2026 Chevrolet Trax LS vs 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on 54 more hp, 24 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $3,595 price gap, 137 vs 191 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Trax LS leads on $3,595 less. The CX-30 2.5 S leads on 54 more hp, 24 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $21,600 | $25,195 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 137 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,983 lbs | 3,419 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.0" | 104.4" |
| Length | 178.6" | 173.0" |
| Width | 71.8" | 70.7" |
| Height | 61.4" | 61.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS starts at $21,600, $3,595 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S at $25,195. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $64/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,595 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 54 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
Both achieve 29 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 54 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS at 137 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 162 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS, AWD on the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS is 5.6″ longer at 178.6″ vs 173.0″. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S comes with AWD, while the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Trax trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Trax vs CX-30: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $3,595 gap adds up to $64/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 54 more hp (191 vs 137). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S comes with AWD; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Trax vs CX-30
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S weighs 436 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS when you want to keep $3,595 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when the extra 54 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $64/month more, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Chevrolet or Mazda or any dealership.