Chevrolet Traverse

Shopping for a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse? MSRP: $29,510 - $40,885

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The Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover that first went on sale as a 2009 model and currently is in its first generation. The vehicle is based on General Motors’ flexible Lambda platform, which underpins similar vehicles like the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and the former Saturn Outlook. The Traverse essentially replaced the Uplander minivan and TrailBlazer SUV in Chevrolet’s lineup and offers seating for up to eight thanks to its third-row bench. Second-row captain’s chairs are also available but carrying capacity is then reduced to just seven.

The big crossover is competitively priced from about $30,000, close to the sticker on its closest rival, the Ford Flex. The Traverse’s big advantage is its direct injected 3.6-liter V-6 engine, which affords it one of the best fuel economy ratings in its class. Despite weighing some 4,925 pounds, the Chevrolet Traverse achieves a fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise. All-wheel-drive versions fare slightly worse, achieving a fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The impressive figures (for such a big vehicle) are helped by the vehicle’s six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts gears very smoothly but can hesitate when downshifts are called for.

Peak output is rated at 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque for models equipped with a dual exhaust, or 281 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque for models with a single exhaust. With 90 percent of peak torque available from approximately 2,500 rpm to more than 6,000 rpm, the engine offers flexibility few rivals can match.

The Chevrolet Traverse is also one of the safest vehicles in its class, scoring well in independent crash testing and in NHTSA crash tests as well.

The latest Chevrolet Traverse is available in three levels of trim, LS, LT, and LTZ, as well as either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. All models get four-wheel independent suspension and StabiliTrak stability control, as well as wheel sizes measuring 17, 18, and 20 inches. Some of the vehicle’s options include a rearview camera, power liftgate, a DVD player and XM Satellite Radio, plus heated and cooled front seats. Up-spec models can also be fitted with a rear spoiler, 20-inch aluminum wheels, a dual-exhaust system, perforated leather, and a panoramic sunroof.

Chevy will update the Traverse for the 2013 model year with a new front end more like the one on the latest Malibu sedan. The powertrain will get some new programming, though the V-6/six-speed will remain mechanically the same. New infotainment features will be introduced, permitting mobile app operation from inside the Traverse, and Chevy will add to the crossover's safety gear with the addition of a front-center airbag, fitted to a revamped interior.

Production of the Chevrolet Traverse takes place at GM’s Delta Township plant in Lansing, Michigan. Interestingly, the Traverse name was originally used for a concept car at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show that would go on to become the smaller Chevrolet Equinox, which launched in the 2005 model year. The current Traverse was instead inspired by 2005’s Chevrolet Sequel concept car.

Angular Rear Exterior View - 2010 Chevrolet Traverse FWD 4-door LS

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