Overview
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is a completely new model from A to Z, both inside and out. While General Motors (GM) working on electrifying its model range, ICE models will remain crucially important still for a long time. And it is more so in the category of three-row SUVs like the Traverse.
Our tester was the more offroad-oriented Z71 trim with not-so asphalt-friendly tires, and an extra inch of ground clearance, reflecting a less urban style. Honestly, this was not my preferred version of the Traverse since I mostly drove on Ontario highways from Niagara Falls to Kingston.
Together with my colleague Dan, we, as autoandroad.com had an extensive test drive with the new Traverse. Before going into details, I can tell that the new Traverse is a huge improvement while there are several areas where GM could have done a better job or will do so throughout the life of this generation.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Performance and Engine
Starting with the engine, the absence of a V6 option might be disappointing for some customers. The engine is also noted to be noisy and not particularly efficient, Now, the Traverse has a modern turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine delivering 328 horses and about a similar amount of torque.

The most important problem we immediately noticed is that the power peak of the new engine is relatively high in the rev scale, namely between 3,500 and 5,500 rpm respectively. The level looks sky-high for a turbo-fed powertrain in a large vehicle. This feature also leads to a noisier cabin. We hope that GM, with its vast experience, put additional efforts for refining this engine. A big plus is that all-wheel drive is standard at least in Canada.
The new 2024 Chevy Traverse comes with an 8-speed transmission. This helps for a smoother ride and gear changes. But, unlike the bigger SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe, there is no two-speed transfer case. and the hard-core offroading is not in the nature of the Traverse. You can choose the low-gearing mode at the steering wheel and honestly, we had a hard-time to find the control. The same is true is for the four-way hazard lights, which is installed in the overhead console.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Infotainment System
One of the standout features of the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is a very good infotainment system. The new, 17.7-inch diagonal touchscreen is perfect for visibility and easy access to all functions. The quick adaptation of Google Maps is highly successful, and the system itself acts fast, with modern and easily accessible controls. Physical controls are also well-designed, providing a good balance. For short, the new infotainment screen is one of the best features of the new, 2024 Chevrolet Traverse.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Interior and Space
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse has, (and had) also in the previous generation a spacious interior. And with the 2024 model, it got only better thanks to a more intelligent interior design. The shifter at the steering wheel column creates extra space in the centre console making the space between the front seats roomier and very practical. However, the center console is somewhat monochromatic, with too much plastic. This kind of cost-cutting measure is not unique to Traverse and GM has probably spared it as an improvement for mid-cycle refreshment.
This test drive was also a good opportunity to test the new-generation Super Cruise. Unlike some dreamers, I believe that fully autonomous driverless vehicles are at least one decade away if not longer. Until then, driver-assistance systems will get better and better and will help drivers for a safer and more comfortable experience. Super Cruise is a perfect example. Once the highway or a section of it is defined in the system and added to the map, you can let the vehicle drive, accelerate, slow down, and change lanes under the watchful eye of the driver. And it worked so well in the busy QEW between Niagara Falls and Hamilton, for a moment I thought, if we have reached the age of fully autonomous driving. The dream ended as soon as I wanted to leave QEW and took the Casablanca Boulevard Exit in Grimsby.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Seating and Cargo
GM’s big crossover offers flexibility with seating options, including both bench seats and captain chairs in the second row meaning that buyers have an 8-passenger option. While you can fit a stroller behind the third row, but, you still question if the third-row space legroom could be a bit wider. Still, compared to some models like the VW Atlas, this model’s third row feels a bit wider and longer, although the driving experience feels more truck-like than the Atlas.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Fuel Consumption and Driving Experience
The fuel consumption of GM’s crossover is high, about 2 liters per 100 km more than the Atlas, a comparable 3-row SUV. However, the option to switch between 2WD and 4WD is a convenient feature, and the low-gear mode is a nice addition. The Z71 model has a different differential with torque vectoring, enhancing the driving experience. Despite the off-road tires, driving on the highway is comfortable with some high-revving engine noise. To sum it up, the Traverse in the tested Z71 package is not a vehicle for hardcore offroading even if the appearance is different.
I am optimistic that a self-charging (and also a plug-in) engine would be a great option for the Traverse and its corporate twin, the GMC Acadia. It is not realistic to expect a BEV-Traverse at least in this generation and these hybrid options would help to a smoother transition and extend the life of the current generation Traverse and Acadia.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Design and Additional Features
While the 2024 Traverse’s exterior design is impressive, it’s surprising that it does not come with a trailer hitch as standard; it must be installed separately. The direct access to Google and the intuitive shortcut for far control are notable positives. However, overall, the console design and the abundance of plastic detract from the interior’s appeal.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Conclusion
The new, 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offers some excellent features, particularly in terms of space, seating flexibility, and infotainment. However, the powertrain refinement, including new engine options, fuel efficiency, and interior design, leaves room for improvement. GM has probably already planned it, but a hybrid and/or plug-in hybrid option would be a great advantage hopefully to be available at the early stages of this model generation.
It is almost unbelievable to me why GM doesn’t offer trailer hitch hardware and leaves the burdensome work of installing one to the customer.
For more information including the engine specs and seating and cargo measurements,
please visit:www.chevrolet.ca