Revised: September 22, 2023
The Chevrolet Traverse is a midsize, three-row crossover utility vehicle with room for seven or eight. Launched in 2009, the Traverse arrived late to the market that had already transitioned to crossovers. The delay, though, is attributable to GM sticking with its family of traditional body-on-frame SUVs, including the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. The Traverse is twinned with the Buick Enclave.
Chronicling the Changes
2023 – The Traverse is a carryover model for the final year of its second generation.
2022 – A refreshed Traverse debuts with updated headlights and taillights charting the changes. The Traverse gains an all-new infotainment system equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Chevrolet continues to add more driver-assist safety features as standard equipment.
2021 – A new Chevrolet Safety Assist package replaces the previous Driver Confidence II package.
2020 – Chevrolet discontinues the turbo-four, once again making the V6 standard with all grades.
2019 – The lone change this year introduces an all-new 8-inch touchscreen display.
2018 – A more modern and sophisticated design accompanies the all-new second-generation Chevy Traverse. An updated V6 engine produces 310 horsepower and works with a 9-speed automatic transmission. A new turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard on select grades. Expanded passenger room and cargo space along with a new infotainment system with smartphone connectivity are among the other highlights for 2018.
Second-Generation Chevrolet Traverse
2017 – For its final model year, the first-generation Traverse sees the LTZ grade renamed the Premier.
2016 – An LS grade is the new base model for the Traverse line. Also, enhanced OnStar capability is realized through the new 4G connectivity.
2015 – Models equipped with the Chevrolet MyLink interface gain Siri Eyes Free this year.
2014 – Standard forward collision alert and lane-departure warning are added to the top-end LTZ grade. All models gain a pair of charge-only USB ports.
2013 – Exterior and interior styling changes are the most noteworthy updates this year. Also, the Traverse gains a new infotainment system interface and additional standard safety features.
2012 – Once again, only light changes were offered this year.
2011 – Light changes accompany the Traverse for its third model year.
2010 – Following its successful debut in 2009, the Traverse is unchanged for 2010.
2009 – Out with the TrailBlazer and in with the Chevy Traverse. GM launches a line of midsize crossovers spanning four brands: Chevrolet, Buick, Saturn, and GMC. This quartet features room for as many as eight and offers standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. The Traverse comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its maximum towing capacity is 5,200 pounds.
First-Generation Chevrolet Traverse
Chevrolet Traverse Considerations
In the Traverse, Chevrolet has a strong entry in a largely unforgiving segment. Three-row crossovers are today’s family vehicles and nothing short of solid models is acceptable in consumer eyes.
Among the Traverse’s chief competitors are the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and the Ford Explorer. Also, the Mazda CX-9, Kia Telluride, Dodge Durango, Volkswagen Atlas, and the Subaru Ascent.
See Also — All-New 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Features Bold Design & Overhauled Powertrain Strategy
Image by IFCAR – Own work, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons
Image by Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
