Chevrolet Traverse review

The Chevrolet Traverse starts at $40,700 for the base Traverse LT. This is the bare-bones model with a bench in the second row, but the captain’s chairs are on offer.

Next up is the $47,800 Z71, a new model to the line-up that raises the suspension up by an inch and marries the powertrain to a twin-clutch AWD system for better traction control over rough terrain. This is the same system found on the GMC Acadia, the Traverse’s mirror-universe twin, and it fares about the same here.

The Traverse High Country is the most premium version available, with 22-inch wheels, power folding rows, and a number of stylish accents to bolster the look. This one’s $53,800.

Lastly, the Traverse RS sits at the top of the range and won’t come down from it unless you’ve got at least $54,100. This is the ‘sporty’ version – 22-inch wheels, blacked-out everything, bright interior accents and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Lovely, except that there are no performance improvements, so you’ll just have to make ‘vroom-vroom’ noises with your mouth.

Which one should I go for?

We’d be loath to spend too much money on a Traverse, but we’d gravitate to the Z71. Not because it’s particularly awesome, it just happens to be the most capable choice. Its extra hardware won’t compel us to seek off-road adventures, but we’ll take it for the times conditions go south.

Competitors? The Kia Telluride remains a favorite all-rounder with a decent price and better hardware. Toyota’s Highlander doesn’t exactly thrill us, but it’s quite bullet-proof and executes what’s asked of it in a superior manner. Nissan’s Pathfinder and its honkin’ V6 is another strong contender.