“The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV that offers plenty of space, power, and features for families who need an all-around and comfortable vehicle.”
This is the simple and comprehensive definition of Traverse. It was true and straightforward when GM’s big crossover was launched six years ago.
As we roll into late 2023, the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is gearing up to hit the showrooms soon.
The burning question: Is the current model still a good choice, even with strong competition out there?
As GM gears up to launch more electric vehicles in the years ahead, it’s clear that traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles still have a significant role to play. In the next few months, we’ll be taking the new Traverse for a spin, testing it out on the road, and putting together a detailed review to share all the details.
This article is about the outgoing model and for potential buyers, who would be interested in a mature product that does not necessarily have the latest technology and features. We tested the mid-range RS trim level with the AWD.
The Traverse competes in the crowded mid-size SUV segment, but it stands out with its attractive starting price, handsome styling, and smooth ride. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as ordinary interior quality, flat handling, and limited availability of advanced driver-assistance features. In this review, I will evaluate the Traverse based on its performance, design, comfort, safety, and value.
2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD: Performance
The Traverse is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and responsively. The engine provides enough power for most driving situations, such as merging, passing, and towing up to 5,000 pounds. The Traverse also offers a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the trim level and preference.
The fuel economy is decent for a large SUV, with an estimated 13.7 L/100 km in the city and 9.4 L/100 km on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive model is slightly less efficient, with an estimated 14.9 L/100 km in the city and 9.6 L/100 km on the highway¹.
Design
The Traverse got a facelift in 2022, giving it a more modern and aggressive vibe with updates to the front fascia, grille, headlights, and taillights. Despite its truck-like size, the inside is roomy and practical, though it lacks a bit in luxury and style. Expect hard plastics and budget fabrics, especially in the base trims. Spring for the higher trims for a touch of leather and chrome, but it still falls a bit short compared to some competitors in terms of quality.
On the tech side, the infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, six USB ports, and wireless charging. If you’re into extras, there’s the option for a Bose 10-speaker sound system, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment setup.
Comfort
Despite not being the newest, the Traverse impresses with its comfort and convenience. At 5.2 meters, it’s in the full-size SUV league, providing spacious cabins across three rows. Even the third row is surprisingly roomy for a midsize crossover. With captain’s chairs in our test run, we comfortably seated six, and the seats are not just comfy but adjustable, with optional heating and ventilation.
Storage is ample, boasting 651 litres behind the third row, 1,790 litres behind the second, and 2,781 litres behind the first. A smart-slide feature makes accessing the third row a breeze. The ride? Smooth and quiet, thanks to suspension tuning and noise cancellation—be it cruising from Toronto to Niagara Falls or tackling pothole-ridden streets.
Safety
The Traverse comes standard with several driver-assistance features that enhance safety and confidence on the road. These include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors with rearview camera². However, some common features in other SUVs are either optional or unavailable on the Traverse. These include adaptive cruise control (only available on the High Country trim), front parking sensors (only available on the Premier and High Country trims), surround-view camera (only available on the High Country trim), head-up display (only available on the High Country trim), and rear pedestrian detection (not available at all)². The Traverse also has not been rated by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its crashworthiness².
Price
Our test model, priced at $57,373, sits in the middle range with $2,625 in added options, along with freight, destination charge, a/c fee, and dealer charges factored in.
The Traverse stands out for being one of the most budget-friendly three-row SUVs in the market, offering a solid value proposition. However, it’s worth noting that as you climb up the trim levels for more features and luxury, the price takes a significant jump. Take the High Country trim, for instance, starting at CAD 68,198—an investment that puts it in competition with newer models boasting enhanced quality and performance. So, whether the Traverse is a bang for your buck depends on your budget and what you’re looking for.
Conclusion
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is a solid choice for families who need a large and comfortable SUV with a reasonable price tag. It offers a powerful engine, a smooth ride, a spacious cabin, and decent features. My colleague Dan at AutoAndRoad was very critical of the mediocre interior quality, lacklustre handling, and limited availability of advanced driver-assistance features.
We are excited to wait and see how the new, 2024 Traverse will respond to a market of high-quality products in a very competitive market.
For more information please visit: https://www.chevrolet.ca/
