The Chevrolet Traverse: Spacious Comfort Meets Rugged Capability

The Chevrolet Traverse is a mid-size SUV that's been a mainstay in the family-hauling market for over a decade. Known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and towing capacity, the Traverse has carved out a niche for itself as a practical and versatile option for active families.

2024 Redesign

For the 2024 model year, the Traverse receives a significant overhaul, entering its second generation with a bolder design, updated technology, and a new focus on both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The exterior features a more chiseled and aggressive look, with a wider stance, a prominent grille, and LED headlights that extend into the fenders. The interior is similarly revamped, with a more upscale feel and a larger touchscreen that dominates the center stack.

Trims and Features

The 2024 Traverse is offered in four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and the new Z71. The base LS trim comes standard with a 3.6L V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Higher trims offer additional features like a sunroof, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a Bose premium audio system, and a surround-view camera.

The new Z71 trim is aimed at those who want a Traverse with more off-road capability. It comes with a slightly lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system that can send more power to the rear wheels when needed. The Z71 also gets unique exterior styling elements, including 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim.

Spacious and Comfortable Interior

One of the Traverse's biggest strengths is its spacious interior. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, even for tall adults. The third-row seat is surprisingly roomy as well, making the Traverse a true 8-passenger SUV. The cargo space is also generous, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row and a whopping 98 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

The Traverse's interior is comfortable and quiet, with good sound insulation that keeps road noise at bay. The seats are supportive and offer good adjustability, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The infotainment system is easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and clear menus. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Safe and Reliable

The Traverse comes standard with a suite of safety features, including Chevy Safety Assist. This system includes forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Higher trims add features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist. The Traverse has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), making it one of the safest SUVs on the market.

The Traverse is also known for its reliability. Chevrolet has a good reputation for building solid and dependable vehicles, and the Traverse is no exception. Consumer Reports gives the Traverse a "predicted reliability" rating of above average, which means that it is expected to have fewer problems than most other SUVs in its class.

Verdict

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is a compelling choice for families looking for a spacious, comfortable, and capable SUV. It offers a lot of features for the price, and it comes with a long list of standard safety equipment. The new Z71 trim adds a touch of off-road capability for those who want to explore beyond the pavement. Whether you're taking the kids to soccer practice, hauling groceries, or hitting the open road, the Traverse is a versatile SUV that can handle it all.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The Traverse is not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class. With EPA-rated fuel economy of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, it may not be the best choice for drivers who are on a tight budget.
• The third-row seat is best for children or short adults. Taller passengers may find it cramped.
• The infotainment system can be laggy at times.

Overall, the Chevrolet Traverse is a great option for families looking for a spacious, comfortable, and capable SUV. It offers a lot of features for the price, and it comes with a long list of standard safety equipment. With its redesigned exterior, updated technology, and new Z71 trim, the 2024 Traverse is sure to appeal to even more buyers.