Buyers in the market for a compact urban SUV have an almost bewildering array of models to choose from and yet another vying for their attention is the new Holden Trax.

It’s a global model developed by the Korean arm of General Motors to cash in on the seemingly insatiable appetite in almost every corner of the automotive world for SUV (Sport Utility Vehicles). The arrival of the Trax gives Holden a three-strong SUV model line-up from the full sized and fully combative off-road Colorado 7 to the compact Trax. Neatly sandwiched between these two is the popular, but aging Captiva.

While the Colorado and Captiva have 4WD, the Trax is only offered in front wheel drive form. On several overseas markets where it sold as a Chevrolet and a Vauxhall in the UK, 4WD is available. Holden have taken something of a minimalist approach with the Trax range here. Only two fairly well equipped models are to be had leading off with the $32,990 LT and finishing with the $35,490 range topping LTZ supplied for this road test.

Holden claim the Trax offers best-in-class technology, distinctive chunky styling and good fuel economy. Whether that is enough to steer buyers in its direction in a market chock full of so impressive competition, is a rather large ask for this newest arrival to the Holden stable.

Those who place a lot of importance on having the latest gizmos and gadgets in their vehicle won’t be disappointed with what’s on offer in the Trax. Heading up an exhaustive list of standard features are a seven-inch touch-screen with MyLink embedded apps, rear view camera, rear park assist, six airbags and Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming. It gets the jumps on most of its rivals by being one of the few models in its class to include a 230V electrical socket in the rear of the centre console to charge items like laptops. Holden’s MyLink system offers access to the widest range of apps currently available, including BringGo navigation.

For a global model, Holden had a surprising amount of input into its development mainly around ensuring it was engineered for the unique demands of our roads and drivers in this part of the world. For two years they worked on the engine and transmission calibrations and suspension tune, so its on song with our driving conditions. As a result of their sweat and toil, buyers here get to enjoy a version of the Trax offering sharper handling and performance, than those sold elsewhere in the world.

Just one engine and transmission combo is on the Trax menu with a not particularly tasty 1.8-litre motor that has been powering Holden and other General Motors small cars for over 20 years. It has reached and trucked well beyond its use by date. Now it struggles to foot it with a raft of more modern and sophisticated engines that power the competition with greater flair and panache.

Under the stubby nose of the Trax is re-worked version 103kw version of the General Motors Family One 1.8 litre ECOTEC engine. Used in the popular Holden Cruze, it has served time in more Holden and GM models than you can shake a stick at.  In the lighter Trax, it has a bit more zip and purpose than it musters in the Cruze, by virtue of the fact that it has less weight to haul around. However, performance is far from exhilarating although that may be a bit too much to expect from a car in this price range.

Below par refinement, especially at higher revs along with a shortage of meaningful pulling power in the lower rev range don’t help its cause either. There are a couple of potential replacement motors in the wings capable of wit sparking up performance. The leading contender for this role is the energetic 1.4 turbo charged motor found in higher spec versions of the Cruze sedan and hatch. A relatively smooth and responsive 6-speed automatic is the more endearing member of the Trax power train, and has to work hard and smart to keep an engine that’s over hill operating at its peak.

The Trax is a hugely practical vehicle with its wide opening doors and extra height it’s much easier to enter and leave for the less nimble among us than your lower slung sedan or hatch. Because it’s a tall vehicle the driver has a loftier vantage point offering great all round visibility. This is a good selling point for a growing number of people, who like an elevated driving position as it makes them feel safer and more secure, because they have a better view of the automotive world around them.

Overall the cabin is modern and well thought out. However, the interior plastic fittings and fixtures look and feel cheap as you might expect in a car built to sell on price. To do that, means some trade-offs in various areas of its design and fit out this is a more visible one.

Safety is well an truly covered in all directions with Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist, in addition to Electronic Stability Control incorporating Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Traction Control (TC). Hardly surprising then that the Trax breezed it’s way to five-star ANCAP rating with this level of safety kit on board.

The suspension delivers reasonable levels road holding. Because of its height there is more body lean to deal with if you drive to enthusiastically over undulating or twisty roads. Because of the type of vehicle it is, I cannot image many owners are going to drive it within a whisker of its handling limits. Ride comfort is a bit of mixed bag. Good at open road speed and a tad crunchy and noisy side over sub-standard or uneven road surfaces.

What’s the verdict? The Trax provides Holden with a much needed mini sized SUV and this model is no class leader, its well equipped and affordable.