Overview & Reviews

Many Americans have a real need for vehicles big enough to lug Joe Six-pack, his wife, their kids and their kids' teammates on the hockey squad. A minivan would seem like an obvious choice, but these people haulers are anathema for many parents. To fill this need, manufacturers have come up with large crossovers like the Chevrolet Traverse that offer the best of both worlds: a minivan's passenger and cargo capacity along with an SUV's sheet metal.

The eight-passenger Traverse shares its platform with two other current GM vehicles -- the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia -- but it distinguishes itself by being the least expensive of the bunch. This Chevy isn't the quickest or most refined pick in the larger crossover segment, but it excels when it comes to roominess and ride quality. If these attributes are important to you, the Chevrolet Traverse may be an ideal companion.

Current Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV that comes in three main trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ. Base LS models are pretty nicely equipped, with OnStar telematics, Bluetooth, a rearview camera and an audio system with a USB input and satellite radio. The LT trim is actually comprised of two sub-trims (LT1 and LT2) that add more amenities such as a power liftgate, triple-zone climate control and the MyLink infotainment interface. Springing for the LTZ adds upgrades like 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery and ventilated front seats. Options include dual sunroofs, navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Under the hood is a 3.6-liter V6 wedded to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. LS and LT trims make 281 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. The LTZ features a dual-outlet exhaust that boosts output to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are available.

Inside, the Traverse features a stylish two-tone color scheme with, depending on the trim, wood-tone and metallic accents. Seating in the first two rows is comfy, and the split-folding third row -- which tends to be pitifully cramped in many crossovers -- is easy to access and spacious enough for adults. We have a few minor quibbles, such as the compromised rearward visibility. But overall we find this Chevrolet to be a strong choice for those seeking a truly roomy hauler.

Used Chevrolet Traverse Models
The Chevrolet Traverse debuted for the 2009 model year. Not much changed for the next few years. These 2009-'12 models will lack some of the updates introduced for 2013, however. These changes included an exterior styling refresh, upgraded cabin materials and the new MyLink electronics interface.

User Reviews:

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  First Impressions - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By UpstateNY - June 12 - 6:48 am

  The Traverse is actually better than I expected. Quiet on the road and you cant tell that the engine is running sometimes unless you check the tach. Wife tried to start it several times while it was running...no problem it locks out the starter. Very good power although apparently the transmission has been optimized for mileage (at 60 mph its running at only 1600 RPM) so its slightly sluggish until it downshifts out of 6th gear. The mileage is MUCH better than I expected getting 21-22 mpg in suburban driving and the advertised 24 mpg on the highway. That seems remarkable for such a big car. Overall its at least the equal of its competitors such as the Highlander or Pilot.

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  BAD PERFORMANCE - 2010 Chevrolet Traverse
  By russell - April 14 - 10:38 pm

  Bought car with 100,000 mi. from dealership. After 2 days started running bad, took back they changed a coil pack and plug wire, Ran good for a few days started acting bad, no power then light came on. Took back needed a catylitic converter. drove fine for a few days, Now runs like a dead dog, no power unless you kick in passing gear. Something is wrong. Only made one payment and ready to trade and take the loss. Very unsatisfied

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  Lovinitsofar - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By P&A - April 11 - 10:03 am

  Two months old so cant speak for reliability. Love everything so far for our first chevy. Very roomy, feels expensive compared to old Jeep Cherokee we replaced. Good pick up speed, fairly quiet, very smooth, handles well. First tank of gas 16 mpg city with a few quick accelerations. We tested, Hyundai Veracruz, Kia Sorento and Borrego, and GMC Acadia. Chose Traverse over Acadia due to looks, price, and Edmunds reviews. Daughter loves hooking up PS2 and playing video games w/ rear DVD. We love the headphones she uses so we can play our satellite radio while she plays games or watches movies. Im 57" 215lbs and fit comfortably in 3rd row. I will review again in about 6 months.

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  So long Acadia, Hello Traverse - 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
  By N. Manly - April 1 - 4:37 pm

  I have been nothing but impressed with my new 2018 Chevy Traverse. Over the past 9 years, I have owned two GMC Acadias and was about to purchase my third when I saw the specs on the new Traverse. I was very disappointed with the look of the new Acadia and more importantly the fact that they shrunk the size. The reasons I preferred the Acadia in the past are now the reasons I prefer the Traverse; more of an SUV body style, more leg room and especially more cargo room behind the 3rd row seat. The added entertainment and safety features have also been a very nice addition.

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  Wow - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By logandiagnostic - March 11 - 7:30 pm

  With the current auto market conditions, we were able to buy a LT2 FWD for $8k under sticker. We got heated leather, split rear seats, XM, rear camera, power liftgate, remote start, etc. Cyber Gray. $37k crossover for $29k!

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  Chevy Traverse LS - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By eric_okc - March 9 - 12:36 pm

  This is a new company vehicle for me and I put on a lot of miles while driving for work. This is a solid built vehicle with a smooth and strong engine. It provides good acceleration from a standstill or passing on a highway. It has a great amount of cargo space and it very easy to fold down the 2nd and 3rd row seats. The interior design is very refined with clean lines and symmetry. The feel and quality of the plastics and leather seem of higher quality than previous Chevys. The Traverse has a commanding presence its height gives you a good view of your surroundings.

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  Love My Traverse - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By L.A - March 4 - 5:20 am

  I love everything about this car! The ride is quiet and smooth , it has plenty of space, cargo and storage areas. The gas is not 33 mpg but it is decent for a vehicle in its class. I feel safe in this vehicle with all of the safety options installed. I love the exterior. The traverse has a classy yet sassy look. I have 2nd row captains chairs which w/o the console makes the interior look even bigger. I am very pleased with this vehicle.

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  Time To Buy - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Doug - February 8 - 2:56 pm

  My wife and I just purchase this vehicle. I need to tell you that this is one of the best models that Chevy has come up with in a long time. We were looking at the Tahoe and found that it didnt fit the needs of a family. I highly recommend that if you are looking for a mini-van and a SUV buy this vehicle. It is very powerful and loaded with extras. Opt for the leather and DVD.

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  Best Chevy in a long, long time.... - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By waveho - January 12 - 11:36 am

  Have had about a week now, but immediately took on a 7-hour each-way trip over Easter to visit family. Very good driving vehicle. Quality seems very high. Engine is more than adequate, even though we moved from our beloved 02 Suburban. Seats on all three levels are better and roomier than the much bigger Burb! Not quite the road presence as the Burb, but what else does? Air conditioned seats should be standard on all cars! They are just wonderful. Rear entertainment system w/wireless headphones a total necessity for the two boys in the back. First time for them; they loved them. Navigation hiccuped a few times, and Im hopeful the dealership will address this. Good traction.

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  So far so good! - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Johnny Thunders - December 7 - 7:43 am

  Im very tall (nearing 7) so its hard to find a vehicle that just plain fits; other bells and whistles are a secondary concern. The Traverse is not only comfortable for me but offers incredible passenger room and storage capacity. Lots of great/thoughtful design choices in the cabin. Front seats are the most comfortable in the crossover class by a mile. Ive been impressed by how well the A/C system heats/cools the large space, as well as how good the Bose speakers sound. The drive is superb: quiet, powerful, smooth. This should be high on the list for anyone in the SUV/crossover/minivan market. Its been years since Ive had a GM, but the Traverse might well have brought me back for good.