Holden Trax LTZ 2014 review

What is it?

Holden's small SUV based on the same platform as the Barina with many parts in common.

How much?

Trax is priced from $23,490 for the LS and $27,990 for the top of the range LTZ. Auto adds $2200 to the price of the LS (included with LTZ).

What are competitors?

This size and style of vehicle is the next big thing we're told. Competitors include Ford's Ecosport, the Hyundai ix35, Nissan Dualis or Mitsubishi ASX  to name a few.

What's under the bonnet?

1.8-litre four cylinder petrol engine delivers 103kW of power at 6300 revs and 175Nm of torque at 3800 revs. It's the four from the mid-sized Cruze and is paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.

How does it go?

Okay. Good compromise between power and economy, but you have to really put the boot in on long hills.

Is it economical?

The manual is good for 7.0 and the auto for 7.6 litres/100km. We were getting 7.7 litres/100km after just under 800km.

Is it green?

The auto gets 4 out of 5 stars from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide, with CO2 emissions of 179g/km.

Is it safe?

Gets a full five stars for crash safety from ANCAP. Safety features include six airbags, a rear view camera and rear parking sensors and electronic stability control.

Is it comfortable?

Yes. Surprisingly roomy. Soaks up the bumps. The engineers have done a good job with the ride and handling.

What's it like to drive?

Look it's not going to set the world on fire but I've driven worst. Holden makes a big hoo-haa over the MyLink system, but it requires a mobile phone with a substantial data plan for full functionality including the BringGo navigation app.

Is it value for money?

Well equipped. Comes with a seven-inch touch-screen with MyLink embedded apps, rear view camera, rear parking sensors, six airbags and Bluetooth phone and audio streaming. LTZ adds 18-inch alloy wheels, Sportec seats, heated front seats, fog lamps, under passenger seat storage tray and trip computer.