2018 Chevrolet Traverse

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Rating7.7

Ranked #3 in 

Fullsize SUV
Write Review
$29,930 - $52,600
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on June 10, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Huge cargo capacity

Best safety equipment limited to high-end models

Longer wheelbase

Excellent 9-speed automatic transmission

Leather and plastic quality in lower trims

More rear-seat room

Generous room for passengers in all three rows

Better cargo space

Room for up to eight

Updated V6 engine

9-speed automatic transmission

Specs & Features

$29,930

price

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

horsepower

260 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

torque

9-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

3.6L 6cyl FWD 9A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The base trim of the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse costs $29,930, and the feature-packed High Country model with AWD costs $52,050. It has a new and more modern infotainment system, a more polished cabin, and available high-end amenities. The 2018 Traverse is available in seven trims—L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier, and High Country. 

The Traverse is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that delivers excellent power and towing capability. Furthermore, the 9-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifting as well as excellent fuel economy. The RS variant in the lineup comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine for more thrilling driving.

Buying Advice

The LT cloth strikes a good balance between cost and livability, with the convenience and drivers package you will get everything you need. It also comes with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio, heated exterior mirrors, and roof rails. Prices start at $34,550 for the front-wheel-drive version and $38,350 with all-wheel drive.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

"A new powertrain and crisp (but conservative) styling mean the Traverse is once again a contender in the three-row crossover race." - The Car Connection

L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS Premier, and High Country are the seven model options available for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. All trim levels come standard with a V-6 and nine-speed automatic transmission, while the sporty RS trim comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Traverse has a great towing capacity, capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse starts at $29,930 for the base trim and goes up to $52,050 for the feature-packed High Country model with AWD. The five-year costs of gas, insurance, repairs, and maintenance for the 2018 Traverse are expected to be around $26,110, or $5,222 per year. The interior appears to be new and has a lot of features.

Features
8.0/10

L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier, and High Country are the seven trims available for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The V6 engine is standard on all of these trim levels, but the sporty RS trim comes with a torquey turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The majority of trims are available in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.

LED running lights, xenon headlights, heated mirrors, 18-inch wheels, and engine stop-start are among the standard features on the Traverse L. Interior features include cloth upholstery, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, seating for eight, a rearview camera, 4G LTE connectivity and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, Chevy's Teen Driver system, and a 7-inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.

Trims L LS LT CLOTH RS LT LEATHER PREMIER HIGH COUNTRY
MSRP(FWD) $29,930 $33,095 $35,595 $43,095 $42,195 $45,495 N/A
MSRP(AWD) N/A $35,095 $39,395 N/A $44,195 $48,395 $52,050
Features Notable Standard features include: Everything that L has to offer with the addition or substitution of: Includes LS features and adds: Includes LT Leather (3LT) features and adds: Includes LT Cloth and adds: Includes LT Leather (3LT) and adds: Includes Premier and adds:
  Dual-outlet exhaust Deep-tinted glass Outside heated power-adjustable body-color mirrors with turn signal indicators 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine Surround Vision with bird’s-eye view (includes rear vision camera) Dual-outlet exhaust with rectangular tips Trailering equipment: Heavy-duty cooling system and trailer hitch
  Traction Mode Select   18″ Bright Silver-painted machined-face aluminum wheels 20″ Dark Android-painted aluminum wheels Side Blind Zone Alert with Rear Cross Traffic Alert LED D-Optic bi-function projector-beam headlamps IntelliBeam automatic high beam assist
      Foglamps Signature Black accents including Black roof rails, Black bowties, Gloss Black window trim and Black Ice front grille Rear Park Assist with audible warning   Forward Collision Alert and Following Distance Indicator
      Roof rails        

We Recommend 

The LT trim level of the Traverse series offers the most bang for your budget. It has a lot of amenities that aren't available on the lower trims. We recommend getting the All-Wheel-Drive version for superior traction and driving dynamics.


Also Read:

Fuel Economy
6.0/10

The Chevy Traverse's 3.6-liter V-6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission help it achieve an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 21 mpg with front-wheel drive and 20 mpg with all-wheel drive. The city rating with the front-wheel-drive model comes at 18 mpg and the four-wheel-drive model losing a point.

Model 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 2018 Ford Explorer 2018 Honda Pilot 2018 GMC Acadia
Mpg (city) 18 16 18 21
Mpg (highway) 27 22 26 26
Mpg (combined) 21 18 21 23

Highway ratings are impressive, with 27 mpg on front-wheel drive and 25 mpg on all-wheel drive. These ratings show a healthy improvement over the last traverse, which was rated at 15/22/18 mpg. The GMC Acadia is the most economical with a combined 23 mpg. 

Interior
9.0/10

 “The front seats and 2nd-row seats offer up ample headroom and legroom, and the rear bench can accommodate three across without difficulty. The third row is tighter, but still acceptable for kids for long trips, and there’s a ton of cargo space behind the third row even without using the hidden storage area under the floor.” - Kelly Blue Book

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Seating and Comfort 

Inside the Traverse, there's enough room for people in all three rows, getting in and out is a breeze, and the central stack controls are simple to operate. The cabin of the 2018 Traverse is one of the largest in the segment, and you can stretch out regardless of your seat position.

Cloth seats are standard on the base model and leather options become available when you move to higher placed trims. There are USB ports in each row that can be used for charging mobile devices but the 2018 Traverse does not provide any rear-seat entertainment system. 

Model 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 2018 Ford Explorer  2018 Honda Pilot 2018 GMC Acadia
Passenger capacity 8 7 8 7
Passenger Volume(ft cube) 150.8 151.7 151.7 143.8
Front (Head/Hip/Shoulder/Leg)(In.) 41.3/58.1/62.1/41 41.4/57.3/61.5/42.9 39.5/59.1/62/40.9 40.3/55.7/59.4/41
Second (Head/Hip/Shoulder/Leg)(In.) 40/56.9/62.2/38.4 40.6/56.8/61/39.5 39.9/57.3/62/38.4 39.6/53.3/58.7/39.7
Third (Head/Hip/Shoulder/Leg)(In.)

Exterior
7.0/10

"The new Traverse is a sharp looking crossover SUV, looking something like a Chevy Tahoe that cut the carbs and hit the gym. It's actually longer than the Tahoe, with a longer wheelbase as well." - Kelley Blue Book

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Dimensions and Weight 

The exterior design of the 2018 Traverse is primarily influenced by Chevrolet's full-size truck-based SUVs. The upright stance, squared-off front and rear, and towering sides of the Traverse combine with a C-pillar that's slanted aggressively forward to give it a more rugged appearance.

The squared-off back hatch went well with the overall idea of linearity, and the 20-inch wheels added to the look of strength. A secret bin under the rear cargo floor is one of several nooks for storing small goods. There's a motorized liftgate and a hands-free liftgate to choose from.

Model 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 2018 Ford Explorer 2018 Honda Pilot 2018 GMC Acadia
curb weight(lbs) 4713 4901 4288 3956
Length(in) 204.3 198.3 194.5 193.6
Width(in) 78.6 78.9 66.3 75.4
Height(in) 70.7 70 69.8 66
Ground clearance(in) 7.2 8.3 7.3 7.20
Wheelbase(in) 120.9 112.8 111 112.5
Track width(in) F/R 67.3/67.0 67/67 66.3/66.3 64.5/65.5

Some exterior features of the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse are :

  • Roof Rack Cross Rails 
  • Front License Plate Bracket Mounting Package
  • Molded Assist Steps
  • Front And Rear Black Bowtie Emblems 
  • Keyless Entry Keypad
  • Painted Body Color Front And Rear Splash Guards
  • Wheel Locks
  • Polished Alloy Wheels    

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Wheels 

When it comes to wheels, there is something for everyone's taste. The base and LS models come standard with 18-inch wheels, however the LS has the option of upgrading to a 20-inch wheel.

Model 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 2018 Ford Explorer 2018 Honda Pilot 2018 GMC Acadia
Size F/R (in.) 17*7/18*7.5 20*8.5/20*8.5 18*18/18*18 17*7.5/17*7.5
Quality Aluminum Aluminum aluminum Aluminum
Wheel type Alloy Alloy alloy

Alloy

As you progress through the trim levels, you'll have a larger selection of 20-inch wheel options to choose from. The 20-inch polished aluminium wheel is standard on the High Country trim level.

Safety
9.9/10

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2018 Chevy Traverse an overall rating of five out of five stars. It received four stars in the frontal crash and rollover tests and five stars in the side crash test. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not evaluated the 2018 Traverse for safety.

Standard advanced safety features:

  • Rearview camera
  • A rear-seat reminder that prompts you to check the back seats for kids and pets
  • Teen Driver system for monitoring secondary drivers’ habits on the road

Optional advanced safety features:

  • Surround-view parking camera
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Rearview camera mirror
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Automatic high beams
  • Forward collision alert
  • Following distance indicator
  • Front pedestrian braking
  • Lane keep assist
  • Lane departure warning
  • Forward automatic emergency braking
  • Adaptive cruise control

Competition
7.0/10

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Vs 2018 Ford Explorer

Both SUVs have parallels and distinctions, however, Traverse ranks somewhat higher than the Ford Explorer. The Ford has a 3.5-liter V-6 with 290 horsepower as standard, while the Traverse has a 3.6-liter V-6 with 310 horsepower. With a 9-speed transmission, Chevy definitely has more power than the Explorer's 6-speed transmission.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Vs 2018 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot offers one of the most comfortable third-row seats on the market, and the choice between the Pilot and the Traverse may come down to personal preference in terms of appearance and technology. The interior of the Pilot, on the other hand, is more upmarket, and the Traverse infotainment system is user-friendly. The Chevy also comes standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which the Pilot only offers in pricier grades.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Vs 2018 GMC Acadia

GMC automobiles are slightly more expensive in GM's garage than their Chevy counterparts. The Traverse does, however, start $1,000 higher than the Acadia. For the extra money, you receive a larger cargo area and more passenger space. Traverse can also accommodate eight people, although Acadia can only accommodate seven. Both cars have nearly identical feature lists and performance, but the Traverse offers superior value for money.

Final Verdict

When all is said and done, the Traverse is a bit of a mixed bag. It neither does anything revolutionary nor does it include any catastrophic defects. It's a great vehicle for transporting a large number of people while still leaving room for shopping bags. Third-row seats are comfy and capacious, with a variety of tech and functions to pamper occupants. The interiors are pleasant as well, however, when compared to the Honda Pilot, some may prefer the latter.

Trims

    L
    $29,930 onwards
    • 7-Inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system
    • Chevy'S Teen Driver system
    • Cloth upholstery
    • Led running lights
    • Onstar communications
    • Rearview camera
    • Tilt-Adjustable steering wheel
    • Xenon headlights
    LS
    $32,100 onwards
    • Cargo management system
    • Second-Row tablet mounts
    • Usb charging ports
    LT
    $34,600 onwards
    • Front Fog/driving lights
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/Satellite
    1LT
    $35,100 onwards
    • Engine: 3.6L 6cyl AWD 9A
    • Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6800 rpm hp
    • Torque: 266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    3LT
    $41,700 onwards
    • Engine: 3.6L 6cyl AWD 9A
    • Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6800 rpm hp
    • Torque: 266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    RS
    $42,100 onwards
    • 20-Inch wheels
    • Blacked-Out grille
    • Bowtie badge
    2LT
    $42,600 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl FWD 9A
    • Horsepower: 257 hp @ 5500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 295 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 22 mpg
    Premier
    $44,500 onwards
    • Auto-Dimming side mirrors
    • Driver-Seat memory settings
    • Hands-Free operation for the liftgate
    • Heated rear seats
    • Led headlights
    • Power-Adjustable steering column
    • Ventilated front seats
    1LZ
    $45,000 onwards
    • Engine: 3.6L 6cyl AWD 9A
    • Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6800 rpm hp
    • Torque: 266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    High Country
    $52,100 onwards
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Auto-Locking rear differential
    • Automatic high beams
    • Panoramic sunroof
    • Power-Folding third-row seat
    2LZ
    $52,600 onwards
    • Engine: 3.6L 6cyl AWD 9A
    • Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6800 rpm hp
    • Torque: 266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg

Compare to similar cars

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Engine

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Rating

7.43

Horsepower

139 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque

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Capacity

5

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Gasoline

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Gasoline

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Gasoline

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Gasoline

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Gasoline

7.17

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hybrid

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Gasoline

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Gasoline

7.76

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260 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

7

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2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.3 sec14.9 sec130 mph
    5.6 sec14.1 sec115 mph
    6.2 sec14.8 sec-
    6.4 sec--
    6.5 sec15.1 sec131 mph
    6.5 sec14.9 sec116 mph

    2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      18 mpg27 mpg21 mpg19.4 gal.-
      52 mpg49 mpg50 mpg11.9 gal.618.8/583.1 mi.
      34 mpg30 mpg32 mpg14.8 gal.503.2/444 mi.
      29 mpg28 mpg29 mpg17.2 gal.576/537.6 mi.
      26 mpg33 mpg29 mpg14.5 gal.377/478.5 mi.
      26 mpg32 mpg28 mpg14 gal.364/448 mi.

      2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        204.3 in.78.6 in.70.7 in.8 in.120.9 in.
        224.4 in.80.5 in.74.4 in.7.9 in.130 in.

        2018 GMC Yukon XL

        Ranked #1

        224.4 in.80.5 in.74.4 in.7.9 in.130 in.
        210 in.79.9 in.76.6 in.9.8 in.122.5 in.
        208.9 in.79.9 in.75.8 in.9.1 in.121.1 in.
        205.1 in.79.9 in.77 in.9.9 in.122 in.

        2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          23 cu.ft.97.2 cu.ft.98.2 cu.ft.
          10.3 cu.ft.128.2 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.
          16.5 cu.ft.152.9 cu.ft.83.9 cu.ft.
          18.9 cu.ft.-120.1 cu.ft.
          30.9 cu.ft.103.6 cu.ft.59.6 cu.ft.
          24.6 cu.ft.105.4 cu.ft.100.7 cu.ft.Jeep USA

          2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            46.2 cu.ft.23 cu.ft.98.2 cu.ft.-
            96.8 cu.ft.20.6 cu.ft.96.8 cu.ft.-
            64.8 cu.ft.16 cu.ft.79.5 cu.ft.73 ft.
            68.3 cu.ft.39.6 cu.ft.67.6 cu.ft.-
            89.7 cu.ft.26.9 cu.ft.57.3 cu.ft.74 ft.
            89.7 cu.ft.47.2 cu.ft.89.7 cu.ft.-

            2018 Chevrolet Traverse vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1500 lbs.1798 lbs.4362 lbs.
              9300 lbs.1750 lbs.5443 lbs.
              8600 lbs.1720 lbs.5355 lbs.
              8500 lbs.1690 lbs.5379 lbs.
              8500 lbs.1724 lbs.5576 lbs.
              8300 lbs.1690 lbs.5586 lbs.

              2018 Chevrolet Traverse SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              2

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              416

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 6.3 sec

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              2018 Chevrolet Traverse User Reviews

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              POPULAR TAGS

              JD

              Jeffery DeRoo

              2017 Chevrolet Traverse

              1SM 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: June 19, 2024

              Chevy, small suv

              Pros - ["Roomy,great handling", "Roomy and spacey"]

              Cons - ["Not all wheel drive", "No tow hitch"]

              This is a great family vehicle with 3 Rd row seating,great ground clearance, plenty of power,and cargo area, plenty of options,great replacement for mini van owners with out giving up to much room. Buy onr

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review