The evolving world of 3-row crossovers has been fascinating to witness over the past decade here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis! We publicly ushered in the Chevy Traverse for the first time in 2009, where it smartly moved into the passing lane and left the "family truckster" segment far behind. More crossovers have edged in on the once-popular minivan space and have gravitated toward squared-off styling yo imitate the powerful body-on frame machines such as the Suburban or Tahoe.
One amazing detail that the 2024 Traverse boasts is proudly powertrain related, as there’s a smaller displacement turbo-charged 4-cylinder that is more powerful and efficient than the outgoing V6. To make things thoroughly sizzle for the coming days of summer and extra-long road trips, there’s also the addition of Super Cruise, the hands-free driving technology that allows you to kick back lavishly and enjoy the ride. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine now cranks out 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque and is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
We can fully understand the heaping amount of love drivers had for the legendary outgoing 3.6-liter V6, which served its purpose so well for two decades. Even though the newer engine is a bit smaller out of the gate, it still manages to pack 18 more horsepower and 60 more lb-ft of torque. Another category that’s surprisingly better when held up to the old engine is the EPA fuel rating, which sees an improvement of 2 mpg city and combined with FWD. When experienced test drivers got down to business and were seeing how the engine feels, the available torque on the low end offered up a smooth yet welcomingly-punchy character.
Minus the potential for abundant exhaust noise, this new 4-cylinder does absolutely get the 4,972-lb Traverse hustling rapidly along with a notable swagger. Every model now comes with rear automatic braking, blind-zone steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. Stepping up to the RS trim provides the inclusion of Super Cruise, which has embraced advances in technology such as Onstar to work its magic! Using real-time cameras and sensors, it is an additive that will make long drives much more comfortable.
This year’s model also flaunts another thrilling addition, as the off-road ready Z71 package’s protective gear and trail-ready chops will no doubt appeal to many avid adventurers. There’s a slightly lifted suspension to contend with the ruts and other imperfections of the wayfaring path, a host of protective skid plates underneath, and a twin-clutch AWD system. You’ll also be able to navigate a smooth pass through inclement terrain thanks to a new Terrain drive mode, which lends a helping hand with the brake while you have control of the throttle for daunting inclines.
The new Traverse’s frame is an inch wider than last year’s, offering a welcome boost in hip room in the cabin. The Autoweek.com testing crew loved the very easy third-row access available, thanks to the flipping second-row captain’s seats. Drivers have enthusiastically welcomed the infotainment screen spaces that are growing each year, and the 2024 Traverse is equipped with a 17.7-inch model that is joined with an 11-inch display. The Edmunds.com auto buffs praised the 2024 Traverse for being “the best-equipped and smoothest-driving bet for anyone with young ones to haul around!”