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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  WOW - what a difference 2103 vs. 2018 Traverse - 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Scott S. - November 11 - 1:17 am

  We spent a couple months looking at all the 7 passenger options. (We had a 2013 Traverse - but had several concerns). The 2018 fixed them all and then added more capabilities and features. We knew you can get a great deal on a 2017 but waited for the 2018. Glad we did. In the end we decided on the Premier, but the dealer parked the Premier and High Country in the Iridescent White Paint option next to each other. For the small ($51k vs. $54k) price difference we went with the HIgh Country. I love the additional safety feature like adaptive cruise, etc. We also liked the interior color combination, polished aluminum wheels, twin rear axle clutch, power third row, and exterior trim. In our opinion, since we were spending that much money, and plan on keeping it a few years - why not. The dealer also closed the gap by providing a larger discount.

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  Hate my car. Really - 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
  By CHenk - November 10 - 7:53 am

  We started at 3,000 out of warranty with faulty airbag sensors in the seatbelt. 2 in 2 months. $2,000. 3 alternators. $2,400. Needs a torque converter. $1200. And today, the a/c quit working on the right side and rear. This car is bleeding us dry. And to update, we have replaced the torque converter - car still shudders. Have taken it to the dealership and besides the shuddering when shifting, it will almost die at times when you try to pass or quickly accelerate. They charged almost $400 to clean injectors because there was no check engine light. So, Ive spent $1600 and it shudders and shakes. Uggghhh.

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  Stepped up to something bigger - 2017 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Adrian Q - October 14 - 1:54 pm

  I traded in my 2010 Equinox since the equinox had started to have some rather costly repairs. So i figured to get something bigger with more space. And that is exactly what I got. Compared to the equinox, the Traverse has en enormous amount of space. Even with the third row up, there is still ample cargo room in the back. That and passengers in the third row can actually sit comfortably and have plenty of head room and leg space. Since this was a bigger vehicle, it did take some time to get use to it. I have a narrow drive way and it took some effort to adjust to a wider car. Aside from that so far the ride is comfortable and acceleration is very nice considering the size of the engine. I thought i would be underwhelmed since the V6 i had in the Equinox made it very quick, and the steering was very precise and responsive. The Traverse is a little more muddy but not too much, i think that i am just feeling the weight a lot more then i did on the Equinox. So I feel the weight a lot more on the turns then i did on the Equinox. But not so much that its an issue. Its more something that i need to get use to. Over all I am happy with the Traverse. Since what i needed was a family SUV with lots pf space for kits and and entertainment option for long trips, the Traverse was exactly what I was looking for. The only thing negative that i can report was that when we fist got the car and took it on the express way, there was a noticeable vibration in the steering. We took it back to the dealer and that was corrected quickly and no fuss. Aside from that we have made some long trips and it has been great. Entertainment system is adequate even though i wish i would have been able to get one with a newer version on Chevys MyLink. But these are minor grips since so far a really like this SUV.

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  Love it - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Dee - October 1 - 1:06 am

  This is a perfect family vehicle. Our new Chevy traverse is awesome. It was love at first sight. The smooth drive, the panoramic view, the cargo space & safety features were definite selling points. We have always purchased GM vehicles, and have always been satisfied with their performance & dependability. We still have our 1999 Suburban & w/200,000 miles,it looks & runs great...were hoping to say the same thing about our Traverse in 10 years. Looking forward to enjoying family trips with our grandchildren :)

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  Consider me a fan! - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Jason - September 4 - 3:13 pm

  Ive owned my Traverse for a few weeks, and have put 700 miles on it. So far, its been everything that Ive expected, and I expected great things. There is plenty of room for my family of four (2 yr old and 7 mo old). Sliding the 2nd row seats back as far as they go gives a ton of room to get the kids in and out of their car seats. The cargo room behind the 3rd row fits our ginormous double stroller with no issues. I get 22-24 MPG on the hwy and 19 overall. Not bad, but I feel it could be better. The roof rack cross rails whistle terribly above 50MPH (Ive removed them since). The 3rd row would be a tight fit for 3 average size adults, little head and hip room (Im 59" 189lbs).

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  Best family car ever - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Michael - June 24 - 8:46 am

  We just bought this SUV, upsizing as our 3 young kids get older and want to bring friends along. We live in a very snowy area and need AWD and were not thrilled with the idea of the Toyota Sienna. We looked at the Pilot, MDX, Highlander, etc. and were wholly unimpressed. Drove and bought this SUV the same afternoon. Great design and ridiculous pricing. GM is on the way back (probably bankrupt, but will re-emerge better than ever). Dont bother with the GM standard DVD, get an aftermarket for a fraction of the cost.

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  Nice improvement, but drivers seat is lacking - 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
  By Ligor - June 4 - 1:17 pm

  The car is improved in all but one criteria - where the old drivers seat (and also the passengers) was hard it was still good for long distance, the new one is softer and feels more comfortable until you are in it for more than 15 minutes. thats when it becomes apparent that the bottom cushion is now way short, and the bottom cushion side thigh support have been cut even shorter. my right foot got tired in 15 minutes - this is the same reason why i got rid of my Malibu after just 4 months. I could easily pay another $500 just to have Chevy make a better bottom cushion (Chevy if you need help go to Nissan and get theirs straight from the Altima). with 3 kids i need something this size, and the seat is a deal breaker - we will not be replacing tour 2016 Traverse with the new one sadly (unless GM fixes this quickly).

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  New Traverse v Outgoing Model! - 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
  By SN Beauti - April 30 - 12:16 pm

  2018LT v 2015LT Traverse First Impressions: The ’18 is noticeably longer, especially in White. 310HP much peppier than ’15 281. Transmission 9 Speed, no comparison, the old 6-speed was ‘clunky’ especially down shifting up a steep hill. Power Liftgate, standard on LT the ’15 was like breaking into a safe; chronic GM problem. Access to 3rd Row seat much better, roomier. ’18 Ride taunt and smooth, fantastic. ’15 was very good but much more ‘bouncy’. Steering Wheel smaller great size ’15 truck-size. Upgraded climate control system, dial in a temperature, dual zones and heated seats. Upgrade touch screens, colorful compared to ’15 black and white version. AWD-FWD-OFF Road transmission dial great, will save fuel in FWD mode. Stop-Engine Seem-less. Heated Seats, Remote Start, Cross Traffic and Backup Camera included in the LT. So far great vehicle only have 40 miles on it! I stole the ’18! Lease it for only $277 36mo 10K year. Put down only $2000 and first month payment…that included all the NYS Taxes ($1100). Marchase Chevrolet West Point Area worked their magic! It is amazing—Most Leases will pay about a hundred dollars more $375 month with a sticker Deal @ $415. Here is how I did it for $277 month • GM Card had $1000 over the years I have cashed in 12G’s on many vehicles • GM step ahead 4 months waived • Dealer bought out the ’15 Traverse from GM and created $1900 of equity for me! Vehicle was immaculate a 10 • GM Bonus $1500 with Step-A-Head ended November 30th • Competitor Cash since I owned Acura $750…think that is accurate • Loyalty GM Cash $500 • Dealer’s traditional discount • Discounts totaled about $7,700

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  Nice change from a family van - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By cpannarbor - March 18 - 9:36 pm

  We traded in our Mazda MPV for the Traverse. Out kids have adjusted to losing the sliding doors and really like the car. Mommy and Daddy love the car. It has great handling and acceleration. There is plenty of storage and too many great features to list.

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  Very , Very HAPPY! - 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
  By BRYAN - January 19 - 8:00 pm

  Had my Traverse for about 5 weeks. Drives great , well responsive good acceleration even loaded. Tows just as good as my Jeep GC. The best thing we like about is the interior. Especially the capts chairs in the second row. My gas mileage is about 21 mpg avg between hwy/cty. Better then my jeep which is about 18 mpg avg.