Chevrolet kicked off the press preview portion of the Detroit Auto Show by introducing the next-generation 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. It marks the first time that Chevy has fully redesigned the full-size crossover since it was introduced for the 2009 model year.
The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
Redesigned inside and out, the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse was given a much-needed update. Taking design cues from the Tahoe and Suburban, the Traverse was made to look bolder and stronger. A touch of premium was added via chrome accents and LED signature lighting.
Its sheetmetal was completely overhauled, giving the crossover a more upright and boxy design compared to the outgoing model's bulky, oval shape. It is still roughly the same size but with a longer wheelbase.
The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse will be available in seven trims, including two new variants: the sporty RS and the top-of-the-line High Country.
The RS package is the blacked-out version of the Traverse, with a black chrome grille, black bowtie and 20-inch wheels. The High Country trim comes with D-Optic LED headlamps, a power folding third row, leather and suede seats, 20-inch polished wheels, a standard twin-clutch AWD system, and plenty of High Country badging.
Interior
Space and storage were put at the forefront of the Traverse's interior design as you'd expect from the family-oriented vehicle. That's saying something considering the outgoing model was already one of the roomiest crossovers available.
The 2018 Chevy Traverse seats up to eight people, houses 24 storage compartments, and offers a slew of technologies to keep everybody safe and connected. Chevy says that it expects segment-leading cargo space, passenger volume and third-row legroom.
Chevrolet's Smart Slide® system has been improved as well. It features a new split-folding second-row seat. The curbside seat is also capable of sliding forward even with a forward-facing child seat in place.
Standard on all trim levels is Chevy's Teen Driver system and a rear-seat reminder that detects when someone or something in one of the back rows. There's also a hands-free liftgate available with a Chevy bowtie lamp that will illuminate to show you exactly where you need your foot to be to active the system.
As for technology, the Traverse will house the latest and greatest Chevrolet has to offer. There's a seven- or eight-inch MyLink infotainment touchscreen, USB ports for all three rows, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and plenty of available safety features.
These include surround view cameras, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, and low- and high-speed forward automatic braking.
Under the Hood
Chevrolet has updated the Traverse's engine for added power. It will house a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 305 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It's mated to GM's latest Hydra-Matic 9T50 nine-speed automatic transmission, and both front- and all-wheel drive are available.
However, the RS trim level gets its own engine — a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder with 255 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This is exclusively available with front-wheel drive.
Front-wheel drive models are rated at a GM-estimated 18 city/25 highway mpg, while the RS's 2.0-liter checks in at 20 city/23 highway. General Motors did not release combined or AWD ratings.
Both engines feature new stop/start technology, and the 2018 Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Pricing and Availability
Chevrolet hasn't announced any official pricing for the 2018 Traverse, but they did say it will arrive at dealerships in the fall. The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse will be built at GM's Lansing Delta Township Assembly factory in Michigan.
