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- Highs Muscular new design, plenty of room for people and cargo, good ride and handling.
- Lows Disappointing interior materials in high trim levels, feels its size at low speeds, lacks rear-seat entertainment system.
- Verdict The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse hauls people and cargo with ease, handles well for a large SUV, and offers a long list of standard and optional features.
Overview
Based on size alone, the Traverse excels at transporting both people and cargo. With an all-new design for 2018, Chevrolet addressed what might have been the Traverse’s biggest negative: its minivan-like appearance. The new Traverse is square-jawed and truck-like, and it loses none of its usefulness in the makeover. It features a new and contemporary infotainment system, a more refined cabin, and available high-end goodies that push the big three-row crossover upmarket. Its V-6 engine is both gutsy and fuel efficient, and the Traverse’s suspension provides a compliant ride while maintaining its composure in corners. The second and third rows can accommodate adults comfortably, and there are plenty of cupholders and USB ports throughout the cabin.
What's New for 2018?
Chevrolet has completely redesigned the Traverse for 2018—and not a moment too soon—with new, more masculine styling, modern connectivity, nicer interior materials, more efficient powertrains, and the latest safety features. The Traverse has retained the previous generation’s mammoth size, interior spaciousness, and family friendliness, all the while reducing its big-crossover weight.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- L: $30,925
- LS: $33,595
- LT: $36,095
- RS: $43,595
- Premier: $45,995
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Traverse is powered by a new generation of GM’s 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6 that has been reworked for better fuel efficiency and drivability. The engine pulls strongly and provides plenty of go for merging into traffic or passing slow-moving vehicles. Most of the time, the new nine-speed automatic’s velvety shifts are almost imperceptible, although downshifts can become a bit abrupt when you drive aggressively. A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine will be added to the lineup but will be offered on only front-wheel-drive variants. The Traverse's comfortable ride, well-coordinated handling, and decent braking performance make it a solid all-rounder, but when parking or maneuvering at low speed, it feels every bit its size. Pick up the pace, however, and the big Chevy feels smaller than it is—poised, if not overtly athletic. The Traverse’s suspension is tuned for a good balance between handling and ride comfort; body roll is well controlled, and bumps transmit very little noise into the cabin.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Traverse provides spacious accommodations for seven or eight passengers, including a third row sized for adults. The materials in the top-level High Country trim are handsome but fall slightly short of expectations given that version’s lofty price. Buyers of the Traverse’s entry-level trims are treated to a durable interior with straightforward controls and enough style to avoid looking basic. Step up to the High Country and you’ll find faux-suede inserts on the door panels and dash, finely grained leather seating surfaces with embroidered logos, and a color-matched vinyl-wrapped instrument panel. A three-zone automatic climate-control system is standard across the range and offers rear-seat passengers a control panel for temperature and fan speed as well as a variety of vents to distribute air flow. With 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with both the second and third rows of seats stowed, the Traverse edges out most rivals in carrying capacity.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Traverse's MyLink touchscreen system is simple to use, with colorful graphics on the high-mounted display. Touchscreen infotainment—with either a 7.0-inch or 8.0-inch screen—is on the menu in each of the Traverse’s trim levels. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are seven USB ports strategically placed in all three rows of the cabin. A Wi-Fi hotspot powered by a 4G LTE data connection is also standard; navigation is optional. The only item missing here is a rear-seat entertainment system. The clue as to why is in the Traverse’s options list: Buyers can order one of two different headrest-mounted tablet holders, including one that can charge the device and adds additional USB outlets.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Chevrolet Traverse’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
