Chevrolet’s largest crossover SUV can hold as many as seven or eight occupants, depending on its second-row seating configuration: bucket seats or a bench. Space is abundant for both people and luggage. Cargo room exceeds that of Traverse’s class competitors, and even approaches the available volume of some minivans.
What's New for 2016
OnStar 4G LTE connectivity is new for 2016, with a wi-fi hotspot. Complementing Chevrolet MyLink, it provides a mobile hub that’s active whenever the vehicle in turned on. Leather and Driver Confidence Packages are available for the LT trim level, with leather-appointed seating, eight-way power front seats, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a power-folding auto-dimming driver’s mirror with integrated turn-signal indicator. Aluminum 20-inch wheels have new designs.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Traverse
Each Traverse holds a 3.6-liter V6, mating with a six-speed automatic transmission. Output is 281 horsepower in LS and LT trim, but the LTZ adds a dual exhaust system for 288 horsepower. All-wheel drive is offered in each trim level. Fuel economy is estimated at 17 mpg city/24 mpg city with front-wheel drive, or 16/23 mpg with all-wheel drive.
Should you pick a Traverse, or go with the closely-related GMC Acadia? Identical in size and similar in details, both use the same single powertrain, but GMC promotes its crossover as more upscale. So, differences come down to standard equipment trim levels, and the higher price of GMC’s versions.
Traverse comes in four trim levels:
Such options as a panoramic sunroof, rear entertainment, and a Bose surround-system are available for LT and LTZ models.
Considering that even the base LS is nicely trimmed and amply equipped, Traverse qualifies as a provider of considerable utility, space and comfort for a fairly moderate sum. LT models add some welcome extras, without raising the price too far. That’s not the case with the top-rung LTZ, which can send the total cost well past the $40,000 mark.