Chevrolet adds a new variant to their crossover family. The new 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, introduced in the Chicago Auto Show in February 2008, is truck-like crossover SUV but with easier navigation and light fuel consumption.
Infused with the designs of the acclaimed Chevy Malibu 2008, the Chevy Traverse has sleek lines and generally acceptable design. The Traverse provides a large seating space, with the third row large enough for three adults to sit comfortably. The second row includes bucket seats or a bench that can haul seven or eight people, respectively. The Traverse also boasts a large cargo space: 24 cubic feet with all seats up.
Performance-wise, the Traverse can do pretty much everything a SUV does, but more efficiently. With a MPG of 17/24 for the front-wheel drive model and 16/23 for the all-wheel drive, the Traverse provides best fuel economy for an 8-passenger SUV.
All three Traverse models (LS, LT, and LTZ) are all equipped with direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Handlings are crisp, considering its size and weight, and the engine is impressively quiet during cruise.
For those concerned with safety, the Traverse is packed with five-star safety features, including ABS, traction control, antiskid system and front side and curtain side airbags. Available features include DVD entertainment, navigation system, satellite radio, and a rearview camera.
All in all, the Traverse earned a thumbs-up. Easy to handle, comfortable and fuel-efficient, the Traverse is a good choice to consider.