2009 Chevrolet Traverse: The fourth in the series…
Unwisely, GM has all too often gotten caught up in the game of offering three or four similar models sold under different banners. Case in point, the recent Uplander/Montana SV6/Relay/Teraza foursome of minivans, turned out to be a miserable failure. Despite repeating this mistake over and over again, this year the manufacturer is coming out with a fourth interpretation of its full-size crossover vehicle. Indeed, after the Enclave/Acadia/Outlook trio, now it’s Chevrolet’s turn to join the party with the Traverse.
The Traverse has undoubtedly inherited a good foundation from its three non-identical twin brothers that came out last year and rightfully received their fair share of praise. However, the current economic situation that has dragged GM to the depths of despair is also a terrible time for the Traverse to arrive on the market. GM is even considering abandoning several brands, and by extension, several models.
The former number one in the world must streamline, reduce the number of products offered and bring the company back to the size that it truly represents on the North American market. Thus, it is hard to justify the introduction of a new model that isn’t replacing another one. Obviously, Chevrolet isn’t leaving the scene, so the arrival of the Traverse is in some ways a positive thing, since its survival is all but certain. However, it could mean that at some point, production of one or two of its twins might cease after their division disappears. Considering the more sluggish sales of the Saturn Outlook, it seems to be the logical model on the chopping block.
The same, but different!
With its size and shape, it’s easy to see the family resemblance between the Traverse and its brothers, but its distinctive style sets it apart. At first glance, that trademark Chevrolet grille stands out and proudly declares the vehicle’s origins. Next, the rear side windows that hook upward add to its unique personality. Finally, the tail end features a V-shaped window and tail lamps that are more elaborately designed than those of the Acadia and Outlook.
On board, the sea blue ambient lighting fills the passenger compartment, unlike the GMC and Saturn, which feature red and orange lighting respectively. The very elegant dashboard features an attractive middle section that plunges towards the central console and incorporates as always the controls for the ventilation and audio system in addition to numerous other buttons. However, the central console with its sliding armrest and its two cup holders is borrowed from its twins. Personally, I am quite fond of the comfortable seats and the driving position, which is improved by the telescopic steering wheel. However, the finish is inferior to that of the GMC Acadia, notably in terms of the fit of the various panels on the doors and dashboard. It’s not the end of the world, but I must admit that the Ford Flex is a lot better in this regard.
The Traverse is an imposing vehicle with a well-defined shape, which helps it offer more space than the average for all passengers. Even in the third row, access is easy and the space is respectable. Of course, the seats can be folded down in several ways to benefit from a large cargo area. Behind the front seats, the Traverse can boast the most cargo space in its category.
Several excellent gadgets
The version that we tested, while far from the most luxurious, was characterized by a small rear-view camera built straight into the rear-view mirror and an ultrasonic rear obstacle detection system. Together, these two devices help the driver keep an eye on everything without having to spend the fortune is normally required to opt for a navigation screen. And still with a view to maximizing visibility and avoiding obstacles, Chevrolet has also equipped the Traverse with wide angle rear-view mirrors. It’s a very simple but excellent idea.
The 3.6-litre V6 engine offered last year on its brothers is being changed somewhat this year. It helps obtain better performances and better fuel efficiency thanks mainly to the new direct fuel injection system, which also give this V6 the nervousness that it should have had from the get-go in 2007. It’s smoother, livelier and should be better when overtaking other vehicles. With 281 hp (288 on the LTZ version thanks to its dual exhaust system), it’s very efficiently paired with a six-speed transmission.
On average, fuel consumption varies from 12.5 to 13.5 litres per 100 kilometres depending on the season and whether you select the front-wheel drive or the four-wheel drive model. In all-wheel drive model, there is a reactive system that is much more efficient than the one currently used in the Chevrolet Equinox.
Imposing, but easy to handle
Despite its imposing size, the Traverse couldn’t be easier to handle. We can thank the steering that transmits excellent feedback to the driver for that. We also liked the small turning circle. On the road, the lack of rattles and squeaks really underscores the Traverse’s toughness and construction quality. The soundproofing is outstanding, the comfort is exceptional and visibility is good at any angle. The Traverse also demonstrates good balance on the road and exceptional handling. It goes easily into turns and there is very little roll. When it’s time for evasive action, the Traverse manoeuvres more safely than the Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Veracruz. Yet again, all credit goes to the ultra-fast steering.
Nonetheless, our test version, which didn’t have all-wheel drive, was disappointing for winter driving. In the snow, the vehicle is more prone to skidding than average, which of course leads not only to premature wear and tear on the tires, but also to the traction control being engaged quite often. And since it’s sensitive and somewhat unforgiving, I often had to deactivate it to be able to start at a corner so as not to delay the cars behind me. Moreover, the front-wheel drive version features a small torque steer effect that isn’t too noticeable, but in certain winter situations, it can turn into a problem. Basically, bring on the all-wheel drive for the winter.
One thing is sure, the Traverse will help Chevrolet dealerships bring back a clientele that was lost ages ago after the decline of the intermediate SUV market. I wouldn’t bet the farm on it, but odds are that it will become more popular than its counterparts at GM’s other divisions.
