BACK in 1935 Chevrolet's Carryall Suburban became the first sports utility vehicle, going on to claim the record for the longest-running vehicle nameplate in the world.

Now, 78 years later, the American icon has launched its first entry onto the small SUV scene with a model that boasts SUV style without the associated running costs.

It comes in the shape of the stylish Trax, armed and loaded to take on established performers like the Nissan Juke.

The claim from Chevy is a vehicle with ample room for five, generous cargo space plus toughness and capability in a compact package.

The engine line-up comprises a 140PS 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a 115PS1.6-litre petrol unit plus a 1.7-litre turbodiesel with 130PS and all manual transmission variants come with Stop/Start. Both the 1.4 turbo petrol and the diesel are available with all-wheel-drive.

Most frugal of the trio is the turbodiesel which has the potential for 62.7mpg when mated to a manual transmission, while fuel consumption of the 1.4 turbo manual averages 44.1mpg. CO2 emissions are 120 and 149g/km and both these versions have the option of all-wheel drive.

Inside, the rear seat row incorporates a 230-volt socket for recharging laptops and other electronic devices while storage compartments include an under-seat storage tray and two gloveboxes, one of which contains outlets for USB and auxiliary devices. 

And if a load space of 1,370 litres - with further space available under the cargo floor - isn't sufficient then the Trax has roof rails as standard and can tow trailers weighing up to 1,200kg.

With the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio, a standard feature on upper trims of the Trax, drivers will have a system that allows them to access media like specialist apps and have easy access to phone books, personal playlists, photo galleries and videos.

Safety kit includes Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control, traction control, four-channel ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist and roll-over Mitigation.

Six airbags, three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions, ISOFX anchoring systems for children's safety seats and a collapsible pedal are also included.

At entry grade the front-wheel drive 115PS 1.6 LS costs £15,495 and comes with stuff like 16-inch alloy wheels, air-con, cruise control, electric front windows, trip computer, automatic headlamps, front fog lamps, roof rails, daytime running lights, reverse parking sensors, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth and Hill Start Assist.

Moving up the range, the LT is available with a range of engine and transmission options, priced from £17,495.