2024 Chevrolet Traverse First Drive Review: Big Family Hauler Gets A Lot More Interesting
Jun 06, 2024 - 5 minute read
Chevrolet has been busy creating some stellar vehicles over the past few years. This time, the all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse has struck a chord with those looking for a proper three-row SUV that isn’t too big and costly. The Traverse was always a quality vehicle that customers loved. But now, with its complete redesign, Chevy has taken its non-Tahoe three-rower and put it above many in the segment.
First Drive Review
The popular automotive news and review website Autoblog.com got some seat time in the all-new Traverse in the RS and Z71 trim levels in a first-drive review. They came away praising how Chevrolet reinvigorated the three-row crossover to better compete against the ever-growing list of SUVs. In a world crowded with large vehicles, the new Chevy Traverse is a refreshing vehicle for buyers.
All-New Engine
To match the new styling and overall design aesthetics, Chevrolet did away with the old 3.6-liter V6. In its place is a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-4 that produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 17 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque. Autoblog said of the engine, “The new 2.5-liter engine is a worthy fit for the Traverse. Like a good four-cylinder should when paired with a massive SUV like this, it keeps quiet and out of its own way. It delivers power quickly, just as the engineers promised it would, thanks to the short pathway between the intake and the twin-scroll turbocharger … there is more power on tap, and it arises in a linear and predictable fashion.”
Special Engineering To Increase Power and Efficiency
New “ePhaser” technology helps the Traverse increase efficiency compared to the outgoing vehicle. Engineers developed the ability for the engine to regulate the camshaft and either advance or delay the spark of the motor, depending on whether the engine needs more power and torque or needs to increase fuel economy. Front-wheel drive models can achieve 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, respectively, while all-wheel drive trims will get 19 city and 24 highway.
The Z71 Is An Off-Road Champ
The special off-roadable Traverse Z71 had the author feeling confident off the beaten path. The author found that the SUV could tackle rough terrain very well, especially if you are driving on dirt and gravel roads going to campsites or cabins: “Our first stint in the 2024 Traverse took place in the Z71 on grass and dirt trails on the expansive property of Foxhall Resort outside Atlanta. Carrying speed in Off-Road mode, gliding over undulations and dodging the odd flock of geese, our first impression (and most lasting) was that the Z71’s ride is extraordinary. The combination of all-terrain tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels and the tuning of the Z71’s suspension turned the otherwise choppy terrain into a comfortable conveyance. Transitioning from lumpy grass to rutted dirt two-tracks, we continued, keeping our pace around 40 to 45 miles per hour, and marveling at just how undisturbed the cabin remained despite the violent interactions occurring between rubber and earth.”
The RS Model Is Really Good, Too
Later, they took the new RS model out on the town to experience its luxury and amenities on the open roads. This is where the dual mode of the Traverse came into view. There is a trim level for each type of customer. Autoblog said, “Our drive in the RS took place on actual roads outside of Atlanta, some of which were actually curvy. The Traverse handled itself well. Slicing through the corners was work, with steering that was properly weighted if a little artificial in its feel. It traced through the curves with no problems, the car feeling a bit smaller on the road than it looks from outside. The ride, again, was comfortable, despite the massive 22-inch wheels exclusive to the RS.”
Super Cruise Is Super Amazing
GM Super Cruise has become an industry standard and possibly the greatest success of General Motors over the past few years. Super Cruise is state-of-the-art, hands-free driving technology. It transforms a vehicle on long drives, especially when the whole family is in the car. It’s a safe and convenient way to relax on trips. Autoblog raved about the driver assistance tech, saying, “Adaptive cruise control comes standard across the Traverse lineup, but GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving technology is available in the LT and Z71, and standard on the RS. And, man, Super Cruise just keeps getting better. We were able to activate it on a number of two-lane highways off the beaten path; places we were surprised it would be available (and GM is looking to expand its network to cover 750,000 miles across the U.S. and Canada by the end of next year). Super Cruise remains a trustworthy companion, capable of taking over some driving duties without scaring the crap out of you and, importantly, being clear but not annoying in the instances it needs you to resume full control.”
In Conclusion
At the end of their time with the new Traverse, the journalists came away impressed and loving the SUV. Chevrolet has hit a home run, and Autoblog basically says just that, “While we’ve got a lot more to explore when it comes to the 2024 Chevy Traverse, what we’ve experienced so far is impressive. It drives well, it’s roomy, the tech is good, it’s far more stylish than before and its new trim levels cater to a greater variety of tastes. It’s much more worthy of your consideration than before, even in a world where crossovers like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride exist. We’re excited to get more time behind the wheel with a full load of passengers and cargo – especially in that Z71.”
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