Chevrolet Trax

Importing a used Chevrolet Trax from the USA

The Chevrolet Trax is Chevy's entry-level crossover, and the second-generation car in particular has become a surprise value story on the US market — a genuinely spacious, well-styled small SUV sold at a low price point. That combination means plenty of them are already changing hands used. If you want to import a used Chevrolet Trax from the USA, USCar Trader acts purely as your broker: we locate the car, verify its history and origin, and organise transport and clearance, without holding stock or charging a vehicle margin.

Production years and key changes

There are two distinct Trax generations, and they are very different cars. The first generation (US model years 2015–2022, sold earlier elsewhere) was a tall, narrow subcompact based on the Gamma II platform, closely related to the Buick Encore. The second generation, launched for 2024, is an all-new car: longer, much wider, lower and far more modern-looking, riding on GM's VSS-F architecture and sharing much with the Buick Envista. The 2024-onward Trax is the one most buyers want, because it looks a class above its price and offers a genuinely usable interior.

What is under the hood

The first-generation Trax used the 1.4-litre Ecotec turbo four (LUV/LE2), rated around 138 hp and 148 lb-ft, paired with a six-speed automatic and offered with front- or all-wheel drive. The second-generation car switches to a smaller 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder (LIH), producing about 137 hp and 162 lb-ft, driving the front wheels only through a six-speed automatic. Note that point carefully: the new Trax is front-wheel drive only — there is no AWD option on the 2024+ car. If you need all-wheel traction, you must look at a first-generation example.

Trims and body styles

The Trax is a five-door crossover. The current range runs LS, 1RS, LT, ACTIV and 2RS. The RS trims bring sportier styling, black accents and larger wheels; ACTIV adds a light rugged theme. Higher trims fit a large 11-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a digital driver display. Even mid-spec cars come generously equipped for the segment, which is a big part of the model's appeal.

What the US market offers

Because the redesigned Trax sold strongly and cheaply, low-mileage 2024 and 2025 examples are already appearing in volume, many from rental and lease fleets. Expect clean cars with modest mileage. First-generation cars are older and cheaper, often with higher miles; prioritise service history on those because of the turbo four. As always, cars from dry southern and western states present with the least corrosion, which simplifies a German registration.

Who this import is for

A used Trax suits a buyer who wants a stylish, roomy, easy-to-park small SUV with a big screen and low running costs, and who does not need all-wheel drive or strong performance. The second-generation car in ACTIV or RS trim is the standout — it delivers a look and feel well beyond its station. Buyers needing AWD should target a tidy first-generation example instead.

Technical data and figures

Reliability: trouble spots to check

The second-generation Trax is new enough that long-term data is still building, but the 1.2-litre three-cylinder is a downsized turbo unit, so treat regular oil changes with the correct low-viscosity spec and clean fuel as non-negotiable. The bigger reliability story sits with the first generation and its 1.4-litre turbo four, which has a known appetite for problems if neglected: timing-chain stretch on higher-mileage engines, PCV-system and valve-cover issues that can cause oil consumption and rough running, and occasional coolant leaks from the water outlet and thermostat housing. On any first-gen car, verify the timing chain has been addressed and listen for a rattle on cold start. Both generations otherwise use mainstream GM electronics that are inexpensive to service.

US vs. Europe differences

US Trax models often run combined red rear lamps without a separate rear fog lamp, which German rules require, and the headlights follow US beam patterns that need ECE-compliant units or adjustment. The instrument cluster reads mph and the trip computer defaults to US units. Infotainment is current and CarPlay/Android Auto equipped, though the built-in navigation and radio bands may need attention. This is the routine scope of a US-to-EU conversion.

How the import works

Selection and offer; VIN and origin verification to establish the assembly plant; escrow payment for security; ocean freight from a US port to a European port such as Bremerhaven; customs clearance; TÜV individual approval (Einzelabnahme) with any needed modifications; and German registration. USCar Trader coordinates the whole chain.

Import duty, VAT and fees

Key point: duty depends on the plant of build; only a VIN check secures the 0% rate. Import VAT of 19% applies regardless.

We always separate the two charges. The import duty first: under EU Regulations 2026/1455 and 2026/1461, a 0% rate can apply to vehicles of provable US origin imported since 1 July 2026 under direct transport, in force until 31 December 2029. The Trax is generally built in South Korea (and earlier partly in Mexico), so origin here is neutral — the rate depends on the actual plant confirmed by the VIN, and only a genuinely US-built car could reach 0%. Separately, and in every case, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) applies on the customs value. We never claim "duty-free" and add no margin to the car.

From modifications to registration

Expect to fit ECE headlights (or document a compliant adjustment), add a rear fog lamp, confirm the km/h speedometer marking, and verify tyre and lighting compliance. The Trax has no unusual hardware, so the Einzelabnahme is generally uncomplicated.

Pre-buy inspection points

Confirm the VIN and its build plant; obtain a full Carfax or AutoCheck report free of salvage, flood or odometer issues; on first-gen cars check the timing chain and oil-consumption history; inspect the underbody for rust; confirm a clean, lien-free title; and review the service record. An on-site inspection before shipping is well worth it.

What buyers ask most

Does the 2024 Chevrolet Trax come with all-wheel drive?

No. The second-generation Trax is front-wheel drive only. For AWD you need a first-generation car.

Will a used Trax qualify for 0% EU customs duty?

Only if the VIN proves US assembly. Most Trax models are Korean-built, so the rate depends on the plant. The 19% import VAT always applies.

Which Trax generation is better to import?

The 2024-onward second generation is far more modern and spacious. Choose a first-gen car mainly if you need AWD or a lower entry point.

What are the Trax's common problems?

Mainly the first-gen 1.4 turbo: timing chain, PCV/oil consumption and coolant leaks. The new 1.2 three-cylinder needs disciplined servicing.

Is the three-cylinder engine strong enough?

For relaxed everyday use, yes. It is not a performance car, but the torque figure makes town and motorway driving comfortable.

How long does importing take?

Usually several weeks, driven by shipping and the TÜV appointment. USCar Trader manages the schedule.

Does it use premium fuel?

No, regular unleaded petrol is specified for both turbo engines.

Can it be registered easily in Germany?

Yes, after standard lighting and documentation changes at the Einzelabnahme.

To begin, explore Chevrolet in the Carhub, compare rivals such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Buick Encore GX and the Hyundai Venue, or view current Trax listings.