2013 Chevrolet Traverse
The car for families that traverse. Obviously
By Shahzad Sheikh
The Traverse is basically Chevrolet’s version of the GMC Acadia (read the review here). But whilst the Acadia had smartened up in accordance with its brand heritage, Chevy’s crossover had rather plainer looks. That’s now been addressed with smarter more upmarket looks bringing it in line with the fantastic Impala – although not quite as sleek of course.
But whilst the exterior and interior has been spruced up, the fundamental goodness of the people carrier remain intact. It’s a full eight-seater with decent cargo space, and is available in front and all-wheel drive configurations.
It’s still powered by a familiar 3.6-litre V6 producing 288bhp, whilst keeping economy at a very reasonable 12.4L/100km – hey these things count when you’ve got kids to feed!
What is new is the adoption of the manufacturer-standard MyLink infotainment system, through a centre 6.5-inch colour touch screen, which works incredibly well and is exceedingly versatile. You can also specify a rear entertainment system – essential to keep the troops quiet.
Even more assuring for those looking for a people carrier to put their kids in is the fact that this thing is loaded to the rafters with safety features. In addition to blind spot sensors, there’s rear cross-traffic alert (standard on LTZ and which uses the radar to warning you of anything crossing behind you), plus of course the standard rear camera.
It also has standard tyre pressure monitoring, child seat anchors and airbags just about everywhere including curtain airbags, roof airbags and even a front/centre airbag that deploys from the side of the driver’s seat to stop the front passenger hitting each other during a side impact.
And the thoughtful touches continue with a child-friendly second-row sliding feature – that recognises that the rearmost third row is normally occupied by children, who often struggle to move the heavy seats forward to gain access.
All of this can be yours starting from AED116,000 for the front-wheel drive LS to AED163,000 for this desirable range-topping all-wheel drive LTZ.
Performance, ride and handling are all on par for what you’d expect, but the main appeal of this car is in its practicality. It represents a slightly more accessible version of the GMC Acadia – although personally I favour the looks and style of the latter.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse
Specs
Price: AED116-163 (US$31.5k-44.4k)
Engine: 3.6-litre V6, 288bhp, 370lb ft
Performance: 12.4L/100km
Transmission: Six-speed auto, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Weight: 2136kg
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