Chevy’s 2024 Traverse loses V-6, gains style and off-roadability
Chevrolet’s previously mild-mannered Traverse gets a new attitude with a ground-up redesign for 2024, including an off-road-capable Z71 package, a designation previously reserved for the Bowtie’s more truck-like models.
“Our new Traverse is designed and engineered to act and look more like an SUV,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “Led by the all-new Z71, the 2024 Traverse builds on the success of its predecessor and will undoubtedly enable us to be in more customer driveways.”
The new Traverse will be offered in four trim levels: the base LS, the mid-level LT, the more rugged Z71, and the luxurious RS. That’s two fewer than are available now, on the 2023 model, which offers a Premier and a High Country trim. Don’t feel shortchanged, suggests Chevy; the 2024 Traverse will “offer unique design and greater content choices, with all-new and enhanced safety features and technologies across the lineup.”
Reportedly built on the same 121-inch wheelbase as the 2023 vehicle, which is now five years old, the new Traverse isn’t expected to grow much overall, but Chevrolet hasn’t provided specific dimensions; overall length of the current model is about 206 inches. It is certainly more aggressive-looking now, though, with front-end styling that mimics that of the Tahoe and Suburban.
Arguably the biggest change is under the hood: Gone is the venerable 3.6-liter, 310-hp V-6, replaced with a 315-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Torque, the measure of pulling power, is up considerably, from 266 lb-ft to 317 lb-ft, a 19 percent increase. Even so, maximum towing capacity remains 5000 pounds.
Fuel economy figures aren’t yet available, but they should improve on those of the 2023 model: 18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive version, and 17/25 for the all-wheel-drive one.
The transmission for 2024 will be an eight-speed automatic, down from a nine-speed. The Z71 will be all-wheel-drive, with a bespoke twin-clutch system that will help put the power on the ground.
Speaking of the Z71, expect it to have an inch more ground clearance, increased track width, and a set of all-terrain tires coupled with 18-inch wheels exclusive to the trim. There’s a unique front fascia purposely designed for improved approach angle, with an aluminum skid plate and signature Z71 red tow hooks. There are also unique dampers with hydraulic rebound, a Terrain Mode added to the suite of driver-selectable drive modes, Hill Descent Control, and a standard trailering package.
Available features on the 2024 Traverse include Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology, including trailering and automatic lane change capabilities, enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, and Driver Attention Assist.
The new Traverse’s interior has a lower beltline that conveys a more spacious feel. The instrument panel is also lower than on the previous model, which enhances outward visibility. Display screens are the centerpiece of the cabin, starting with the standard 17.7-inch diagonal color touchscreen. It’s more than two times larger than the largest available screen in the 2023 model and is the gateway to the Traverse’s connectivity. Wireless phone charging and a wifi hotspot are also available, and six USB ports are standard. Maximum cargo capacity is 98 cubic feet.
Eight-passenger seating is standard on the LS, with second- and third-row bench seats. Seven-passenger seating is standard on LT, Z71, and RS, with the eight-passenger configuration available on the LT. The seven-passenger configurations include second-row captain’s chairs with SmartSlide, which eases access to the third row, even when a child seat is installed. A one-touch folding second row and a power-folding third-row are standard on the RS.
The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will be available in early 2024, with production based at GM’s Lansing Delta Township facility in Michigan. Additional details, including pricing, will be announced closer to the start of production. The current 2023 Traverse starts at about $36,000, so we’re expecting a base price closer to $39,500 for the new model.
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Z71 is now the new “SS” label for trucks and SUVs.
“Gone is the venerable 3.6-liter, 310-hp V-6, replaced with a 315-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder.” – Engine reliability goes from terrible to on a first-name-basis with the dealer service tech. The extended powertrain warranty will be mandatory.
The 3.6 is one of the most reliable engines that GM has produced. Don’t go off about the first year ones, they fixed the premature timing chain wear a long time ago
I was thinking the same thing. A high stressed 4 popper with a turbo and questionable longevity combined with a likely demographic who ignores scheduled service intervals. Should be a fun vehicle in the used market!
Expecting a 10% increase in base price?! Chevrolet has more confidence in my ability to pay than I do.
Another ugly modern day vehicle.
These comments are all spot on:
-Ugly as sin (looks like it was in an accident before it was even driven). And what’s with that shark fin in the rear quarter window? Was that necessary or did they think it looks cool? It doesn’t.
-A turbo charged Chevy / GM four cylinder? No thanks!
-Disgustingly overpriced, like all cars now.
I’m still trying to figure out why this is better than the 2023 version. Also, why was the 2.7 liter “truck” 4-cylinder engine not used? That seems to be getting all the attention now.