The 2018 Chevy Traverse is a mid-size SUV known for its family-friendly features, spacious interior, power and performance, fuel efficiency, various trim levels, comfort, and technology.
Is the 2018 Chevy Traverse your ideal used SUV? Find out in our review
When it comes to used family SUVs, the 2018 Chevy Traverse is a solid choice. Despite its imposing presence on the road, it’s considered a mid-size SUV. Inspired by its larger GM siblings like the Tahoe and Suburban, the Traverse is designed to be more manageable while comfortably accommodating up to eight adults. Let’s take a closer look at what this model has to offer.
Power and performance: Under the hood, the 2018 Traverse boasts a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering a robust 310 horsepower. This powerplant is paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission and offers the option of all-wheel drive. Notably, it can tow up to 2,268 kilograms, making it a capable choice for those needing towing capabilities. The Traverse’s flexible rotary dial system lets you easily switch between front-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and a special towing mode, showcasing GM’s engineering prowess.
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While an optional turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is available in the RS model, the V6’s power and performance make it a more appealing choice for most buyers in this segment.
Fuel efficiency: In terms of fuel efficiency, the all-wheel-drive Traverse achieves approximately 13.7 L/100 km in the city and 9.4 L/100 km on the highway. If you opt for the front-wheel-drive model, you’ll enjoy slightly better fuel economy at around 12.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 L/100 km on the highway, which could translate to long-term savings at the pump.
Trim levels and features: The 2018 Traverse comes in at least six trim levels, each offering various modern conveniences and safety features. You can find options like a hands-free rear liftgate, power-folding third-row seats, and a clever hidden storage compartment behind the centre dash display monitor. Leather interiors, heated/ventilated seats, and a rearview monitor are also available. The rearview monitor is especially innovative, as it displays through the rearview mirror.
Comfort and technology: The Traverse is designed to provide a comfortable and secure ride. However, some of you may find its abundance of safety alerts and beeping features a bit intrusive. It alerts you when you get too close to the car in front, change lanes abruptly, brake suddenly, and even back out of a parking spot. While these safety features can be appreciated, some drivers might see them as overbearing. On the other hand, the stoplight auto stop feature, which turns off the engine at stoplights, is a welcome addition to fuel efficiency.
Teen driver technology: If you have teenage drivers in your household, the Traverse offers “Teen Driver Technology” to help keep tabs on their behaviour behind the wheel. This system mutes the audio until front seat occupants buckle up and can activate advanced safety technologies. It even provides a report card on your teen’s driving habits, allowing you to coach them effectively.
Connectivity: Like many other GM vehicles, the Traverse includes a mobile app that enables remote start, door locking/unlocking, navigation input, and parking reminders.
In conclusion, the 2018 Chevy Traverse is a spacious mid-size SUV with a range of features that cater to families. It offers a comfortable ride, impressive towing capabilities, and various trim levels to suit different preferences. However, its numerous safety alerts may not be for everyone.
AT A GLANCE
Engine: 3.6 litre V6
Transmission: nine-speed automatic
Drive: FWD/AWD
Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque: 266 ft. lb @ 2800 rpm
Fuel Economy: 12.9 L /100 km (city) & 8.7 (hwy.) FWD model. Regular fuel.
Some Alternatives: Dodge Journey, Nissan Rogue, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Wrangler, Nissan Murano, Toyota 4Runner, Ford Flex, VW Atlas, Kia Sorento.
Manufacturer’s Site: Chevrolet
Ted Laturnus has been an automotive journalist since 1976. He has been named Canadian Automotive Journalist Of The Year twice and is past president of the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).
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