For 2024, Chevy has rolled out major changes to the popular Traverse SUV. With more power, an upgraded interior, and larger LCD screens, Chevy seems to have enhanced almost every part of the Traverse. Interestingly, these changes haven’t inflated the price. Compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander in the US, the Traverse is now thousands of dollars cheaper, offering great value in its class. The new features and competitive pricing could make it a strong contender for the SUV of the Year. Let’s dive into what makes the Z71 model worth a closer look.
Why Consider the 2024 Chevy Traverse?
The Traverse’s new base price is $38,900, which includes destination fees. This is significantly cheaper than its closest competitors, like the Grand Highlander (about $5,000 more expensive) and the Grand Cherokee L (around $1,000 more). In comparison to smaller three-row SUVs, the Traverse’s value becomes even more evident. The Z71 trim, which offers off-road capabilities, begins at $47,995, with additional equipment bumping it slightly above $50,000. Yet, even with this price increase, it still undercuts the Honda Pilot Trail Sport by about $11,000.
Exterior Upgrades and Design Details
The exterior of the 2024 Traverse features a more aggressive, truck-like design, particularly in the new Z71 trim, which is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. The Z71 includes:
- All-terrain tires
- An additional inch of ground clearance
- Unique dampers
- Skid plates
- Tow hooks
- A Terrain Mode for improved off-road capability
Front-End Styling
The Z71 trim is marked by its distinctive badging and grille design. All models feature full LED headlights and turn signals, while the Z71 adds functional red tow hooks and underbody skid protection.
Chevy has also designed the front bumper with shiny black plastic accents—though some may find it too much, especially for off-road use. Notably, the headlights are positioned lower than the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and turn signals, contributing to a unique look.
Dimensions and Ground Clearance
2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduces its third generation with a blend of updated styling and substantial dimensions, positioning it prominently in the midsize SUV category. Below is an overview of its key exterior measurements:
Dimension | Measurement |
---|---|
Length | 204.5 in |
Width (without mirrors) | 79.6 in |
Width (with mirrors) | 87.9 in |
Height | 69.6 in |
Wheelbase | 121.0 in |
Ground Clearance | 6.8 in |
Front Track | 67.3 in |
Rear Track | 67.0 in |
These dimensions contribute to the Traverse’s spacious interior and versatile cargo capacity. Notably, the 2024 model is slightly smaller in certain aspects compared to its predecessor. It is 1.4 inches shorter in length, 0.7 inches narrower in width, and 0.8 inches lower in height. Despite these reductions, the wheelbase remains unchanged at 121 inches, ensuring ample interior space.
The ground clearance varies by trim level. The standard models have a ground clearance of approximately 6.8 inches, while the Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, offers increased ground clearance of up to 7.8 inches.
In comparison to Chevrolet’s full-size SUVs, the Traverse’s dimensions are notably different. For instance, the 2024 Tahoe measures 210.7 inches in length and 81.0 inches in width, making it larger than the Traverse in both aspects.
Off-Road and Performance Features
Equipped for more rugged use, the Z71 trim includes a re-tuned suspension, unique 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and extra ground clearance. Unlike the RS trim’s sporty suspension tuning, the Z71’s setup leans into off-road performance.
Both trims feature dual-mode dampers, optimizing the ride by adapting to road surface changes. These components work together, enhancing off-road comfort and capability, allowing the Z71 to tackle trails at speeds up to 45 mph.
Interior Comfort and Tech
Front and Second-Row Features
Interior comfort varies across trims, with base models lacking the powered seats seen in the Z71. The Z71 trim includes four-way lumbar support, a welcome feature missing in many competitors.
It also offers captain’s chairs in the second row, allowing easy access to the third row, even with a child seat anchored in place—a feature surprisingly absent in other family-oriented SUVs.
Third-Row and Cargo Space
The Traverse’s third-row seats are spacious and comfortable, offering more headroom than the Grand Highlander. With about 10–15% more cargo space behind the third row than most competitors, the Traverse can accommodate larger suitcases. Underfloor storage also adds functionality, and Chevy has retained a spare tire in a compartment below the cargo area for added convenience.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Interior Features
- Seating and Comfort:
- Seven- to eight-passenger seating capacity.
- Ample headroom and legroom in the first two rows.
- Optional captain’s chairs for a premium feel and easier third-row access.
- Infotainment System:
- Standard 17.7-inch color touchscreen.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Available digital gauge cluster for a modernized instrument panel.
- Premium Materials:
- Enhanced materials across trims with mix of soft-touch and durable plastics.
- RS trim features sporty interior accents, including a flat-bottom steering wheel and red detailing.
- Cargo Space:
- 23 cubic feet behind the third row.
- 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded.
- Maximum of 98.2 cubic feet with both rear rows down, among the most spacious in its class.
- Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance:
- Automatic Emergency Braking.
- Front Pedestrian Braking.
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning.
- Forward Collision Alert.
- IntelliBeam automatic high beams.
- Rear Park Assist and other advanced safety technologies.
- Convenience and Connectivity:
- Wireless phone charging pad.
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
- Multiple USB ports for charging and connectivity.
- Panoramic dual-glass sunroof with power sunshade (available on LT, standard on RS).
- AutoSense Power Liftgate, which opens automatically when sensing the driver’s presence.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Safety Features
Chevy has addressed previous criticisms by equipping the 2024 Traverse with a robust list of standard safety features. These include:
- Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Reverse autonomous emergency braking
- 360° camera system
Chevy’s 360° camera system, rarely standard on base models in this segment, sets the Traverse apart from competitors like Honda and Toyota.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Engine and Performance
Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
The 2024 Traverse ditches the V6 for a more efficient 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, it’s more powerful and refined than the Grand Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to either the front or all wheels, with Z71 models featuring a torque-vectoring rear differential, providing enhanced control and stability on rugged terrain.
Technology and Infotainment
Standard Displays and User Interface
Chevy has gone all-out with tech on the Traverse, outfitting all trims with a 17-inch central touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument cluster.
The central screen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with integration that spans both screens for a more immersive experience. Physical controls are provided for climate settings, so drivers aren’t entirely reliant on the touchscreen.
Super Cruise Option
Chevy’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, available on trims above the base model, is among the most advanced on the market. While adding Super Cruise increases the price by $3,800, it offers a premium hands-free driving experience that outperforms similar systems from Ford and Stellantis in smoothness and lane accuracy.
Driving Impressions
On-Road Performance
The Traverse impresses with smooth handling and responsive power delivery, especially in the RS trim. Chevy has tuned the Traverse’s 2.2-liter turbo engine to feel responsive, even under heavy acceleration.
With a stopping distance of under 118 feet from 60 mph, the Traverse also boasts impressive braking capabilities, thanks to the RS trim’s wide tires and larger contact patch.
Off-Road Capability
The Z71 trim handles trails comfortably, with its off-road suspension and all-terrain tires soaking up rough terrain. Although it’s not an extreme off-roader, the Traverse’s dual-mode dampers make it versatile enough for mild to moderate trails, ideal for weekend adventurers.
Pricing and Value
Chevy has priced the Traverse competitively, starting at $38,900 for the base model and reaching up to $55,500 for the fully loaded RS.
The pricing strategy keeps the Traverse accessible while adding features like active noise cancellation and a spacious interior that rivals costlier models. Chevy’s ability to include so much standard technology at a lower price point than competitors is impressive, reinforcing the Traverse’s position as a value-packed SUV in 2024.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse: Trim Levels, Features, and Pricing
Chevrolet’s 2024 Traverse offers a range of trims, each bringing specific features and conveniences to meet different needs, from practical family use to sporty adventure.
1. LS (Base Model)
The entry-level LS offers a solid array of standard features at an accessible price point:
- Price: Starting at $38,995
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic.
- Drivetrain: Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for $2,000.
- Seating: Up to eight passengers, with cloth upholstery.
- Infotainment: A 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital driver info center with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Safety: Chevrolet Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera.
2. LT
Adding extra comfort and technology, the LT is ideal for family-friendly features:
- Price: Starting at $41,395
- Seating: Heated front seats and power-adjustable driver’s seat, available with either second-row captain’s chairs (7-passenger setup) or a bench seat (8-passenger).
- Convenience: Hands-free power liftgate, wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt power outlet.
- Options: Available Super Cruise™ hands-free driving system for long road trips.
3. Z71 (Off-Road Focused)
The Z71 trim equips the Traverse with off-road capabilities and rugged design:
- Price: Starting at $47,795
- Drivetrain: Standard AWD with a twin-clutch rear differential for enhanced traction on rough terrains.
- Suspension: Off-road tuned suspension and increased ground clearance.
- Wheels/Tires: 18-inch high-gloss Black machined-face wheels with all-terrain tires.
- Exterior: Unique design elements, including red tow hooks, skid plates, and a Z71-specific grille.
- Interior: Jet Black Evotex seats with red stitching, giving a bold look to complement its off-road capabilities.
4. RS (Sporty and Tech-Enhanced)
The RS offers a sportier design and advanced tech, making it a high-end choice in the Traverse lineup:
- Price: Starting at $55,595
- Exterior: 22-inch high-gloss Black-painted aluminum wheels with blackout styling, including the grille and roof rails.
- Interior: Leather-appointed seats with red accents, flat-bottom steering wheel, and ambient lighting.
- Technology: Enhanced Driving Package, featuring Super Cruise™, a Bose audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.
0-60 Time
2024 Traverse replaces the previous 3.6-liter V6 engine with a more potent 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four. This new powertrain delivers 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, marking improvements of 18 horsepower and 60 pound-feet of torque over the prior model.
Although official 0-60 mph acceleration times have not been released, the increased power and torque suggest a quicker response compared to the previous generation.
2024 Chevy Traverse Improved Fuel Efficiency
The new turbocharged engine not only boosts performance but also enhances fuel economy. Front-wheel-drive models now achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive versions see 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. This represents a notable improvement over the previous V6 engine’s fuel efficiency.
Competitors of 2024 Chevy Traverse
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse enters a highly competitive midsize three-row SUV market, facing off against some well-regarded rivals.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse competitors in the midsize SUV segment:
Model | Engine | Horsepower | Seating | Cargo Space | Towing Capacity | Starting Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chevy Traverse | 2.5L Turbo, 4-cylinder | 328 HP | Up to 8 | 23 cu ft (3rd row); 98.2 cu ft (folded) | 5,000 lbs | $38,995 |
Toyota Grand Highlander | 2.4L Turbo, 4-cylinder | 265 HP | Up to 8 | 20.6 cu ft; 97.5 cu ft | 5,000 lbs | $43,070 |
Honda Pilot | 3.5L V6 | 285 HP | Up to 8 | 18.6 cu ft; 87 cu ft | 3,500-5,000 lbs | $37,090 |
Ford Explorer | 2.3L Turbo, 4-cylinder | 300 HP | Up to 7 | 18.2 cu ft; 87.8 cu ft | 5,300 lbs | $36,760 |
Hyundai Palisade | 3.8L V6 | 291 HP | Up to 8 | 18 cu ft; 86.4 cu ft | 5,000 lbs | $35,990 |
Kia Telluride | 3.8L V6 | 291 HP | Up to 8 | 21 cu ft; 87 cu ft | 5,000 lbs | $35,990 |
- The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander offers a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This SUV is designed to comfortably seat up to eight passengers, with a generous cargo capacity of 20.6 cu ft behind the third row and an impressive 97.5 cu ft with the seats folded. With a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, the Grand Highlander starts at $43,070, and it offers a fuel economy rating of 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. Its spaciousness and functionality make it a strong contender in the segment.
- The 2024 Honda Pilot brings a 3.5L V6 engine that generates 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It also accommodates up to eight passengers, with a cargo capacity of 18.6 cu ft behind the third row, expandable to 87.0 cu ft with seats folded. With a towing capacity that varies between 3,500 lbs for FWD and 5,000 lbs for AWD, the Pilot starts at $37,090. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, making it a versatile option for both families and adventurers.
- Next, the 2024 Ford Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This SUV seats up to seven and provides a cargo space of 18.2 cu ft behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cu ft when folded. With a towing capacity of 5,300 lbs and a starting price of $36,760, the Explorer delivers on performance and practicality, with fuel economy ratings of 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
- The 2024 Hyundai Palisade features a 3.8L V6 engine, putting out 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It also seats up to eight passengers, with a cargo capacity of 18.0 cu ft behind the third row and 86.4 cu ft with seats folded. The Palisade offers a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, and with a starting MSRP of $35,990, it presents an attractive blend of luxury and affordability. Its fuel economy stands at 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway.
- Finally, the 2024 Kia Telluride shares its platform with the Palisade and comes with a 3.8L V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It accommodates up to eight passengers, offering slightly more cargo space than the Palisade, with 21.0 cu ft behind the third row and 87.0 cu ft when seats are folded. With a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs and a starting price of $35,990, the Telluride is known for its high-quality interior and reliability, boasting fuel economy ratings of 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Warranty Overview
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse comes with a comprehensive warranty package to ensure peace of mind for new owners. Here’s a breakdown of what this warranty covers:
- Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: This covers the entire vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, addressing almost every component across the vehicle.
- Powertrain Warranty: Extending to 5 years or 60,000 miles, this coverage is designed for the engine, transmission, and drive systems, providing security for critical mechanical parts.
- Emission Control Systems Warranty:
- Federal Emissions Control Warranty: For light-duty cars or trucks, this covers emissions-related components for 2 years or 24,000 miles, while specific components, like catalytic converters and engine control modules, are covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles.
- California Emission Control System Warranty: Vehicles that conform to California regulations are covered for emissions-related components for 3 years or 50,000 miles, with select components extended to 7 years or 70,000 miles.
- Roadside Assistance: Chevrolet offers roadside services, including towing to the nearest authorized dealer, lockout assistance, flat tire changes, battery jump-starts, and emergency fuel delivery. Coverage durations vary, and details can be confirmed with your specific plan.
- Courtesy Transportation: If the vehicle requires warranty repairs, Chevrolet provides alternate transportation or reimburses specific transportation expenses, allowing owners to stay on the road while their vehicle is serviced.
- Corrosion Protection: This protects all body and sheet metal components against corrosion for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
- Rust-Through Protection: Body and sheet metal components are covered against rust-through, meaning any actual holes in the metal, for 6 years or 100,000 miles.
- First Maintenance Visit: Chevrolet includes the first service visit, which typically covers an oil change and tire rotation.