Is the 2019 Chevy Traverse a good SUV? Reviews give clues
One of GM’s most popular SUVs is the Chevy Traverse. The 2019 Traverse was in its second year of a complete redesign, so those first-year issues with new cars should be behind it. We wondered if this might be a wise choice for those interested in a used SUV? So we’ve looked at reviews from three respected consumer sites, Edmunds, Consumer Reports and Cars.com to get their thoughts on the all-new 2019 Traverse. We’ve included the highlights below.
Cars.com Ratings and Reviews for the 2019 Traverse
Cars.com gave the Traverse 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Good:
- Spacious cabin
- Comfortable third row
- User-friendliness of the multimedia system
- Ultra-smooth ride
The bad:
- Limited third row access
- Automatic emergency braking is reserved for top-of-the-range versions
- No height-adjustable straps
- Inexpensive second-row environment
- Spotlight on standard amenities
What Cars.com had to say about the 2019 Traverse

“The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV that seats up to eight people in three rows. It is equipped as standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine developing 310 horsepower which is associated with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A 257-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder goes in the front-drive RS trim level. All-wheel drive is also offered. Competitors include the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.
“Traverse’s strengths include a spacious cabin well-suited to family transport and a comfortable ride. However, there are quality flaws in the second row, and valuable active safety features are reserved for higher-end trim levels.
Owners’ comments
“This car meets my needs. It’s small enough to maneuver easily but has plenty of room in the cabin… Enough to carry 4 sets of golf clubs and checkers wherever we want to golf!
“Leg room – great! Get up and go now! Love the look of the model. Good gas mileage. Spacious cabin. Nice headroom. Like the height.
Edmunds Crossing Review 2019

Advantages
- The cabin is generous in all three rows
- Plenty of room for any combination of passengers and cargo
- Feature-rich infotainment system comes with a standard Wi-Fi hotspot
The inconvenients
- Some security features are only available on higher versions
- The quality of some interior panels and controls seems cheap for this class
“Chevrolet redesigned its large Traverse crossover SUV last year. With 400 pounds less to move, 3 extra inches of second-row passenger legroom and more third-row legroom than its Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander competitors, the Traverse has cemented its place as one of the roomiest three-row crossovers available. size like a Chevrolet Suburban.
“Of Traverse’s seven trim levels, the LT Cloth trim paired with the Driver Convenience and Confidence Package (standard on AWD) gives you everything you need. Combining the basic enhancements of the LT trim with useful optional safety features, the LT cloth strikes a good balance between cost and roominess.
What Owners Said About the 2019 Traverse
“Transmission failure left me on the side of the road at 600 miles. Dealer attempted to fix but vehicle had groaned transmission and smelled of burnt parts after driving. Back to dealership now for another repair. At this point I will have been in a loaner vehicle as long as I was in my Traverse. Isolated case? Maybe, but at this point I would have a better review of my Malibu from ready.
“After testing it overnight, we fell in love with the power; the fuel efficiency and interior comfort it provides. The overall look and feel is amazing. You know the saying, ‘Happy wife, happy life”. My wife was in awe of the comfort and the room. I was impressed with the infotainment system and all the USB ports. NO need for the kids to fight to charge! 100% satisfied.”
“Quick and smooth. 2019 Chevy Traverse AWD redline edition absolutely gorgeous and badass looking car. 6 miles on it, knocking it out of the field and the transmission shuts off. pick up 10 days later supposed to be fixed with updated software or something that gets it back to 50 miles of transmission light. The dealer will buy me a new one! I’m not sure I want one!”
Consumer Reports Ratings and Reviews
“After about a decade, Chevrolet has finally replaced the first-generation Traverse three-row crossover with a new model that offers space, comfort, refinement and connectivity. Not only does it compete with popular three-row SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, but it beats them at their own game. And it also serves as a viable alternative to the full-size Chevy Suburban.
“On the road, the Traverse proves to be a smooth and easy-going coach. Power from the 3.6-liter V6 engine is smooth, with quick throttle response. Aided by an understated nine-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain is relaxed and has plenty of power in reserve. It posted a quick 7.3-second 0-60 mph sprint. At 20 mpg, fuel economy is par for the course.
Treble
Rides comfortably
Has a quiet interior
Low
Advanced security features only available on higher versions
Driver’s seat only has two-way lumbar support adjustment
Drive through owner-reported hotspots
Only 66% of owners would buy another Traverse based on consumer reports surveys.
Paint and finish issues.
Leaky transmission gear selector.
Squealing and some road noise.
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