re: Any baw driving a 1.3L 3cylinder car?

The Trax is a good car for a college kid or commuter. No CVT so that's a huge win. It's a turbo 3 cylinder with no variable compression bullshite, and it's easy enough to work on if you have to. The Trax is actually shockingly good for a $23,000 vehicle that's a good bit cheaper than a Corolla or Civic.

I wouldn't buy a Nissan with a CVT. Not just because I think they are going to detonate. They likely will (especially the VC motor)....but Nissan's future in the US isn't on solid ground right now. After sales support could be in question. The VC motors have a funky crankshaft that can increase or reduce stroke depending on engine needs (to increase fuel economy or max performance). It's good technology conceptually but they've had serious issues with it.