The all-new 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV with seating for up to eight passengers, an easy drive, a big-enough-for-adults split-folding third-row seat, and an above-average tow capacity.
The new Traverse is available in three trims: LS, LT and LTZ.
Even the entry level LS model has plenty of standard features, including 17 inch steel wheels, full power accessories, air conditioning, split-folding second and third-row bench seats, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, OnStar, and a six-speaker CD/MP3 audio system with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the LT model includes the choice of two feature packages: LT1 or LT2. The LT1 package comes with 18 inch alloy wheels, remote vehicle start, rear parking sensors, an eight-way power driver seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The more upscale LT2 package gets all of the above, plus a power liftgate, rearview camera, second-row captain's chairs (7-passenger seating), tri-zone automatic climate control, a ten-speaker Bose sound system, and rear audio system controls.
The Traverse LTZ trim goes on to add 20 inch wheels, heated and cooled power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, and a navigation system with real-time traffic.
Most of these features can be added to the other trims through other optional packages. Additionally, dual sunroofs and a rear-seat entertainment system are also available options.
There's also a trailer package available for those who are serious about the Traverse's 5,200-pound towing capacity. It can be added on all trim levels and includes a heavy-duty engine cooler and trailer hitch.
All Chevy Traverse models are powered by a 3.6 liter V6 engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. In the single-outlet exhaust LS and LT models, the V6 delivers 281 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque.
In the LTZ, which uses direct fuel injection and dual-outlet exhaust, horsepower is boosted to 288 and torque jumps to 270 lb-ft. This combination of features increases efficiency and reduces emissions at the same time.
EPA gas mileage ratings for the front-wheel-drive Traverse are 17 mpg ciity and 24 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive Traverse models are only slightly reduced at 16 mpg city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Standard safety features on all Traverse models include antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for all three rows, and one year of GM's OnStar service, including turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity.
In government crash tests, the Traverse received a five star rating (the highest) for both frontal and side-impact collisions.
Update: Bad Economy Leads To Lower Traverse Prices:
Chevy's sales have been on the weak side historically for close to the past two years now, right along with the other car brands and evidence of a continuing slow economy.
They've recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with intense dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down some great deals.
Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.
How To Buy A New Traverse At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Chevy Traverse, here's the best way to get the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.
Prices:
2009 Chevrolet Traverse:
LS FWD: retail price: $29,215, invoice price: $27,608
LS AWD: retail price: $31,215, invoice price: $29,498
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