2024 Chevrolet Traverse Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

Chevrolet's Traverse family-size SUV has historically been good mostly for traversing suburban blacktops rather than climbing rocky trails, but the three-row crossover has been updated for 2024 with an emphasis on capability. It remains a spacious option in the mid-size SUV segment and is still offered in value-oriented road-going trims, but the lineup has been beefed up with a more rugged look and an off-road-oriented Z71 version. We don't expect to see that model going hub-to-hub with the Ford Bronco out on the trails, but its twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system is at least more robust than what's offered on the Traverse's other trims. A turbocharged four-cylinder is the only engine, a departure from V-6–powered rivals such as the Honda Pilot, the Hyundai Palisade, and the Kia Telluride. Chevrolet has also upped the Traverse's tech game for 2024; all models come with a massive touchscreen infotainment display and a host of standard driver aids. Even GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving mode is available as an option, something that may give the Traverse the edge it needs to muscle in on its rivals' territory.

What's New for 2024?

The Traverse enters a new generation for the 2024 model year, complete with a rugged new look and a new Z71 off-road trim. The Z71 model comes with a slightly lifted suspension, a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system, all-terrain tires, and unique 18-inch wheels. The racy-looking RS trim replaces the Premier and High Country models as the range-topper this year and wears 22-inch wheels, a sportier suspension tune, and black exterior trim. The base LS and mid-range LT trims remain, and all Traverses come with the same 315-hp 2.5-liter turbo-boosted four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The Traverse will be offered in four distinct trims this time around, and we think the LT represents the best value. The base LS is already fairly well equipped, but the LT adds second-row captain's chairs, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a power rear liftgate, and roof rails for carrying additional cargo. Going with the LT also unlocks the ability to add an optional sunroof, a Trailering package, and GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving feature.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine resides under the hood of every Traverse model and the only transmission is an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is optional, otherwise, the powertrain drives the Traverse's front wheels. The gussied-up Z71 trim offers more capability off-road and comes standard with a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system, different suspension damping, all-terrain tires, and terrain-specific driving modes. During our first test drive, we weren't impressed by the Traverse's steering, which feels slow and truck-like. While the Traverse isn't particularly engaging to drive, its ride is comfortable and family-friendly. A firm brake pedal provides plenty of reassurance and body roll is kept in check nicely by the suspension.

0–60-MPH Times

Acceleration feels adequate, but the throttle response is on the lazy side. The turbo four also emits some uncouth noises and vibrations when you get deep into the throttle. We estimate that the 2024 Traverse should hit 60 mph in as little as 6.5 seconds. When we get a chance to test the Traverse for ourselves, we'll update this story with acceleration test results.

Towing and Payload Capacity

With the optional Trailering package, the Traverse can tow up to 5000 pounds. The package is available on all but the base LS trim and includes a heavy-duty cooling system, a 220-amp alternator, and a special "Hitch View" to the exterior camera system.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA estimates the most efficient Traverse trim should be good for 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. That makes it more efficient than the outgoing V-6 model in the city but represents no improvement on the highway. We'll also take the new Traverse on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route when we can test for its real-world mpg. For more information about the Traverse's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

If you're hauling a big family, the Traverse is nicely set up for such a task thanks to its massive interior. The base LS trim seats eight in its three rows, but all other trims come with second-row captain's chairs that reduce capacity to seven riders. The third row is even spacious enough to stuff a pair of adults should the need arise, and the seat bottom is high enough off the floor to avoid the squatting seating position where your knees are unnaturally raised. There are several large storage bins, including one on the center console ahead of two large cupholders and another below the console that is accessible from both the driver and passenger side. With all seats folded down, the Traverse is among the most cargo-friendly SUVs in the class, with over 97 cubic feet of space. When we get a chance to test it, we'll pack the Traverse's interior with carry-on suitcases to see how much cargo it can hold.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard on all Traverse models and uses Chevrolet's latest Google-based software interface. An 11.0-inch digital gauge display is also standard and provides the driver with a few configurations to display information of their choosing. A wireless smartphone charging pad and an onboard Wi-Fi connection are also available.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Chevrolet provides a host of driver-assistance features as standard, including pedestrian and bicyclist detection systems and automatic high-beam headlamps. For an extra fee, you can order a Traverse with GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving mode on LT and Z71 models; it's standard on the RS. For more information about the Traverse's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Standard lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
• Available hands-free driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The only thing that distinguishes the Traverse from its peers in terms of maintenance coverage is a free initial maintenance visit. Otherwise, the warranty coverage offered by Chevrolet is average for the segment.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for the first visit

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