First introduced to the mid-size crossover market in 2009, there are plenty of used Chevy Traverse models floating around these days. As a family-friendly SUV with seating for seven to eight passengers, it’s hard to beat. Currently, in its second-generation, there are some things you should know about purchasing one of these pre-owned vehicles.
First Generation
Produced from 2009 until 2017, the first-generation of Traverse models have two powertrains to choose from. First was a 3.6-liter V6 coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. Together, they generated 281 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. The second used the same engine and transmission with the addition of dual exhaust. This upgrade pushed the engine’s performance up to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque.
In 2010, the Traverse badges on the front doors were removed from the mid-level LT trim. When 2013 rolled around, it was time for a significant facelift. Sporting a new grille, restyled front fascia, tail lights inspired by the iconic Camaro, and a redesigned liftgate, this revised version of the Traverse was quite a looker. The Chevy MyLink radio with a touchscreen interface came standard on all trims along with wood interior accents. Buyers could choose between cloth or leather upholstery, depending on the trim level. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive became optional, and there were several new wheel styles as well. On higher trims, a Bose stereo system was added.
By 2014, Chevrolet engineers shifted their focus to safety. With so many SUVs available on the market, it was getting harder to stand out as the best family vehicle. With safety systems such as forward collision alert and lane-departure warning, the American automaker was able to put the Traverse back in the spotlight. Other updates for this production year include dual USB ports and a new stereo system.
Again, no cosmetic changes were made the following year. The only changes came in the form of redesigned 18-inch wheels and the introduction of Siri Eyes Free. This voice-recognition system allowed drivers to speak certain commands for the vehicle to follow. For example, one might make calls or even answer texts hands-free.
In 2016, OnStar services were added as an extra safety feature. In the event of an accident, the system had the ability to alert emergency responders. A 4G LTE Wifi hotspot was also included to keep passengers connected everywhere. New 20-inch aluminum wheels became an option as well as Leather and Driver Confidence Packages.
For its final year of production, the first-generation Chevy Traverse saw no changes side from having its top-tier LTZ trim level renamed Premier.
Second Generation
As you may have noticed, Chevrolet kicked off the life of the Traverse with some pretty great features. Needless to say, if you happen to come across a first-generation used Chevy Traverse, it may be head-and-shoulders above other SUVs from that era. However, if you’re looking for an even better used Chevy Traverse, you should keep your eyes peeled for a second-generation model.
Currently still in production, the second generation was released for 2018. First unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this newer model proudly displayed a truck-based body style as opposed to the former curvy style from the first generation. It looked like a petite Tahoe. The wheelbase was extended by 2-inches, and the overall length was stretched by 0.7-inches. Even though this version was bigger than the previous model, it lost 111 pounds. This was an attempt to make the vehicle more fuel-efficient.
Under the hood was a 3.6-liter V6 engine mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Together, they pumped out 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Buyers could also opt for a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generated 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Second Generation Trims
Available in eight trim levels (all of which were offered with FWD or AWD), the base L model included start-and-stop technology that helped to save money on gas. If the driver was stopped in rush hour traffic or at a traffic light, the engine would automatically switch off to save on fuel consumption. Upon pressing the accelerator pedal, the engine would seamlessly switch back on. This vehicle also came with stability and traction control for better handling, a tire pressure monitoring system, and Teen Driver Technology. This provided parents with a progress report about how well their teenage driver was doing.
Also included at the base level were several advanced features such as a rearview camera, the MyLink Infotainment system, a 7-inch touchscreen, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Bluetooth connectivity was also added along with steering wheel-mount audio controls and six USB ports throughout the cabin. Push-button start technology, and a tri-zone climate control system were standard as well.
The LS trim didn’t add much to that long list of features except for rear privacy glass to prevent passersby from peeking inside.
Next, the LT Cloth model added a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and satellite radio. Fog lamps were added for optimized visibility, and roof rails make it easy to travel with oddly shaped items on top of the vehicle. The LT Leather model received several safety features, including Surround Vision with Bird’s-Eye View, rear park assist, blindspot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The infotainment interface was upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen display and featured a navigation system. Heated leather seats provided comfort during the winter, and the 10-speaker premium Bose stereo was a great bonus.
Stepping up to the luxury Premier trim added heated and ventilated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and larger wheels. A wireless charging pad was included to help keep the cabin decluttered from cables. This model also came with a hands-free liftgate, making it easy to load up the back with groceries or sports gear.
The top-of-the-line High Country version included a panoramic sunroof and advanced safety systems such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and emergency braking. A tow package was also added for families who like to take their boat to the lake on the weekends.
Second Generation Special Editions
As for special editions, there was the RS and the Redline. The RS was based on the LT trim and added a black grille, window trim, and roof rails. This darkened aesthetic was completed by the addition of 20-inch Dark Android-painted wheels made of aluminum. The Redline Edition was based on the Premier model. It featured a dual panoramic moonroof, all-black exterior accents, darken tail lamps, and 20-inch black wheels with red stripes. The Driver Confidence II Package also added the advanced safety features seen on the High Country model.
Buying A Pre-Owned Chevy Traverse
There have not been any significant changes made to the second-generation of Traverse vehicles. So, if you want a pre-owned SUV that is loaded with all the latest technology and luxury features, look for a second-generation used Chevy Traverse.
