The first thing you'll notice about the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse: it's huge. The Traverse has always been on the larger size of the midsize crossover segment, but in its new generation, it grows even more, surpassing big-brother Tahoe in a number of dimensions. The Traverse also comes to market with a wider trim range than before, with a choice of two powertrains.
Chevy's new Traverse is 204.3 inches long, riding on a 120.9-inch wheelbase. Compare that to a Tahoe, and the Traverse is 0.4 inches longer overall, with a 4.9-inch longer wheelbase. With both rows of seats folded, a Traverse can carry 98.5 cubic feet of cargo space. A Tahoe, on the other hand, carries 94.7. When asked about this size difference, Chevy officials basically told us that the main reason to buy a Tahoe now, is if you need the 8,600-pound towing capacity. This also means there's a serious difference between the Traverse and its platform mate, the GMC Acadia – the Chevy is nearly nine inches longer.
Never mind, the 2018 Traverse offers even more to like, with new Premier, High Country, and RS trim levels – more on that last one in a minute. The standard powertrain is a naturally aspirated, 3.6-liter V6, producing 305 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive models are estimated to get 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg highway. All-wheel drive will be available on all trims except for the RS. The 2018 Traverse will go on sale this fall, following its debut at this week's Detroit Auto Show, and we'll have even more details – including pricing – closer to that time.
