NEW Z71 TRIM ADDS MORE OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY TO CHEVY’S TRAVERSE SUV
After going nearly a decade between the first and second generation with only a mild facelift in 2013 following its debut in 2009, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse embarks on its third generation just six years after entering its second in 2018.
Premier and High Country models give way to RS at the top of the portfolio while LS and LT serve as base and mid-range trims. This review is based on the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71.
Though classed as a mid-sized SUV, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is big enough to accommodate three rows of seating and still leave plenty of storage space even with that last row in place.
The first two rows offer over 40 inches of legroom each and the back row provides riders with 32.1 inches, leaving 22.9 cubic feet for storage space.
Fold that back row and cargo capacity increases to more than twice that (56.2 cubic feet) behind the second row. Max capacity is just over 144 cubic feet. (If you need more, buy a truck.)
The turbo-4 engine may be smaller than the 3.6-liter V6 in the 2023 model but it packs a slightly bigger punch and is slightly more fuel efficient. The 4-banger produces 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque to the 310/266 from the V6.
An 8-speed automatic transmission replaces the 9-speed in the previous generation.
Fuel economy in the turbo-4 is rated at 20 miles-per-gallon city, 27 highway and 23 combined with front-wheel drive to the 18/27/21 for the V6 with FWD. All-wheel drive drops the figures to 19/24/21 for the 4-banger compared to the V6’s 17/25/20.
With an optional towing package that features a “hitch view” for the rear-view camera and is available on all but the base LS trim, towing capacity is listed at 5,000 pounds.
The cabin of the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 features captain’s chairs for the second row that reduce seating to seven. The driver and front passenger get heated seats, and a heated steering wheel is included as well.
A new 17.7-inch touchscreens dominates the dash with Google-based software capability. A wireless Smartphone charger and onboard Wi-Fi connectivity are among standard tech features. Z71 and LT models get premium Evotex synthetic seating surfaces while the top-of-the-line RS trim comes with leather seats for the first and second rows.
Chevy’s hands-free driving system Super Cruise is available as an option on the 2024 Traverse Z71 and LT and standard on the RS trim.
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 rides on 18-inch wheels shod with all-terrain tires to enhance off-road ventures. Ground clearance also has been increased an inch, but that doesn’t intrude on getting in or out.
What I liked about the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: The spacious interior is easy to get in an out of and has nice storage room behind the third row. That third row also can handle adult occupants. The huge touchscreen offers user-friendly access to tech features. The surround-view camera is a big aid in parking.
What I didn’t like about the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: The engine has enough power to move its considerable heft (2,043 pounds FWD, 4,703 AWD), but it does so somewhat under protest with a noticeable engine drone when pressed. Desirable feature like Super Cruise and a panoramic sunroof quickly push the base MSRP over the $50,000 mark..
Would I buy the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71? Too big for me. It may be classed a mid-size but it has the feel of a large SUV and with all the issues (such as parking) of dealing with a larger vehicle.
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