In general, Chevrolet crossovers are forgettable—they often have these generic jellybean shapes, and their dynamics are far from being stellar. Lately though, they’ve been trying to find the groove, and a good example of that new way of thinking in the bowtie brand is the 2022 Chevrolet Tracker.
Underpinned by the GM Global Emerging Markets or GEM platform it’s part of a five billion US dollar investment, much of which were accumulated by exiting several markets in Europe and Africa. Now, putting all of its eggs into one single sub-compact basket may seem risky, but for the most part, it seems to have paid off.
Aesthetically, the Tracker fits into the brand’s latest SUV design language. The proportions and strong lines give it a sense of leanness that’s quite refreshing in the sub-compact crossover space. From some angles, the face looks a bit frumpy, but at least there’s no mistaking its family DNA. Visually, it’s easy to tell that the ground clearance isn’t much higher compared to a conventional sedan or hatchback; spoiler alert: at 161 mm, it’s not, but at least it lends a more athletic look. The high-mounted seats, together with the overly sloping roofline can also make ingress a challenge to the vertically gifted.
Once you’ve mastered the appropriate neck contortion needed to navigate the Tracker’s roofline, the interior’s actually quite modern with generous room to boot. The dashboard is heavily canted to the driver giving it an odd appearance, but works in improving its usability. As expected of an entry-level crossover, soft-touch materials are nonexistent, but everything looks and feels well made. Most of the switchgear are well-damped too, save for the power window switches. In terms of room, there are no complaints since it’s ample enough in all the measurements that matter. Although, the lack of a center headrest at the back is a big oversight. Meanwhile, there are tons of usable cubby holes headlined by a flat, regularly-shaped cargo hold. At 390 liters it isn’t much, but at least it grows to 845 liters with the rear seats folded down with no compromises to visibility (1,278 liters up to the roof).
Despite the absence of a telescopic steering column, getting a comfortable seating position is easy enough thanks to the semi-powered driver’s seat. Meanwhile, the controls are all laid out in a straightforward manner with chunky, clearly marked buttons. The dual barrel gauge cluster is also legible, but navigating through the onboard menu using controls embedded in the wiper stalk takes some getting used to. On the other hand, the 8-inch MyLink is a breeze to master, although smartphone connectivity is limited to just Apple CarPlay and the audio quality could be better.
The Philippine market Tracker comes with just one engine: a turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder. On paper, it produces solid enough numbers—116 horsepower and 175 Nm of torque, which is then, in turn, backed up by equally solid real-world performance. It’s not the most aurally pleasing powertrain, but at least it feels snappy. Progress is initially brisk, and doesn’t need to really work hard to get the 1,260-kilogram crossover up to a decent pace. However, it does lose grunt as the speeds go up above 100 km/h. The idle start-stop system isn’t the smoothest one around, but the turn over is quick. Plus, it results in staggering good fuel economy figures: 12.82 km/L in moderate and close to 14.98 km/L in light traffic. It requires a strict diet of 95-octane fuel though.
The accompanying 6-speed automatic is well-matched to the engine, although its smoothness is dependent on how heavy your right foot is. Jab it hard, and it can get pretty rough be it with the up- or downshifts. More sensible throttle inputs though result in a more transparent, more serene experience. It’s got a +/- mode too, but with no dedicated manual override, shifts are slow. Best to leave things in Drive then.
Onto the dynamics, the term, “Global Emerging Markets” attached to the platform name may seem like Chevrolet’s shortchanging the Filipino buyer, but that’s not the case. It does give up sharpness and road feel, but return, it seems as if the Tracker’s made for the less-than-ideal road conditions here.
For drivers who treat every curve like the corner of a racetrack, they’ll be dismayed by the overly light steering and the Tracker’s propensity to feel roly-poly. But, for those who like a cushy, comfortable urban runabout, it’s great. Driving it on C5’s dreaded trunk lane shows how well it absorbs impacts, be it on large potholes or uneven asphalt. There’s a bit of axle hop at the back, but it’s something expected on vehicles with a rear torsion beam suspension. The brakes also act well to stop forward momentum, but the pedal does have a somewhat wooden feel to it.
In terms of value, the Tracker is well-loaded for its P 1,242,888 price tag. The LT Redline comes with LED head- and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control (no rear vents), leather seats, and a push-button engine start/stop. It’s a safe choice too with 4 SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control, rear parking sensors with camera, and tire pressure sensors.
In a segment where consumers are spoilt for choice, the Chevrolet Tracker is a genuinely good offering that manages to balance design with the mechanical and technological aspects. It doesn’t really shine in one single aspect, but does well enough in most of them. Most important of all, this isn’t a sad badge slap, money grab move like what Ford did with the Territory.
They may be in the same segment, but their execution couldn’t be any different. Instead of polishing a turd of an SUV, Chevrolet opted to design and engineer a crossover that’s through and through one of their own. This may be something lost to typical buyers who tend to get blinded by unnecessary flash, but for those who truly value what a brand stands for will appreciate what Chevrolet’s done here.
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2022 Chevrolet Tracker LT Redline |
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| Ownership | 2022 Chevrolet Tracker LT 1.0 Redline |
| Year Introduced | 2021 |
| Vehicle Classification | Sub-compact SUV |
| Warranty | 5 years / 100,000 kilometers |
| The Basics | |
| Body Type | 5-door SUV |
| Seating | 5 |
| Engine / Drive | F/F |
| Under the Hood | |
| Displacement (liters) | 1.0 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Delivery | Direct Injection |
| Layout / # of Cylinders | I3 |
| BHP @ rpm | 116 @ 5,800 |
| Nm @ rpm | 175 @ 4,200 |
| Fuel / Min. Octane | Gasoline / 95~ |
| Transmission | 6 AT |
| Cruise Control | No |
| Fuel Economy @ Ave. Speed |
12.82 km/L @ 20 km/h, 14.98 km/L @ 31 km/h |
| Dimensions and Weights | |
| Length (mm) | 4,270 |
| Width (mm) | 1,791 |
| Height (mm) | 1,627 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,570 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,260 |
| Suspension and Tires | |
| Front Suspension | Independent, MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam Axle |
| Front Brakes | Vented Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Parking Brake | Manual |
| Tires | Bridgestone Turanza T005 215/55 R 17 V (f & r) |
| Wheels | Alloy |
| Safety Features | |
| Airbags | 4 |
| Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) | Yes, with EBD |
| Traction / Stability Control | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes, Rear |
| Parking Camera | Yes, Rear |
| Front Seatbelts | 3-pt ELR with pre-tensioner x 2 |
| Rear Seatbelts | 3-pt ELR x 3 |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Anchor | Yes |
| Other Safety Features |
Hill Start Assist Tire Pressure Monitoring System |
| Exterior Features | |
| Headlights | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Yes, Rear |
| Auto Lights | Yes |
| Rain-sensing Wipers | No |
| Tailgate | Manual |
| Interior Features | |
| Steering Wheel Adjust | Tilt |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather |
| Seating Adjustment (driver) | 6-way, Partial Electric |
| Seating Adjustment (front passenger) | 4-way, Manual |
| Seating Surface | Leather |
| Folding Rear Seat | Yes, 60/40 |
| Sunroof | Yes |
| Trip Computer | Yes |
| Convenience Features | |
| Power Steering | Yes |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes |
| Power Mirrors | Yes |
| Rear View Mirror | Day/Night |
| Proximity Key | Yes |
| Climate Control | Yes |
| Audio System |
Stereo Aux USB Bluetooth |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Apple CarPlay |
| # of Speakers | 6 |
| Steering Controls | Yes |
Sir Uly, surprising that you like the Tracker more than the Territory 🤔 One comlaint against the Tracker is the absence of cruise control. In terms of driving experience, is the Chevy crossover really better than the Ford competitor?
ReplyDelete- Mark J.
It's more mechanically polished than the Territory. It's still no match to the Coolray though.
DeleteAgree on the lack of cruise control, but given it's meant for urban confines, it's not missed.
*complaint
DeleteEven the Ecosport with its Fiesta underpinnings would be a better drive than the Territory. The difference between the Ford and the fake is noticable.
DeleteVery nice SUV by Chevrolet..TCCCI just need to adjust its price by 120,000 Pesos less.
ReplyDeleteI think the price should be placed below the Coolray (at least the Premium variant) to convince buyers.
Delete- Mark J.
By means of quality, chevrolet tracker more durable at reliable on roads than chinese brands.
DeleteChevrolet has a long history of producing durable and reliable vehicles, and the brand has been well-established for many decades. The company's commitment to engineering and quality has contributed to its reputation for producing long-lasting cars and trucks.
I read a Tracker review (same plate number) from another site, and in that review, the author mentioned that the brakes would only bite halfway or 3/4 into the pedal. The author also mentioned unusual knocking noises. Sounds like Chevrolet fixed up those issues for this particular unit. Hopefully those issues won't be present in delivered units.
ReplyDeleteThe brakes bite fine...the pedal feel is a bit wooden though (see review above). Either TCCCI bled the brakes or maybe changed the pads? It also requires 95 octane fuel. If it was loaded with anything less, it could explain the knocking (owner's manual indicated as such). One interesting note is that it requires an unusually high tire pressure: 35 PSI. Go any less (I got the unit with 30 PSI) makes the handling terrible.
DeleteJust buy yourself a GAC GS4 which us cheaper and a class larger than this Chevy
ReplyDeleteIf you wish to get one from our current Chevy line up, I would be happy to assist you.
ReplyDeleteRodel Garcia from Chevrolet Quezon Avenue
+639178078131
There is no advanced safety features,in only 4 airbag only 4 stars
ReplyDeleteChevy needs a volume car/nameplate, I don't think Tracker is it. Actually, none from Chevy's lineup so far will be that savior. TCCI badly needs one for Chevy to survive.
ReplyDeletei doubt this would sell well.. kinda pricey for what you get.
ReplyDeleteI tested the Tracker two weeks ago and I have no problem whatsoever. Power is adequate, performance very good, interior comfortability perfect. Main problem is expensive 1.248M for a 1.0Turbo engine. Though a new promo 70k Discount not enough. Should have brought down more by 150t discount. IL buy one if it offered.
ReplyDeleteIt's the quality, durability and the brand of the car, that's why i chose Chevrolet Tracker. Chevrolet is Chevrolet 🙂
ReplyDeleteFord has many issues than chevrolet here in the US, come on, stop comparing Chevrolet to Chinese made cars or japanese cars.
DeleteI have a Chevrolet Tracker and is there a way to reset the "Remaining oil life" in DIC because I already tried everything that is said in the manual.
ReplyDelete