Holden’s refreshed Trax crossover checks-in

HOLDEN has released specification and costs for its updated 2017 Trax small-sized crossover, reshuffling variants and pricing with the introduction of a new mid-tier variant and boosting connectivity technology across the range.

The Trax line-up still opens with the 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-pot LS five-speed manual for $23,990 before on-road costs, but now its six-speed automatic sibling gains the 1.4-litre turbo unit from higher grades.

Automatic-equipped LS versions also gain front and rear disc brakes, while all base variants are fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth interior, a six-speaker sound system, reversing camera, cruise control, rear-park assist and leather steering wheel.

New in the updated range are projection headlights with daytime-running lights (DRLS), as well as a 7.0-inch colour touchscreen entertainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Meanwhile, Holden has repositioned its top-spec LTZ further up the pecking order, pushing it up to $30,490 and introducing a new mid-tier LT in its place at $28,890.

Similar to last year’s LTZ, the new LT variant gains 18-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps and armrests for the driver and front passenger, but 2017 model year updates bring a sunroof, new-look interior trim, digital radio, keyless entry and start.

The range-topping LTZ nets Sportec synthetic leather seats, heated front pews and automatic wipers, along with the new-to-the-range LED tail-lights, side mirror-integrated turn signals, 3.5-inch driver display, blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert.

Both LT and LTZ grades are powered by the 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and are exclusively available with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Across the 2017 Trax range, new front and rear designs keep the small crossover in-line with styling updates to other General Motors (GM) products including the Chevrolet Volt and Malibu.

Further differentiating itself from last year’s model, the new Trax is also equipped with a new console design with contrast stitching across the dash.

Standard colours available across the Trax range include red and white, while prestige colours including blue, black, silver and grey incur a $550 price premium.

Holden design director Richard Ferlazzo has high hopes for the updated Trax describing it as a “refined and luxurious environment for drivers to enjoy their journey in”.

“The new Trax is the latest model to be released in Holden’s new product onslaught and with its advanced technology and premium design, is one I’m sure will continue to be popular with customers,” he said.

Last year, Holden enjoyed a 25.6 per cent sales increase in its Trax crossover, moving 7976 units in the 12 month period.

However, the Trax still placed fifth in the burgeoning small-SUV segment behind the Mazda CX-3 (18,334), Mitsubishi ASX (18,126), Nissan Qashqai (12,259) and Subaru XV (8290).

2017 Holden Trax pricing*

LS 1.8L	$23,990
LS 1.4T (a)	$26,490
LT 1.4T (a)	$28,890
LTZ 1.4T (a)	$30,490

*Excludes on-road costs