle rearview camera and has available Honda LaneWatch, which is a small camera on the passenger side mirror that eliminates blind spots.

3.3 Connectivity options

It may sound too serious for trivial data connections, but if there is a demand for transferring internet from a car, or if we want to turn a car into a gigantic mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, Trax OnStar and its hotspot are the exact features that will match the demand. Though it also targets more mobile workers, it may shift consumer demand to make it a standard feature on any Trax.

For more serious device connections, such as connecting a smartphone's GPS to the car's audio as an alternative to built-in navigation, Trax has a USB port and MyLink audio, while HRV only gains its advantage through its Display Audio smartphone app integration. In the same complex with more specified brands, HRV has an edge on this connectivity through its HDMI interface, which enables connecting a smartphone to the head display unit to run a handful of supported applications.

By subscribing to a data plan via OnStar, users can use the hotspot to connect up to 7 devices to access the internet. Trax supports this only with just a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. Though HRV still stays on the same ground to connect devices using a USB port or Bluetooth, an application-based system in Display Audio allows users to connect their smartphones and access the internet. This feature slightly surpasses Trax, but it has gained preferable interfacing on MyLink audio from consumers.

For connectivity, both the HRV and Trax have acquired diverse, standard, and optional facilities to connect devices from a given minimum. For trivial data connection transfer, such as playing a device's audio through the car's audio, Trax can be a candidate through its OnStar 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as its Chevrolet MyLink Audio System.

3.4 Advanced driver-assistance systems

Chevy Trax: Trax itself doesn't have a specific system that can be called an advanced driver support system. But there are some features that help to minimize the risk of collision when driving this cute compact SUV. The first feature is Stabilitrak Electronic Stability Control System. For some trims, Stabilitrak is becoming one of the standard features. This feature will help the driver maintain the car as the driver intended. It works by increasing traction when it senses that the car is deviating from the intended path, and it continues to work until the car is back on the right path. Another feature is the Rear Vision Camera, which is a standard feature for all trims in Chevy Trax. This camera provides a full view of what's behind the car, and it's very useful for avoiding and minimizing the risk of collision when parking the car. Sometimes there are children playing behind parked cars, so this feature is particularly helpful. But overall, Chevy Trax lacks an advanced driver support system compared to Honda HRV. It starts with the fact that there is no specific system that can be called an advanced driver support system, and it also lacks some specific safety features. Because of these reasons, we can say that Honda HRV is far better than Chevy Trax in terms of advanced driver support system.

The Honda HRV, at the advanced driver support system side, the Honda HRV is equipped with Honda Sensing. This system is able to minimize the risk of collision by providing features such as Road Departure Mitigation, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System. These features will work by giving early warning to the driver about the conditions of the road at that moment. This Honda Sensing will be a standard feature in every Honda HRV. And for the Malaysia market, this Honda HRV will also be equipped with Forward Collision Warning and Honda LaneWatch.

4. Price and Value

Resale value is the disappointing factor for the Trax, which is showing depreciation with a 64% and 3-year value, and a 34% and 5-year value. The HR-V comes out as the clear winner in this section with a 67% and 3-year value, and a 41% and 5-year value. This clearly shows that it is the vehicle that has big value retention, and buying a 2016 model would be a worthwhile investment for the near future.

When it comes to affordability, there isn't all that much dividing the two. With a mere $40.00 more annual cost for the HR-V than the Trax for the estimated service and repairs, and a slightly decreased cost for fuel, the HR-V definitely tips the scale in terms of dependability over the Chevy. That type of peace of mind is vital when you are working with a tight budget. In this sense, both vehicles come out as winners with low enough costs and low variability.

Base price for the Honda HR-V and the Chevrolet Trax is pretty similar as is expected with most comparative models. The HR-V starts at a base price of $19,215.00 which is slightly more than the Trax's base price of $20,300.00. However, the cheap plastic finish in the Chevy does not look all that appealing. Considering the starting price of both vehicles, the HR-V is the better bang for your buck in terms of the initial standard of the vehicle, given the sleek interior finishes and the general clean look throughout. The same can't be said for the Trax, with its average sounding $24,680.00 MSRP and the very basic finishes. Visually, it can be mistaken for one of the cheaper Asian SUVs.

4.1 Base price comparison

Therefore, the pricing for these vehicles is considerably close. However, the HRV comes standard with equipment that is unavailable at any price on the Trax, such as performance and safety. In addition, these basic prices do not take into account the inevitable discounting that will take place with the Honda JNAP-built HRV, a model that will undoubtedly be a candidate for some hefty discounting as an all-new model from a mostly import brand. Regardless, the Trax's considerably lower end MSRP will be something that, to a certain bargain-hunting buyer, will be hard to ignore. In terms of real transaction prices, expect a base price all-wheel drive LS Trax to be easily attainable in the $19,000 range. Buyers will likely pay closer to sticker price for an HRV early in its launch. Combining the various price ranges and expected transaction prices, it is quite probable that a more heavily discounted Trax can be had for several thousand dollars less than an HRV comparably equipped with all-wheel drive and modern amenities. At face value, looking strictly at the manufacturer's MSRP and the cut-rate priced LS model of the Trax, it would seem as if the Honda HRV is quite a bit more expensive right from the start when comparing to a similar Chevrolet Trax. Given the conventional wisdom that consumers generally have about Honda vehicles being a bit more expensive and higher quality compared to domestics, this is likely an impression that is held by many casual shoppers. However, pricing is a bit more complex than this and is influenced heavily by levels of standard equipment and the targeted buyer for each model.

4.2 Cost of ownership

Other costs include insurance and other unknown costs. The HRV's average insurance cost over 5 years is a $1,300 saving compared to the Trax. This in addition to an extra $200 in the same period for administrative fees. Given that these figures are all added costs on top of base vehicles already purchased, it seems that the HRV will be cheaper than the Trax in the long run and has more funds saving potential.

One of the costs that come with owning a vehicle is fuel. Fuel costs over 5 years for the Trax will add up to $9,200, while the HRV's fuel costs will add up to $8,600. This is a $600 difference, not significant but still notable, and it is more in the buyers' favour to be spending less on fuel. A more efficient engine will generally lead to a more efficient vehicle. The Trax and HRV are evenly matched with a 6/10 repair rating, however the HRV has a 6/10 fuel system rating compared to the Trax's 4/10 rating. It looks like the HRV has the edge for fuel costs and considering the same time period the HRV is predicted to save buyers $1,500 in less repairs. This is evidence that the HRV has the more efficient engine given it will cost less to repair in the same time period. The HRV is the clear choice in this case for a less costly time period owning the vehicle.

Maintenance cost is an important consideration when buying a car. The Trax is average at best with total costs over 10 years being higher than expected at $37,000. The HRV on the other hand offers high quality maintenance at a low cost, with total costs over 10 years being a low $30,000. This is a $7,000 difference which is significant. An unreliable vehicle may cost you more than money, it may cost you time and inconvenience. A predicted reliability score is generated from reported problems from previous models, considering this, the HRV is a clear choice for reliability with a 4/5 rating compared to the 3/5 rating for the Trax. The predicted reliability score for the HRV may be a contributor to its higher maintenance quality at a lower cost.

4.3 Resale value

Resale value is an excellent method to compare the overall desirability of a vehicle as well as the reliability between the two based on the historical data from past model years. If a vehicle is known to last considerably longer than others or sell at a higher price, it can be assumed that the vehicle is of higher quality and reliability. Because the HR-V is a relatively new model, consumer data has shown that there is little to no depreciation in the HRV's value within the first year. Expert predictors of vehicle values, such as KBB and Edmunds, predict that the HR-V will retain 60% of its value at 3 years and 50% at 5 years. This would be considered somewhat of an average rating in the vehicle world. Now, in comparison, the Trax is already at a lower starting point, as the vehicle can lose 20% of the value of a new car within the first year and 40% within 3 years. This is likely due to issues with the reliability and quality of parts in the vehicle. Each has its high points and low points, but the Honda HR-V can be seen as a safer investment from the resale perspective.

References:

Borkowski, A. & Zawiślak, M. (2023). Comparative analysis of the life-cycle emissions of carbon dioxide emitted by battery electric vehicles using various energy mixes and vehicles with ICE. Combustion Engines. bibliotekanauki.pl

Balf, T. & Flynn, L. (). J_he New Hampshire. scholars.unh.edu. unh.edu

Kikuta, R. (2023). Risk Assessments and Modeling of Driver by Using Risk Potential Theory. msstate.edu