Monday, April 7, 2025

Turbocharged Triumph: 2025 Chevy Traverse Delivers Power Without the Pain at the Pump

2025 Chevy Traverse
If you're shopping for a three-row SUV that checks all the boxes—space, style, tech, and value—the 2025 Chevy Traverse should be high on your list. Since its debut in 2009, the Traverse has always been known for one thing: size. And for 2025, it’s not just bigger than the competition—it’s better, too.

We’ve had hands-on time with this vehicle here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, and we’re here to break down why the new Traverse might just be your next family favorite.

A Bigger, Bolder Crossover SUV

Let’s start with the basics. The Traverse is one of the largest midsize SUVs on the market, offering an incredible amount of interior space without feeling like you’re driving a full-size truck or a minivan. You get the room to stretch out and load up, but with the sleek, modern styling of a more rugged SUV.

Chevrolet refreshed the Traverse last year with a more aggressive, truck-inspired design—and for 2025, that bold styling carries over with even more tech and comfort inside. It looks tough, drives smooth, and delivers practical utility that fits everyday life.

More Features. More Value.

For 2025, Chevrolet has made the LT trim the new starting point. That means even the entry-level Traverse comes packed with premium features—like a power-adjustable driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, second-row captain’s chairs, and a hands-free liftgate.

Standard safety and convenience features now include:

  • Heated front seats and steering wheel

  • GPS navigation

  • Push-button start

  • Blind-spot monitoring

  • Front and rear automatic emergency braking

Want to level up? You can easily add upgrades like leatherette seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker premium sound system, and even GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Whether you’re after off-road capability (Z71), sporty looks (RS), or full-on luxury (High Country), there’s a Traverse for every style and need.

An Interior Built for Real Life

Inside the cabin, Chevrolet has gone big—literally. The dashboard is dominated by a massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital driver display. Powered by Google, the system is user-friendly and integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. There are still physical knobs and buttons for those who prefer traditional controls, which makes driving less distracting.

Design-wise, the RS trim even adds sporty red accents that set it apart. While it might not be as plush as a luxury SUV, the Traverse more than makes up for it with its generous list of features—and a more attractive price point.

Room for Everyone—and Everything

The Traverse can seat up to eight passengers, making it perfect for large families or anyone who needs flexibility. Captain’s chairs come standard in the second row for added comfort, or you can opt for a bench to maximize seating.

But where the Traverse really shines is cargo space. You get:

  • 22.3 cu-ft behind the third row

  • 56.6 cu-ft behind the second row

  • A whopping 97.6 cu-ft behind the front seats

That’s best-in-class for a midsize crossover. Whether it’s road trips, sports gear, or a Costco haul—this SUV is ready to carry it all.

And if you plan to tow, every 2025 Traverse includes a standard tow package and is rated for up to 5,000 pounds. No extra packages or guesswork—just capability built-in.

Turbocharged Power That’s Ready to Go

Under the hood, the Traverse now runs on a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It's quick off the line and offers more than enough muscle for highway merging or hauling a trailer.

Fuel economy is solid, too. You’ll see around:

  • 23 MPG combined (FWD)

  • 21 MPG combined (AWD)

We averaged 22 MPG in our AWD tester—a nice balance of performance and efficiency. While the engine is a bit louder than a traditional V6, its real-world fuel savings and strong acceleration make it well worth considering.

Smooth Ride, Confident Handling

Despite its size, the Traverse drives like a smaller vehicle. The ride is smooth, the steering is light and responsive, and the cabin stays composed even over rough pavement. Parking a vehicle this big is also easier thanks to the available 360-degree surround-view camera.

Want to relax even more on long drives? Add Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driving tech that can handle lane changes, acceleration, and braking on hundreds of thousands of miles of pre-mapped highways. It’s the kind of feature you usually find in premium brands, and it’s available right here in the Traverse.

Safety You Can Count On

The 2025 Traverse earns top scores in safety, including a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and a perfect 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s peace of mind built into every mile.

How It Compares

Compared to other big-name crossovers like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Volkswagen Atlas, the Traverse stands out in three key areas:

  • More cargo room

  • Larger touchscreen

  • Exclusive hands-free driving option

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a standout for growing families, road-trip warriors, and anyone who needs serious space without sacrificing modern tech or style. From its segment-leading cargo space to its new upscale features and powerful turbo engine, this is a crossover SUV built for real life.

Adventure-ready and road-trip approved. Come see how the 2025 Traverse hauls gear, people, and memories—schedule your test drive today!

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Massive, Muscular, and Mighty: The 2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71 in Action

2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71

Since its debut in 1995, the Chevy Tahoe has been a powerhouse—bold, capable, and undeniably fun to drive. The Z71 takes it up a notch, offering an off-road-ready package packed with exclusive features. Let’s dive into what makes this SUV a true adventure machine here at Jim Butler Chevy of St Louis.

What Is the Z71 Package?

The Z71 trim is Chevrolet’s go-to off-road upgrade for the Tahoe lineup. Designed for those who want full-size SUV comfort with serious off-road capability, the Z71 includes key enhancements like a specialized front axle and improved front bumper angles, making it easier to tackle mud, sand, and rough terrain.

Exterior: Bold Looks with Purpose

At nearly three tons, the Tahoe Z71 has a commanding presence. Its aggressive front grille and sleek LED headlights with automatic high beams add to its rugged appeal. A redesigned front bumper improves approach angles for off-roading, while skid plates and red tow hooks reinforce its adventure-ready stance. This trim also comes equipped with stylish 20-inch high-gloss black wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires for maximum grip.

Interior & Technology: Comfort Meets Cutting-Edge Tech

Inside, the Tahoe Z71 offers a spacious and upscale cabin, perfect for long road trips or a rough day that calls for a smooth ride. Premium leather-appointed seating and generous legroom make for a comfortable journey—44 inches in the front, 42 inches in the second row, and 35 inches in the third, ensuring that passengers of all sizes can stretch out.

The technology suite is just as impressive. A massive 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system pairs with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, putting everything at your fingertips. Standard features include a premium Bose surround-sound audio system, tri-zone automatic climate control, and wireless smartphone connectivity. Available upgrades include a panoramic power sunroof and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Performance: Power Options to Fit Your Drive

The 2025 Tahoe Z71 offers multiple engine choices, all paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive:

  • 5.3L V8: 355 hp / 383 lb-ft torque (15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway)

  • 6.2L V8: 420 hp / 460 lb-ft torque (14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway)

  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel: 305 hp / 495 lb-ft torque (20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway)

No matter which engine you choose, you’ll get strong acceleration, smooth power delivery, and the capability to tow heavy loads.

Ride & Handling: A Big SUV That Drives Like a Dream

Despite its size, the Tahoe Z71 delivers a refined driving experience. Its suspension system is tuned to handle rough roads with ease, and electric power steering makes maneuvering smooth and responsive. Available upgrades, like a front six-piston Brembo brake system, enhance stopping power, and the elevated driving position provides excellent visibility.

Safety: Peace of Mind Comes Standard

The Tahoe Z71 is loaded with advanced safety features, including:

  •  Forward Collision Alert

  • Automated Parking Assistance

  •  Rear Cross-Traffic Braking

  •  Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking

  •  Lane-Keeping Assistance with Lane Departure Warning

Pricing: What to Expect

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 comes well-equipped right from the start, offering an impressive blend of rugged capability and modern luxury. For those looking to elevate their driving experience even further, a variety of available packages add premium features that enhance performance, comfort, and convenience. 

The High Country Deluxe package includes an adaptive air suspension for an even smoother ride, a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, and advanced trailering aids that make towing easier and more intuitive. Whether you're seeking off-road dominance, long-haul comfort, or high-end tech, the Tahoe Z71 offers customization options to suit your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts: Is the Tahoe Z71 Right for You?

Big family? Big plans? The 2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71 offers spacious seating, top-tier technology, and the safety features you need for peace of mind. Whether it’s daily school runs, weekend road trips, or hauling the whole crew to practice, this SUV is designed to handle it all with style. Come see why families love the Tahoe Z71 at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis—schedule your test drive today!


Monday, March 24, 2025

The 2026 Chevy Trailblazer Packs Sleek Style, Clever Tech, and Sensational Comfort

Chevy Trailblazer
If you’re shopping for a small SUV that doesn’t skimp on style, space, or smart features — all while keeping your budget happy — the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer should be at the top of your list. This subcompact SUV delivers practicality and flair in equal measure, with available all-wheel drive for added confidence no matter where the road takes you from Jim Butler Chevy of St Louis

What’s New for 2026?

The 2026 Trailblazer arrives with fresh color options — say hello to Apex Red and White Sands, replacing Crimson Metallic and Nitro Yellow. While a spare tire and jack are no longer standard equipment, Chevy includes a tire inflator kit, giving you peace of mind without extra bulk. Expect to see these beauties arrive on our lot in fall 2025!

Smart Value, Built for You

Chevy continues its tradition of offering exceptional value with the 2026 Trailblazer. Whether you’re after simplicity and practicality or sporty style and added capability, there’s a trim to suit your lifestyle. The LT trim stands out as a customer favorite — especially when paired with available all-wheel drive — offering an ideal mix of power, comfort, and useful features without going overboard. 

And if you’re eyeing something larger, the Chevy Equinox is a great next step. But for those who want maneuverability, versatility, and substance all in one sleek package, the Trailblazer delivers.

Powertrain Choices That Fit Your Life

Every Trailblazer comes with a choice of two turbocharged 3-cylinder engines:

  • The 1.2-liter engine (137 horsepower) is perfect for everyday errands and zipping around town.

  • The 1.3-liter upgrade (155 horsepower) paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic is what we recommend, especially if you opt for AWD. It’s more capable and efficient, making highway drives and weekend getaways more enjoyable.

How Does It Drive?

The Trailblazer is built for comfort and practicality, though the RS trim’s big 19-inch wheels trade a little ride softness for style points. For the smoothest experience, consider the 17-inch wheels available on other trims. Overall, this SUV handles well in the city and is confident on open roads, with AWD models offering extra capability for winter conditions or light off-roading.

Fuel Efficiency You’ll Appreciate

  • Up to 30 mpg combined with the base engine and front-wheel drive

  • 27 mpg combined with the more powerful engine and AWD
    And if stretching every gallon is your priority, we’re happy to show you hybrids in our lineup as well.

Surprisingly Spacious Cabin

This SUV may look compact on the outside, but inside, you’ll find generous space for passengers and cargo:

  • 39 inches of rear legroom means adult passengers ride comfortably.

  • 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row lets you pack groceries, sports gear, or luggage with ease.

The cabin is packed with modern features, including a sleek digital gauge cluster, an 11-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, push-button start, and available heated seats and steering wheel in higher trims.

Pick Your Personality

  • The RS trim leans sporty, with bold black accents, red interior stitching, and chrome-tipped dual exhaust.

  • The ACTIV trim has an adventurous vibe with off-road-ready tires, a tuned suspension, and rugged exterior styling.

  • Want to stand out? Add a two-tone roof in head-turning colors like Copper Harbor or Cacti Green.

Top Safety Comes Standard

All Trailblazers come with Chevy Safety Assist, bundling advanced features like:

  • Forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking

  • Lane-keep assist and lane departure warning

  • Automatic high beams and a following distance indicator

The Trailblazer also boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS, giving you extra confidence on every trip.

Warranty Coverage

Chevy’s warranty coverage keeps you protected with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Plus, your first maintenance visit is on us!

Ready to experience it all for yourself? The 2026 Chevy Trailblazer brings together sleek design, smart technology, surprising comfort, and real-world practicality — all in a compact SUV that’s fun to drive and easy to live with. 

Whether you're running errands around St. Louis or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Trailblazer is built to fit your lifestyle. With standout trims, all-wheel-drive confidence, impressive fuel economy, and a spacious, tech-filled cabin, this SUV checks every box. 

Visit Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis today and take the Trailblazer for a spin — you’ll feel the difference the moment you get behind the wheel!