We video test the Holden Trax 1.4 iTi LTZ
The old adage “there’s no substitute for cubic inches” has gone out of the window with Holden’s latest Trax, the 1.4iTi LTZ. Despite having only a 1.4-litre engine, turbo-charging and direct injection give it more power than some much bigger-engined alternatives.
And it’s packed full of features, including 18 inch alloy wheels, a rear-view camera with a seven-inch colour monitor that also doubles up as the touchscreen for the brilliant MyLink infotainment system, plus front fog lamps and a trip computer. There are also reversing sensors.
There’s also Bluetooth connectivity, automatic headlights and daytime running lights, as well as heated front seats, “Sportec” seat trim, rain sensing wipers, a driver’s armrest, and an electric sunroof.
On top of that you can download various custom apps to your Smartphone which are then replicated into the MyLink touchscreen.
Then there’s also the Siri Eyes Free system (for iPhone 4S and 5) which allows you to use voice activation to make phone calls, select and play music, hear and compose text messages, read notifications, and add reminders.
The BringGo satellite navigation app costs about $80 downloaded from iTunes or Google Play, after a one-month free trial, and there’s Pandora Internet radio, Stitcher podcasts, and Tunein global radio.
On the open road the Trax is a willing performer, with easy cruising and rapid overtaking, thanks to its flat torque plateau (which starts at only 1,850rpm) and the extremely smooth and hard-working six-speed automatic gearbox.
The steering is positive, with good turn-in, and a nice blend of handling and ride quality, even over some of the low grade country roads we often travel on. Although definitely not aimed at off-roading, the high-riding Trax does benefit from both hill descent control and hill start assist.
Getting into the Trax is a welcoming experience, with seat height just perfect for a slide rather than a climb.
The front seats are sporty and nicely bolstered to hold the front passengers during hard cornering, while trim levels are high. We especially liked the hand stitching on the seats, as well as the leather-rimmed steering wheel and satellite controls for the phone, audio system, and the cruise control system.
Boot space is better than your average shopping trolley hatch, at 356 litres with the 60/40 split rear seats in place, and 785 litres with them folded down. Holden claims an average combined fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km for the 103kW/200Nm 1.4 turbo Trax. For more information including latest pricing, go to www.holden.co.nz/cars/trax/range/ltz.
John Oxley, managing editor Company Vehicle.
