An Eye on the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse: Strides and Stumbles in the Midsize SUV Race
In the realm of three-row SUVs, competition remains tight and the fight for market share is a continuous tug of war. Amidst the hustle, Chevrolet seems keen on clinching the upper hand with its overhauled 2024 Traverse. This new contender presents an attractive balance of family-oriented safety, assertive design, and a promising powertrain, although it notably stumbles in its lack of a hybrid variant.
Meet the 2024 Traverse: Aggressive, Capable, Ambitious
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse re-imagines the idea of an SUV with its truck-like proportions and bold design, striving to establish a distinct identity in the midsize SUV landscape. Available in four trims - LS, LT, Z71, and RS, the Traverse extends the luxury of choice to its prospective owners. Each variant comes with unique design touches, expanded safety features, and technologies that reflect Chevrolet's drive to woo a broader customer base.
The Traverse is powered by a new 2.5L turbocharged engine, boasting an impressive 315 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, a notable 19% surge from previous models. Matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an optional all-wheel drive, the Traverse seems ready to handle roads less traveled, particularly with the Z71's off-road-capable twin-clutch AWD system. However, despite this impressive powertrain, the Traverse's lack of a hybrid option could be a sticking point for environmentally-conscious customers.
Traverse Z71: Built for the Off-Road Enthusiast
The Z71, a standout in the Traverse lineup, targets adventurers with a slew of off-road-focused features. From a notable increase in ground clearance to a unique front fascia designed to improve approach angles, the Z71 holds its own in rugged terrains. Other distinguishing features include the unique dampers, all-terrain tires, and a specific Terrain Mode.
Not Just Power, but Safety Too
The Traverse is commendably forward-thinking when it comes to safety features and driver assistance technologies. Standard on all models is Chevy’s Safety Assist suite, which includes a variety of alerts, automatic braking, and lane keep assist. In addition, there are new features aimed at young drivers and passengers, including an updated Buckle to Drive function and Rear Seat Belt Reminder. These additions are a step in the right direction, emphasizing the Traverse's family-oriented ethos.
Bold, Rugged, and a Touch of Class
The redesign of the 2024 Traverse is framed by a purposeful silhouette that hints at a blend of crossover and truck-inspired design elements. The new model flaunts a planted stance, with wheels pushed to the corners for a commanding presence. Each trim has unique accents, adding to its distinct personality, while a range of tech-forward features graces the interior, promising a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
A Peek Inside: Comfort and Connectivity
Inside, the Traverse is spacious and technologically advanced. It boasts an industry-leading 17.7-inch-diagonal color touchscreen, numerous connectivity options, and seating configurations for up to eight passengers. OnStar® provides a range of safety, entertainment, and convenience features, alongside the Traverse’s best-in-class max cargo capacity of 98 cubic feet. With all these features, Chevrolet seems to strive for not only a comfortable drive but also a connected experience.
Coming Soon: A Promising Contender with Room for Improvement
The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will hit the roads in early 2024, underscoring Chevrolet's commitment to its SUV lineup. Despite its extensive list of features and the marked improvements over the previous model, the Traverse's prospects will likely hinge on its ability to compete in an already crowded market. Its success will be a true test of how the automaker's decisions, from powertrain options to design elements, resonate with the target audience. For now, the Traverse emerges as a notable contender in the midsize SUV segment, though the omission of a hybrid variant reminds us that there's still room for progression.
-Ed
2024 Chevrolet Traverse
