2024 Chevrolet Traverse Loses V6, Gains Rugged Z71 Model
The Chevrolet Traverse is getting a complete redesign for 2024, six years after the current generation was introduced. It will be available early next year.
“Our new Traverse is designed and engineered to act and look more like an SUV,” said Scott Bell, vice president at 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.”
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The lineup consists of four distinct trims starting with the returning LS, LT and sporty, darker-looking RS (now with 22-inch wheels). The new Z71 replaces the High Country as a more rugged and more capable alternative.
On the outside, the 2024 Traverse features more muscular styling complete with redesigned headlights and taillights, an available new panoramic dual-glass sunroof and AutoSense rear liftgate, as well as three new body colours including Lakeshore Blue, Harvest Bronze and Stardust.
New 4-Cylinder Engine
Gone is the naturally aspirated 3.6-litre V6. All models are powered by an all-new turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine—derived from the Silverado 1500’s 2.7-litre unit—that delivers a GM-estimated 315 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque, an increase of 5 horsepower and 51 lb-ft.
It is paired with an eight-speed (previously nine-speed) automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard (off-road-capable twin-clutch AWD system on Z71). When properly equipped on LT and above, the new Traverse has a max trailering rating of up to 5,000 lbs. Fuel consumption figures remain to be announced.
Traverse Z71
Let’s talk about the new Traverse Z71. Beyond the twin-clutch AWD system, this adventurous model boasts a roster of off-road-capable features that include as standard:
- More than one-inch increased ground clearance coupled with increased track width;
- All-terrain tires with 18-inch wheels designed exclusively for Z71;
- Unique front fascia purposely designed for improved approach angle, with an aluminum skid plate and signature Z71 red tow hooks;
- Unique dampers with hydraulic rebound control;
- Specific Terrain Mode within the driver-selectable drive mode;
- Hill Descent Control;
- Standard trailering package.
More Safety and Tech
Chevrolet has obviously packed more safety and driver assistance features into the 2024 Traverse. Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology is available, including trailering and automatic lane change capabilities, Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist and Driver Attention Assist.
First-row occupants will find a much more modern environment similar to other recently introduced Chevrolet models. Display screens are the centerpiece of the cabin, starting with the standard 17.7-inch infotainment screen, which is more than two times larger than the largest available screen in the previous model. There’s also a new 11-inch configurable driver information centre.
A column-mounted electronic transmission shifter opens up more storage and useable space between the driver and front passenger. What’s more, a pass-through console design enables even more storage capability. Heated front and second-row outboard seats are standard in Canada (sorry, U.S.).
Speaking of which, the new Traverse offers a number of flexible second- and third-row configurations:
- Eight-passenger seating standard on 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 LT;
- 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;
- One-touch folding second row and power-folding third-row standard on RS.
The company also brags about offering best-in-class max cargo capacity of up to 2,763 litres.
More information about the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, including pricing details, will be announced closer to the start of production. Expect significant increases from the 2023 model, which carried a base MSRP just under $40,000.