One year after Chevrolet gave its largest crossover model a thorough redesign, the Traverse is carried over for 2019 with the larger interior and sharper styling introduced last year helping keep it competitive in a crowded vehicle class.
Changes are very minor: on the outside, top-trim Premier models get new tailgate badging, and Premier and High Country models can be optioned with chrome roof rails. Inside, the heated steering wheel is now automatic and eliminates the on/off switch.
The Traverse's more significant details are unchanged. Most trims are powered by a 3.6L V6 that makes 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque and comes with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. A 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, good for 255 hp and 295 lb-ft, is available too, but only in an RS trim that is exclusively FWD.
Regardless of powertrain, the transmission is a nine-speed automatic. If you opt for AWD, one unique feature is that its operation is driver-selectable; if you don't push the button on the dash, you don't get four-wheel traction.
The first-generation Traverse was a decade old and had seen only minor updates since its 2008 introduction, so this new model is a big boost that helps Chevrolet justify a price tag that touches the $60,000(!) mark (with options) thanks to sharper looks and a higher-quality cabin environment.
Where most mid-size, three-row crossover models max out at seven seats, Chevrolet adds an eighth thanks to a third row with a third seatbelt in it. We have our doubts about how often that middle position will get used, at least by anyone of adult size. Second-row seating is for two or three, depending on whether you stick with the basic three-place bench or opt for a pair of buckets.
Chevrolet offers a good list of active safety gear here, but none of it is available below the Premier trim in which forward collision alert, lane keeping assist, low-speed automatic braking and pedestrian braking are standard. High Country trim (that's the $60,000 version) gets all-speed automatic braking. We question Chevy's decision to limit these features to the Traverse's high-end variants when numerous of its competitors offer them at lower prices.
The range begins in LS trim, which gets 18-inch wheels, black exterior trim, 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and HID headlights.
Move up to LT to add body-colour door handles and side mirrors, heated front seats, power tailgate, power driver's seat, remote engine start, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist, 8.0-inch touchscreen and fog lights.
True North brings 20-inch wheels, dual-pane sunroof, 120-volt power outlet, power front passenger seat, 10-speaker stereo, navigation, leather seating, surround-view exterior camera and GM's nifty rearview camera mirror.
Premier is where things start to get fancy, with chrome exterior trim, hands-free tailgate, the aforementioned active safety gear, LED headlights, power-adjustable steering column and wireless smartphone charging.
High Country trim is largely differentiated by trim-specific wheels and power-folding third-row seats.
Fuel consumption estimates are 11.7/9.0 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 2.0L engine and FWD; 12.9/8.7 with the V6 and FWD; and 13.7/9.4 with V6/AWD.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
