Slightly overshadowed by the announcement of the all-new 2015 Chevy Cruze at the Chevrolet Night in Beijing was the Chinese launch of the Trax subcompact crossover.
The Trax, which was just announced for the U.S. market this past week, will be available in China with GM’s 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (LUJ/LUV) mated to the only available transmission — a six-speed “automated manual” (on which we’re getting clarification).
The diminutive crossover, which recently received a five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing, benefits from eight major safety systems, including Electronic Stability Control, Curve Braking Control, and Rollover Mitigation. Available features include all-wheel drive, a 7-inch color touchscreen complete with the latest Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, and 18-inch wheels.
The Trax will be available in China later this year carrying a price of RMB 119,900 (US $19,263) to RMB 159,900 (US $25,690). Taiwanese actor Kai Ko and actress Amber Kuo will serve as ambassadors for the vehicle across China.
Comment
Don’t use Taiwan actors or actresses as GM ambassadors in China! The Chinese government will never recognize Taiwan as a nation. China has plenty of personalities that can be much better ambassadors. Why doesn’t GM use some of the Chinese employees instead, such that they can say, “I helped making this crossover”?