The Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD

The Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD is the best in the Chevrolet portfolio for those who need a mid-size three-row vehicle. It’s one of a growing list of road-trippers Napleton News has experienced and tested. Would we recommend it? Read on further to find out.

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The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD gets its power from a new, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the previous generation used a 310 horsepower, 266 lb-ft V6 engine. Stronger and more fuel-efficient than before, it is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The towing capacity is a typical 5,000 pounds, which is relatively standard in this segment.

Since our test model was the Traverse RS AWD, it includes an uprated suspension with special ride and handling features.

All new for 2024.

The new Chevy Traverse is all-new for 2024. Now into its third generation, it offers plenty of room inside to stretch out and relax in the rest of the cabin. The exterior has been re-appointed with sharp creases that keep the family similarity intact, but keep it distinct in its own way.

The Traverse utilizes the same platform as the previous model, giving it strong bones from the start. The rear is more boxy than before but with a lack of tapering, there is more space inside.

A fresh look inside the Traverse.

The new Traverse RS has undergone an extensive redo inside that now features an 11-inch driver information display screen and a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen. There’s Wi-Fi too, along with standard wireless charging. As a bonus to parents with kids in seats, the middle row seats can slide forward allow access to those unfortunates who draw the short straws and are forced to head to the back of the bus.

We have been watching GM and by extension, Chevrolet’s plastics for years and believe us when we tell you they have really upped their game. No longer does the plastic appear like a cheap, easy to scratch and scarred piece of dead dinosaur.

Space wise, the Chevrolet Traverse is the cargo champ, with a best-in-class 98 cubic feet of cargo storage space.

The Technology inside.

Technology is also a shining mark for the Traverse. While not new, the Traverse has small motors in the driver’s seat cushion to alert the direction of a situation. The right cheek will vibrate if a hazard appears from that side, while the left cheek may do the same if one appears from the other. Head-on engages both sides letting you know the hazard is directly in front. If nothing else, you’ll get a nice, yet subtle massage.

Luckily, there was still a connection to Apple CarPlay here. We’re not in love with the Google version of the same, and don’t like the other system being forced on us. Think of it like this: You love chocolate milkshakes. You’re used to having a chocolate milkshake every day. But suddenly your supply of chocolate milkshakes ends. You’ll be pretty angry not being able to get a chocolate milkshake again. Apple CarPlay is the same way. Perhaps there is money in Data, and the General is making it available to those with the deepest pockets?

Finally, our tester included a Bose 10-speaker premium audio system, along with active noise cancellation circuitry. Think of the system as a giant Bose Noise Canceling headphone for the cabin of the Traverse.

Behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD.

There’s so much good going on with the new Traverse, that It’s a shame to hit it with some bad. But we wouldn’t be doing our jobs if we said this was the best you could ever get. (Unless it was.)

But let’s get on with it. This new Traverse holds its own in most ways, from the good construction, a well-sorted platform and comfortable surroundings. Acceleration is quite good, and the engine seems up to the task of providing the right amount of power when and where it’s needed. Braking is good all the way around and fuel economy seems more than satisfactory, especially when squeezing the skinny pedal to merge with already fast moving traffic.

All of that is good.

It’s when that same engine is called upon to do its bidding that there’s a big fall down. The downside is the engine itself. Step on it hard and you will get a racket that could wake the dead. It just sounds cheap, especially when compared to the rest of the vehicles in the segment.

For that, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD goes down as a swing and a miss.

Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD Specifications