What Chevrolet Models Can You Buy New or Certified Pre-Owned for Under $25,000?

November 1st, 2026 by
A row of compact Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer crossovers lined up on a small-town dealership front lot in autumn morning light, no text, no logos other than natural vehicle badging, no identifiable faces. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)
Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.

Under a $25,000 budget, buyers can purchase a new 2026 Chevrolet Trax across multiple trim levels including the LS, 1RS, and LT, as well as select configurations of the subcompact Chevrolet Trailblazer. Buyers expanding their search to Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) and high-quality pre-owned vehicles can also secure midsize sedans like the Chevrolet Malibu or compact crossovers like the Chevrolet Equinox with low mileage and factory warranty backing.

Finding a modern vehicle with up-to-date technology and comprehensive safety features does not require spending luxury money. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax leads the new vehicle lineup with a starting base MSRP of $21,600 for the entry LS trim, while the 1RS and LT trims carry starting base MSRPs of $23,100. Even when adding the standard $1,395 destination charge, these brand-new crossover trims stay comfortably under the $25,000 price point while delivering standard equipment like Chevy Safety Assist and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

For drivers needing a slightly different footprint or available all-wheel drive, looking into our latest inventory of new Trailblazer SUVs offers another avenue. While higher Trailblazer trims move beyond the $25,000 baseline, introductory packages and late-model certified pre-owned versions fit nicely within this price cap.

Commuters making the daily drive from Clarksville across the state line often look for a balance between upfront value and long-term operating costs. Our team at Newton Chevrolet of Russellville provides real numbers up front with no mystery fees so you can compare new and certified pre-owned options side by side. If you want to check local vehicle availability or test drive a specific trim, finding our Russellville showroom is easy, or you can give our staff a quick call at (270) 713-3840.

Table of Contents

What Engine Performance and Fuel Economy Does the Chevrolet Trax Offer?

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax comes powered by a 1.2L ECOTEC Turbo inline 3-cylinder engine generating 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque paired with a Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission. This front-wheel-drive powertrain yields an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city / 32 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined, offering an efficient balance for daily commuting and weekend highway trips alike.

Engineered to deliver punchy low-end torque for quick city acceleration, the 1.2L turbo engine ensures the Trax handles merge lanes and stop-and-go driving with ease. The Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic provides crisp shift points without the high-rpm hunting sometimes experienced with continuously variable transmissions. Active Noise Cancellation comes standard across all trims, working through the cabin speakers to absorb road rumble and mechanical drone.

Engine & Performance Specs

Trim Engine Output / Transmission
LS 1.2L Turbo I-3 137 hp / 162 lb-ft Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Auto
1RS 1.2L Turbo I-3 137 hp / 162 lb-ft Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Auto
LT 1.2L Turbo I-3 137 hp / 162 lb-ft Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Auto
2RS 1.2L Turbo I-3 137 hp / 162 lb-ft Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Auto
ACTIV 1.2L Turbo I-3 137 hp / 162 lb-ft Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Auto

For drivers navigating agricultural back roads around Elkton, maintaining steady fuel economy during mixed rural and highway travel helps keep seasonal fuel bills low. The single-drivetrain setup simplifies mechanical maintenance over the lifetime of the vehicle. When routine oil service or tire rotations come due, scheduling a routine maintenance appointment with our factory-trained service technicians ensures your crossover stays in top mechanical condition.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Feature 1RS 2RS Activ LS LT
Engine 1.2L 1.2L 1.2L 1.2L 1.2L
Horsepower 137 hp 137 hp 137 hp 137 hp 137 hp
Torque 162 lb-ft 162 lb-ft 162 lb-ft 162 lb-ft 162 lb-ft
Transmission Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

Feature 1RS 2RS Activ LS LT
MPG 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined

Chevy Trax vs. Trailblazer: How Do Price and Cargo Space Compare?

The Chevrolet Trax starts at a base MSRP of $21,600 for the LS trim compared to the Chevrolet Trailblazer’s higher starting price point around $23,100, while cargo capacities remain virtually neck-and-neck at about 26 cubic feet behind the second row for the Trax and 25 cubic feet for the Trailblazer. When folding the rear seats down, maximum cargo volume expands to roughly 54 cubic feet in both subcompact crossovers.

Choosing between these two crossovers comes down to specific capability requirements and trim features. The Trax utilizes a slightly longer overall body length, giving second-row passengers generous legroom alongside wide rear cargo access. However, the Trax is strictly available in front-wheel drive. The Trailblazer features a slightly shorter wheelbase and higher ride height, offering optional all-wheel drive and a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs when properly equipped.

Trax vs. Trailblazer Comparison

Spec / Feature Chevrolet Trax Chevrolet Trailblazer
Base MSRP Range $21,600 – $25,700 Starts near $23,100
Cargo (Row 2 Up) About 26 cu ft About 25 cu ft
Max Cargo Space About 54 cu ft About 54 cu ft
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive only Available All-Wheel Drive
Max Towing Not rated for towing 1,000 lbs

Shoppers evaluating cabin technology will find that stepping up to the Trax LT trim at a base MSRP of $23,100 unlocks an 11-inch diagonal center touchscreen paired with an 8-inch digital Driver Information Center. If you are planning to upgrade from your current vehicle to offset the purchase price of a new crossover, evaluating your current vehicle trade-in value online provides an upfront baseline before visiting our showroom.

Pricing

Pricing by trim

Feature 1RS 2RS Activ LS LT
Base MSRP $23,100 $25,700 $25,700 $21,600 $23,100
Destination charge $1,395 $1,795 $1,795 $1,395 $1,395

What Requirements Must a Vehicle Meet to Become a Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned Model?

To qualify for Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned status, a vehicle must be from within the past 6 model years, have fewer than 75,000 miles on the odometer, possess a clean title, and pass a mandatory 172-point inspection conducted by factory-trained technicians.

This inspection covers mechanical components under the hood, undercarriage structural integrity, brake pad thickness, tire tread depth, body condition, and full electronic systems diagnostic checks. Any component that fails to meet Chevroletโ€™s strict standards must be reconditioned or replaced using genuine OEM parts before the vehicle receives certification.

Chevrolet CPO Standards & Benefits

Requirement / Coverage Standard Details
Vehicle Age Limit Within 6 model years
Maximum Mileage Under 75,000 miles
Inspection Process Comprehensive 172-Point Quality Inspection
Powertrain Limited Warranty 6-Year / 100,000-Mile coverage
Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty 12-Month / 12,000-Mile coverage
Roadside Assistance Included for duration of Powertrain Warranty

Buyers choosing a CPO vehicle receive factory warranty protections including a 6-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Certified vehicles also come with manufacturer-backed roadside assistance, available by contacting Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: 1-800-243-8872.

Browsing our selection of certified pre-owned Chevrolet models gives budget-conscious buyers access to late-model Equinox and Malibu units under $25,000 with complete ownership confidence. You can also start the purchase process remotely by connecting with our experienced sales team or submitting an online financing application.

How Do Pre-Owned Chevy Cars Like the Malibu Extend Your Budget Options?

Selecting a pre-owned Chevrolet Malibu sedan or a pre-owned Chevrolet Equinox compact SUV allows buyers to secure larger vehicle classes and higher-tier comfort amenities while maintaining a budget under $25,000.

A pre-owned Malibu powered by the standard 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city / 36 mpg highway, making it an efficient choice for long-distance commuters who prefer the low center of gravity and smooth ride of a midsize sedan. The Malibu provides generous rear passenger legroom and a deep trunk for luggage.

Pre-Owned Value Alternatives Under $25k

Model Engine Fuel Economy Primary Advantage
Chevrolet Malibu 1.5L Turbo I-4 28 city / 36 hwy Midsize sedan comfort
Chevrolet Equinox 1.5L Turbo I-4 26 city / 29 hwy Compact SUV utility

For buyers who require higher ground clearance and expanded rear cargo space, a late-model pre-owned Equinox offers a spacious compact SUV platform. Exploring our pre-owned inventory under 30K reveals a rotating lineup of well-maintained vehicles that have been thoroughly safety-checked. Should you ever wish to customize your pre-owned car or crossover with specialized cargo organizers or custom floor mats, our dedicated parts department stocks genuine factory accessories designed specifically for your model year.

Common Questions About Chevrolet Vehicles Under $25,000

Q: Does the Chevrolet Trax come equipped with standard safety assistance technology?

Every 2026 Chevrolet Trax comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of six active safety features. This system includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam automatic high beams, and a Following Distance Indicator. Higher trims like the 2RS and ACTIV offer additional driver assistance upgrades including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

Q: Can I buy a new Chevrolet Trax trim with an 11-inch touchscreen for less than $25,000?

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT trim carries a base MSRP of $23,100 and includes an 11-inch diagonal center HD color touchscreen paired with an 8-inch digital Driver Information Center as standard equipment. Adding the $1,395 destination charge brings the total sticker price to $24,495, keeping this feature-rich trim under the $25,000 ceiling before local taxes and registration fees.

Q: Are Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned vehicles backed by roadside assistance?

Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned vehicles include 24-hour roadside assistance for the duration of the 6-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Covered emergency services include flat tire changes, battery jump-starts, towing to an authorized Chevrolet dealership service center, and lockout services. Owners can call Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: 1-800-243-8872 for emergency dispatch anywhere in the country.

Q: What is the main structural difference between the Trax 1RS and Trax 2RS trims?

The Trax 1RS carries a base MSRP of $23,100 and features 18-inch machined two-tone aluminum wheels along with an 8-inch touchscreen. The 2RS steps up to a base MSRP of $25,700 and upgrades to 19-inch wheels, the 11-inch center touchscreen display, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and heated front seats with a heated flat-bottom steering wheel.

Q: How can I complete most of my car purchase online before visiting the dealership?

Shoppers can review warranty terms through our Chevrolet certified pre-owned program guidelines and build their entire deal remotely using our Newton Fastpass digital buying tool. This system allows you to select your vehicle, structure monthly financing terms, value your trade-in, and submit credit documents online to save time at the dealership.

How Do You Check Local Inventory and Listed Prices at Newton Chevrolet?

Checking live vehicle availability, itemized pricing, and current incoming shipments is handled directly through Newton Chevrolet of Russellvilleโ€™s official online inventory search portal.

Our website displays transparent pricing, detailed window sticker specifications, and clear breakdowns of vehicle options for every new Trax, Trailblazer, and pre-owned vehicle on our lot. Because vehicle turn times on entry-level models are fast, reviewing our digital inventory daily gives you immediate access to newly listed vehicles as soon as they arrive from the factory.

Newton Chevrolet of Russellville Direct Contact Info

Physical Address 452 Hopkinsville Rd, Russellville, KY 42276
Sales Phone (270) 713-3840
Inventory Access Updated daily with real numbers up front
Customer Support No mystery fees, straight answers from real advisors

Our team believes in straight answers and straightforward buying without pressure or hidden charges. If you see a new Trax trim or a certified pre-owned vehicle that matches your commute needs and monthly budget, get directions to 452 Hopkinsville Rd, Russellville, KY 42276 to take a test drive, or contact our sales specialists directly at (270) 713-3840 to reserve your vehicle today.


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