Road Test: 2018 Chevrolet Traverse AWD
Story by Brenda Washington, photos courtesy of Chevrolet Canada
Specifications:
Price: $54,290 (MSRP for Premier Trim)
Engine: 3.6L DOHC 24-valve V6
Trans: 9-speed automatic
Power: 310 hp@ 6,800 rpm
Torque: 266 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
Curb Weight: 4,680 lbs./ 2,123 kg
Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 12.9/8.7
New for 2018: The newly styled Traverse has a more squared off look to it and a bold hexagon shaped grill. It gains an extra 2 inches on the wheel base but loses just a little cargo space from the previous years’ model as well as a little weight. The extra space is found in the second and third row of seating allowing more legroom. With the double sunroof you get a feeling of airy roominess. There is a rubbery charging mat in the center console to grip your phone while charging and all models come standard with OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and a 3 month free trial. The noise cancelling cabin allows peace and quiet for a more relaxing drive. With the push of a button you have access to a hidden compartment behind the 8” diagonal Chevrolet Mylink screen. You can even enter a 4 digit pin for added security.
Segment Competitors: Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas, Mazda CX-9, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Murano, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder
The Skinny: Our test model, the Premier trim, is fitted with all the creature comforts. With leather seating and loads of safety features, up to 14 available, like pedestrian detection, blind spot warning and automatic emergency braking, it also included captain seats in the second row. The Smart Slide system is the key to easily sliding second row seats to glide back and forth so that the third row will accommodate more than just a small child without compromising any leg room. You can even find a charging plug in the third row which is nice but the second row passengers are treated to heated seating which is a pleasant little bonus.
Pros: Projected lit Chevrolet symbol below the back hatch lets you know where your foot needs to be for the tail lift to be activated.
Cons: No electric control for the sunroof shade.
The Verdict: This is a definite contender for anyone with a family that goes on long road trips and wants to travel in style and comfort.
Extra: For the parents of “Teen drivers”, you can have an extra pair of eyes. This vehicle allows you to link a key fob to certain vehicle safety settings. One of them being to mute the audio until the front-seat occupants are belted in. The in-vehicle report can inform you on distance traveled, speed, and near misses so that you can help your teen develop safe driving habits.
