2010 Chevrolet Traverse Review

Volatile gas prices and altered priorities have forced many consumers to reconsider the need (or lack thereof) for a large, gas-thirsty, truck-based SUV. Without the need for massive towing capacity or off-road capability, these folks could be well served by the oh-so-practical and user-friendly minivan. Of course, many of them can't get around the minivan's less-than-flattering image.

Filling the breach is the large crossover SUV, a vehicle that combines nearly the same amount of family-focused functionality and car-based dynamics of a minivan with the ruggedly sporty appearance and personality of an SUV. And in this segment, the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is one of the better vehicles for providing plenty of space, comfort and performance for an attractive price.

One of four GM quadruplets built on the same "Lambda" platform (that also includes the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook), the Traverse was introduced just last year. It's probably overkill to have four versions of essentially the same vehicle, and the Traverse differs little other than in styling and minor equipment and interior trim variations. But like its siblings, the Traverse boasts greater amounts of passenger and cargo space than a traditional large SUV while also delivering a more pleasant, carlike driving experience and superior fuel economy.

Though it's the entry-level Lambda, the Traverse doesn't necessarily look it. It shares some handsome styling cues with the well-received Malibu -- such as the split mesh grille outside and the dual-cockpit dash theme inside -- and generally makes a convincing argument for itself. True, it does have some faults, including relatively poor outward visibility and a third-row seat that's not as comfortable as that of the Ford Flex. Nor is it as nimble around town as the Mazda CX-9. But if you're looking for a well-performing people mover that hauls a lot of cargo and doesn't scream "mommy (or daddy) mobile," the Traverse deserves your serious attention.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard equipment on the LS includes 17-inch steel wheels, eight-passenger seating, split-folding second- and third-row bench seats, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, full power accessories, OnStar and a six-speaker CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

The midrange LT trim level is actually comprised of a choice of two sub-trims: the well-equipped 1LT and the more upscale 2LT. The 1LT package offers 18-inch alloy wheels, heated sideview mirrors, an eight-way power driver seat, a trip computer, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear parking sensors. Select the 2LT package and get all that plus tri-zone automatic climate control, a 10-speaker Bose system (with USB port), rear audio system controls, seven-passenger seating (featuring second-row captain's chairs), a power liftgate and a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror.

The Traverse LTZ ups the luxury ante with 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated power front seats (with driver memory settings), Bluetooth connectivity and remote ignition. Many of the standard features on upper trim levels can be added to the lower ones via optional packages. Other option highlights include a trailering package, a navigation system (with real-time traffic, a rearview camera and a USB port), dual sunroofs and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system (with USB port).