The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is noticeably longer than prior model, inside easily accommodates third row passengers. Chevrolet Photo.
Newly styled and longer model ‘hits the sweet spot’
Introduced earlier this year and arriving at dealer showrooms now, the all-new Chevrolet Traverse fits nicely between the smaller Equinox and the full-size Tahoe. It’s in that medium-sized “sweet spot” for many SUVs, and this one offers great fuel economy and an available third row seat – all in a package that starts at $30,975.
Wrapped in bold and refined styling, the redesigned Traverse offers technologies to help keep passengers of all ages and lifestyles comfortable and connected. For our test drive this week, the Traverse spoiled us with comfort and content. Traverse delivered nicely with great third-row legroom, maximum cargo room and passenger volume.
“The all-new Traverse offers the ultimate in style and convenience for the segment, with the versatility customers need and a thoughtful, spacious design they’ll love,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America and brand chief, Global Chevrolet. “It’s the midsize SUV designed to help keep you safe, comfortable and connected.”
The 2018 Traverse is the fourth updated crossover or SUV from Chevrolet within a year, joining the Trax, Bolt EV and 2018 Equinox, further strengthening the brand’s crossover and SUV lineup. Traverse estimated fuel economy ranges from 18-mpg to 27-mpg.
“Nobody in the industry offers a broader, fresher lineup of SUVs and crossovers than Chevrolet,” said Batey. “From the all-electric Bolt EV to America’s longest-running nameplate, Suburban, we’ve got something for every customer and lifestyle.”
The 2018 Traverse has a new look inspired by Chevrolet’s full-size SUVs, with purposeful proportions complemented by premium cues such as chrome accents, LED signature lighting and available D-Optic LED headlamps.
Chevrolet is adding two new trim levels for the 2018 Traverse — the sporty RS and luxurious High Country — to offer customers more choices for a personalized appearance.
The new RS package includes unique, blacked-out exterior cues with a black chrome grille, black bowtie, 20-inch wheels and more.
The High Country trim features premium content and technology, including a unique interior trim featuring Loft Brown leather appointments with suede accents, 20-inch polished wheels, High Country badging, D-Optic headlamps, standard twin-clutch AWD and power-fold third row seats.
“The all-new Traverse blends Chevrolet’s characteristic SUV cues with capability and refinement,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Global Chevrolet Design. “Inside and out, it offers style with a purpose.”
With available seating for up to eight and a longer wheelbase than the prior model, the Traverse has few peers when it comes to capacity and roominess. In fact, the new Traverse offer best-in-class passenger volume as well as max cargo room, while greater storage options and larger bins throughout the ergonomically optimized cabin are designed to enhance convenience and versatility.
We found that loading the Traverse is a breeze with a new Chevrolet bowtie logo lamp feature illuminating the ground to show where drivers need to place a foot to activate the available hands-free power liftgate. This is super cool.
A new 3.6L V-6 and nine-speed automatic transmission (tested) form the standard propulsion system, expected to offer nearly 10 percent more horsepower than the current model and a GM-estimated 25 mpg highway (FWD). The combination also supports an estimated 5,000-pound trailering capacity when properly equipped.
Sporting the new RS trim, the Traverse will exclusively feature a 2.0L turbocharged engine that provides a unique driving experience, with more maximum torque than the V-6. It is also paired with the nine-speed automatic transmission.
Both engines feature new intelligent stop/start technology that determines the best times for fuel-saving engine-stop events, based on a variety of driving factors. New Traction Mode Select is standard on all models and allows the driver to make real-time adjustments to the vehicle’s driving mode to account for varying road conditions.
Overall, this test drive revealed a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, and there is clear distinction between this and the Equinox and the Tahoe.
For more information, see your local Chevrolet dealer or visit Chevrolet.com