While its name may conjure up images of rocky hills and desert valleys, the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse, like most affordable midsize SUVs, is a crossover that’s all about getting large families around town in style. While the Traverse is a good all-around crossover, reviewers are particularly excited about its standard third-row seat, which seats adults comfortably. The 2011 Chevrolet Traverse was named The Best Midsize Crossover for the Money by U.S. News and World Report and TrueCar.com.
Other SUVs to Consider
Because the Chevrolet Traverse competes in a large and competitive class, you can find other options that cost less. However, it’s very tough to find a competitor that’s as well-rounded as the Traverse.
The Ford Flex gives the Traverse some stiff competition when it comes to style and interior comfort. The Traverse shares a platform with the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave.
Fleet vehicles--which is what rental cars are--are often of low trim level or (at the very least) lack any optional equipment. This means no navigation, no premium audio, and no advanced safety features. For example, our Traverse was built without GM's OnStar telematics system, which means no Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Roadside Assistance, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, or Hands Free Calling.
Retail purchasers of the Traverse are able to spec DVD-based navigation with USB/iPod integration, a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system, and flip-down rear seat DVD entertainment. Bluetooth hands-free calling isn't standard, but can be added as an option or included in one of the higher trim level packages.
Our 1LT trim model featured a rear-park assist feature that uses an ultrasonic distance sensor that beeps with increasing intensity as you approach an obstruction while in reverse. A better solution is the Traverse's available rear view camera, which displays through a small LCD behind the rear view mirror.
A vehicle the size of the Traverse should be able to haul people and bulky items, and fortunately the SUV excels in that respect. Available in seven- or eight-passenger configurations, the Traverse features a third-row bench seat that, while a bit cramped for adults, should fit up to three children with ease. The third row folds flat with a single pull, doubling the rear cargo.
Exterior
The Traverse sports the same stacked grille as the redesigned Chevy Malibu. Exterior features include:
Standard 17-inch wheels, with 18- or 20-inch wheels for uplevel models
Four-wheel-independent suspension
Interior
Like its siblings, the Traverse's interior has bright gauges and plenty of beveled plastics. Interior features include:
Standard cloth seats with optional leather
Optional heated and cooled seats
Optional navigation system
281-hp, 3.6-liter V-6
Standard front-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive
Safety
Safety features include:
Standard front and side-impact airbags, plus side curtain airbags for all three rows
Standard electronic stability system