The Chevy Traverse is powered by a 3.6L V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine is good for 288 hp, giving the Traverse plenty of oomph for merging and more. Power is sent to either the front or to all four wheels with the $2,000 all-wheel-drive option.
Four trim levels are available: LS, 1LT, 2LT and top-of-the-line LTZ. The base LS comes with plenty of standard features, including an AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input, USB and satellite radio functions. Bluetooth connectivity, 17-inch wheels, daytime running lights, a 6.5-inch touch screen display and a rearview camera are also standard. Chevrolet knows that people spend a lot of time in their cars and so the Traverse features a total of ten cup holders for occupants.
1LT-equipped vehicles get 18-inch wheels, an 8-way adjustable power driver's seat, rear parking assist, body-colored external moldings, a remote vehicle starter, heated mirrors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 2LT gives buyers a nicer Bose audio system, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, a universal home remote, electronic auto-dimming mirror and a power rear liftgate. LTZ models add plenty of appearance add-ons and even more luxury. The 20-inch aluminum wheels are matched with exterior chrome accents to set the vehicle apart. Inside, seating is trimmed in perforated leather and both front seats are heated and cooled. The steering wheel is also heated. Upgraded safety tech on the LTZ includes Blind Zone Alert and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert, making normally tricky reversing maneuvers much easier.
Basic safety equipment across all trim levels is extensive. Anti-lock brakes and StabiliTrak prevent the brakes from locking and the vehicle from going into a skid. A standard rear view monitor provides convenience and added safety, while a tire pressure monitoring system keeps an eye on over or underinflated tires. Airbags are plentiful, including a new front center side airbag, which inflates between the two front passengers, an industry first. GM's OnStar system is also standard. Optional this year on 2LT and LTZ is a Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning system, which utilizes cameras to monitor nearby traffic and help assess possible collision threats both in front of the Traverse and in the lanes beside it.
Room For Up To Eight
Attractive Styling
Upscale Amenities
Car-like Handling
Available All-wheel-drive
Following a major mid-cycle redesign in 2013, the Chevrolet Traverse is largely unchanged for 2014, though a Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning system have made their way into the popular SUV.
The Chevrolet Traverse starts at just over $31,000 and offers a lot of space and luxury for the price. Unlike other minivans available, the Traverse has bold SUV-like styling without giving up too much interior volume. The interior space combines with a cushy ride, to make the Traverse a fairly pleasant place to spend time in. The vehicle strikes a very nice balance between these various attributes, making it a good value for families seeking comfortable transportation.
