The Chevrolet Traverse offers more cargo space than any vehicle in its class including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander and Ford Flex. The Traverse manages all this accommodation within a sleek, easy to maneuver front-wheel or all-wheel drive package that’s as easy on your wallet as it is on your eyes.
The Traverse accommodates more filling while requiring less filling-up. A front-wheel drive 2012 Chevrolet Traverse delivers an EPA-estimated 24 mpg highway, better than any other eight-passenger crossover in its class. Split-folding second- and third-row seats offer flexibility, and an available rear-seat DVD entertainment system helps the miles roll away effortlessly for passengers. The Traverse offers up to 116.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space; even with all seats in use, you still have 24.4 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear-most seats.
The year 2012 brings new Dark Silver Metallic and Crystal Red Tintcoat paint colors to the popular Traverse, which is available in LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ trim levels. This year, LTZ trims get heated, power-adjustable, power-folding body-colored outside mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming while 2LT trims feature heated, power-adjustable body-colored mirrors with integrated turn signals and driver’s side auto-dimming. These mirrors will also be on 1LT trims equipped with the Rearview Camera System.
All trims are powered by an advanced 3.6-liter V6 engine that uses direct injection and continuously variable valve timing to maximize efficiency and smooth power delivery. A six-speed automatic transmission improves mileage by keeping the engine in the power band sweet spot when you call upon the 281 hp and 266 lb/ft of torque. An available dual exhaust bumps power to 288 hp and 270 lb/ft of torque.
The well-equipped 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LS
features premium cloth upholstery that covers three rows of standard seating. Standard reclining front bucket seats can be augmented by an available eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and the standard audio system has an auxiliary connection for working with your portable devices, as well as MP3 capability. A dealer-installed “Hit-The-Road” Package adds a sturdy roofrack and chrome steps to ease entry and exit. It’s perfect for taking the bike club out for a ride without needing multiple vehicles. Access to the adult-friendly third-row seat is eased by the standard Smart Slide® second-row seat.
The Traverse 1LT makes the power driver’s seat standard, and increases standard equipment with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, standard Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, ultrasonic rear parking assist and 18-inch machined aluminum wheels. An enhanced Driver Information Center keeps you informed about the powertrain with information like coolant temperature and a voltmeter, and provides an outside temperature display. The Traverse 2LT can be configured for seven or eight passengers by replacing the second-row bench seat with a pair of comfortable buckets. Standard heated front seats and remote start are comfort enhancements that you’ll welcome in the depths of winter. A power liftgate is also standard for Traverse 2LT buyers, along with a rearview camera system, an auto-dimming inside mirror, three-zone climate control and a 10-speaker Bose® audio system with rear-seat controls and USB port.
Navigation with XM NavTraffic™ is available for the 2LT, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system can be added as well. The cabin can be opened up by the selection of the Dual SkyScape® sunroof, which replaces a significant portion of the roof with glass. Leather seating is also available for 2LT models.
Traverse LTZ models feature the highest level of standard equipment with standard leather seating that’s heated and cooled in the front row, 20-inch wheels and dual exhaust. A second-row console is also available, which enhances storage in the LTZ.
All-wheel drive is available across the Chevy Traverse range, and a towing capacity of 5,200 pounds is one of the best for any crossover out there. With an efficient powertrain, the Traverse can stretch its legs for a cruising range in excess of 500 miles. You’ll be cocooned in safety the whole time thanks to standard side-curtain airbags, StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Rollover Mitigation, seatbelt pretensioners and four-wheel antilock disc brakes. An agile, fully-independent suspension with MacPherson struts in front and a compact linked “H” design in the rear gives every Traverse the moves to maneuver around trouble, and the power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering accurately points the Traverse without any slop. The peace of mind provided by standard OnStar is also built into every Traverse, another feather in its already-full cap.
The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is a powerful, comfortable, friendly family cruiser. It has features galore for buyers looking for a vehicle that’s ready and able for anything. The Traverse is a fully modern way to carry eight people and a lot of gear without ever losing a smile.