2020 Chevy Traverse Review

Name: 2020 Chevrolet Traverse Review
Brand: Chevrolet
Price: 17686 USD

Chevrolet Traverse High Country 4dr SUV Exterior

2019 Chevrolet Traverse LT Cloth 4dr SUV Exterior

Chevrolet Traverse Premier 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

+235

The Traverse is one of the largest three-row crossovers in the midsize class and provides plenty of passenger and cargo space. A quiet cabin, soft ride and impressive infotainment tech add to its appeal. On the downside, budget-grade interior materials and a lack of standard safety features can make it hard to justify paying Chevy's price. Overall, the Traverse is worth a look if maximum space is a priority, but there are better choices overall.

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2020 Chevrolet Traverse Review

byDan Frio^{Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.}

Pros

Passenger room is generous in all three rows
Loads of space for any combination of passengers and cargo
Feature-rich infotainment system comes with standard Wi-Fi hotspot

Cons

Some safety features are only available on top trims
Quality of some interior panels and controls seems low-rent for this class

What's new

V6 engine now standard across the lineup
Upgraded navigation and infotainment systems
More features added to option packages
Part of the second Traverse generation introduced for 2018

Overview

Two years after an extensive redesign, the Chevrolet Traverse returns with several minor updates for 2020. Some new features have been added to option packages (an automatic heated steering wheel now joins the Driver Confidence II package, for example). And the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system makes its debut, offering sharper graphics and a more streamlined smartphone-style touchscreen interface.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse L 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$198/mo

$254/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

A more significant change is that the RS trim's turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets the ax; a V6 engine is standard across the board for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse. Given the turbo four-cylinder's struggle to move the Traverse's mass with any authority, it's not likely to be missed.

Elsewhere, the Traverse's formula remains the same. It's the roomiest three-row SUV you can buy that isn't a full-size, truck-based behemoth like the Chevy Suburban. But that space comes at a premium. Honda and Toyota competitors, for example, can cost a few thousand dollars less and offer nicer interiors than the Traverse's somewhat budget-feel cabin materials. But when it comes to a pleasant highway ride and room to spread out and carry your stuff, the Traverse is hard to beat. Notably, the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse is a featured vehicle in our Cheapest New Cars article.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Average

7.4

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

7.0/10

How does the Traverse drive? The Traverse's V6 engine provides strong acceleration when you really ask for it, but in general it tends to select a higher gear for fuel economy, which sometimes makes it feel less punchy. It took 7.1 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph in our testing, which is relatively quick for the three-row SUV class. The transmission's quick shifts are well-suited to low-speed city driving, and the brakes have good stopping power despite a lack of pedal feel.

Handling isn't the Traverse's strong suit, and there's moderate body roll in turns due to its size and soft suspension. Class rivals such as the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9 feel more composed. But the steering feels good, with plenty of assist at low, parking-lot speeds and hefty weight at highway speeds.

Comfort

8.0/10

How comfortable is the Traverse? If you're looking for comfortable and quiet family transport above all else, the Traverse should be on your short list. The seats are supportive enough for long rides, and there's enough legroom in all three rows for adults of average size. The ride is top-notch, with tall-sidewall tires and a soft suspension soaking up bumps and impacts. At highway speeds, the cabin stays relatively hushed, with just the slightest hint of wind noise over the side mirrors.

The Traverse's air conditioning cools the big cabin quickly, but the controls are a jumbled mess and some functions are buried in touchscreen menus. The heated seats and steering wheel could use more intensity.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? Despite its height, the Traverse is easy to get into and out of. There's not a significant step-up height, and the wide door openings make it easy for average-size adults to slide in and out. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and multiple seat adjustments offer a commanding driving position, but some of our staff found the awkward placement of the driver's footrest uncomfortable.

There's a lot of room ― for head, legs, elbows and shoulders ― in all three rows. This is one of the biggest cabins among three-row SUVs. But it's also one of the hardest to see around. The seats and giant pillars block the view to the rear sides, so it's helpful to have the Traverse's blind-spot monitoring, rearview camera and rear parking sensors.

Technology

8.0/10

How’s the tech? A rare standard Wi-Fi connection, a high-quality upgraded sound system and easy-to-use voice controls give the Traverse an edge among other three-row SUVs. The navigation display is clear and detailed, if somewhat small compared to the size of the screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Up to seven devices can connect to the onboard Wi-Fi, which should keep passengers happy on long drives.

Optional safety equipment delivers an acceptable experience, but you need to spring for the mid- to high-level trims for access. Given the Traverse's compromised rearward visibility, some of these systems (blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors) should be standard.

Storage

8.5/10

How’s the storage? The Traverse offers abundant space for adults, child seats, water bottles and whatever else you can think of. There's 23 cubic feet of luggage space behind the upright third row. That's class-leading. Fold both the second- and third-row seats and you have a massive 98.2 cubes, more than the Honda Pilot or Ford Explorer. This goes for small-item storage as well, with big door pockets, a big center console and good-sized cupholders offering plenty of nooks for your items. Child safety seats are also afforded plenty of room and easy to install with easily accessible LATCH points in the second-row captain's chairs and the third row.

Our test car was only capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds, but an optional trailering package bumps that capacity up to a more respectable 5,000 pounds. That's right in line with most three-row rivals.

Fuel Economy

6.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates that a front-wheel-drive Traverse will return 21 mpg combined (18 city/27 highway). That's right about in the middle of the averages for three-row crossovers. On our highway-heavy 115-mile evaluation loop, the Traverse returned 21.8 mpg, slightly below expectations.

Value

6.5/10

Is the Traverse a good value? The Traverse's scheduled maintenance and warranties are about average for the class. Complimentary roadside assistance stretches for five years/60,000 miles, which is better than what some rivals offer. That's impressive support, but the Chevy's build quality feels only average, and even a little low-rent, for its price.

Wildcard

5.5/10

The Traverse isn't the go-to three-row SUV if you're looking for a fun, lively driving experience. For that, you might look to the Mazda CX-9 or Ford Explorer. What the Chevy does excel at, however, is spacious six-adult-passenger transportation with a soft, comfortable and confident ride. You get the Traverse for carpooling, not canyon carving.

And while the Traverse does have some style, it's fairly bland compared to its rivals, which tend to have a more commanding road presence. There are a few available trim packages that give the Traverse a bit of a brutish look, but it's not the sleek or attractive choice in the segment.

Which Traverse does Edmunds recommend?

The Traverse's seven trim levels are a bit much, but the LT Cloth trim paired with the Convenience and Driver Confidence package (standard on the all-wheel-drive version) offers all you need. It combines the LT trim's basic upgrades with useful optional safety features, striking a good balance between cost and livability.

2020 Chevrolet Traverse models

The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse is available in seven trim levels: L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier, and High Country.

All trims start with a 3.6-liter V6 (310 horsepower, 266 lb-ft of torque) paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Most trims come with standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.

The Traverse L base model comes respectably equipped with features such as 18-inch wheels, cloth upholstery, a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, onboard Wi-Fi, and a 7-inch touchscreen display interface.

You're not likely to find many L trims on dealer lots, though, so the LS trim will be most people's starting point. It comes with the same equipment as the L but offers optional all-wheel drive and a few optional extras (second-row tablet mounts with dedicated USB charging, for example).

Moving up to the LT Cloth replaces the second-row bench seat with captain's chairs. That reduces seating capacity to seven, although the bench can be added back as an option. The LT Cloth also provides two option packages. One adds basic driver safety aids and an upgraded infotainment system; the other adds a trailer hitch and upgraded cooling system.

As its name suggests, the LT Leather comes standard with leather upholstery. An optional Premium package with navigation, upgraded audio system and top-down parking camera system is also available. The RS is equipped much like the LT Leather and comes standard with Premium package features. But it also features unique styling cues and accents such as 20-inch wheels and a blacked-out grille and bowtie badge.

The Premier sits near the top of the range with a hands-free liftgate, ventilated front seats, wireless device charging, and an optional sunroof. The range-topping High Country comes with all the Premier's goodies plus an advanced all-wheel-drive system, panoramic sunroof and adaptive cruise control, among other features.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above Average

#22 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Chevrolet Traverse from 2008-2022.}

$574/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1.02x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

16.5%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Chevrolet Traverse.

5 (62%)

4 (12%)

3 (12%)

2 (14%)

1 (0%)

4.3

32 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

From a Lincoln to a Chevy

Raymond Stewart, 11/16/2019

2020 Chevrolet Traverse LT Cloth 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A)

If you have heard the rumor that Lincolns are a very smooth ride, with decent mileage and pretty good on service, you heard right. What you also need to know is that the Chevy Traverse is, in my opinion & experience, as comparable in the ride & the service, with one distinction, much affordable than the Lincoln!

Great crossover SUV without going to a barge.

DEF, 01/08/2021

2020 Chevrolet Traverse LT Leather 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)

I read some of the "negative" reviews, and feel some buyers did not do their research or a proper test drive. This is a comfortable large suv with good sightlines and great road holding. Steering weight and vehicle tracking is darn near perfect. Not too light, not too heavy. And the Traverse holds a straight line without constant little adjustments, something I found very annoying in a …

LOVE MY CAR!!!!!

Ggutierrez43, 12/26/2019

2020 Chevrolet Traverse LT Cloth 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A)

This car has been amazing to my family! Love the captain seats and all of the spacious room it has! This car has a smooth ride, heated seats, heated steering wheel, heated side ,mirrors, auto start, auto locks and windows, cameras, lots of safety features, and lots of room for the whole family! Were in love with the new 2020 Traverse!

MEETS AND EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS - UPDATE #2

David S , 01/20/2021

2020 Chevrolet Traverse RS 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)

After 6 months and 7,000 km, I am really happy with my 2020 RS. PRO's: Amazing amount of space - I keep the 3rd row of seats down most of the time, and the amount of trunk space this provides is incredible. More than any other vehicle I have owned. Decent economy - I've averaged 8.9 ltrs/100 km so far. That compares very favourably to the 11.7 I used to get with the 2014 Jeep Wrangler … 4-door that the Chev replaced. Comfort ride - Actually, a very comfortable ride; better than my neighbour's Toyota Highlander and another's Ford Explorer. Really awesome on the highway. Also, good fit and finish. Plenty of helpful technology. Easy to get in and out of. CONS: The worst is Auto Stop. It's so frustrating in city traffic, but not a problem in the rural area I live in. The heated steering wheel gets too hot. (I'm going to get the dealership to check this at the next service.) That's it! So far, the Chev is a winner. Oh...and it handles the snowy conditions of a Canadian winter much better than expected. I have winter tires on, of course, but the roads in the area I live in are the last to get ploughed, but just switching the drive setting to 4x4 and even 6" of snow doesn't bother the Chev. I guess I'll update this in a few months. UPDATE: After 11 months and 13,500 km, I can still report that the Traverse both meets and exceeds my original expectations. Gas consumption has averaged 9.4 litres/100 km, including several long trips with a 2,000lb trailer in tow. I have become quite used to the Auto-Stop feature and it no longer bothers me at all. That said, I still don't like it! There really needs to be an override button. I bought a Curt Echo Bluetooth electric brake controller and despite my misgivings, it works perfectly. I borrowed a neighbour's 4,000 cargo trailer (equipped with electric brakes) and towed it for several hundred kms. The controller worked really well and using the cellphone app to adjust it is very easy. I would give the Traverse 5 stars if it wasn't for the high purchase price and the lack of an override for the Auto-Stop. It's comfortable, very spacious and - so far - very reliable. I totally recommend this vehicle. UPDATE December1, 2022: It's now 26 months since I purchased the Traverse, and with 38,700 kms on the clock, it continues to be an awesome vehicle. Average gas consumption has improved to 8.6 litres/100 kms. I did have to make one tiny warranty claim... The chrome strip on the trunk, between the tail lights, started to lose its coating and was replaced by the dealership. The all-wheel system works really well in the snowy Canadian winter, especially with decent snow tires fitted. Bottom line... I'm still happy and looking forward to several years of ownership. UPDATE June 5, 2023 2 1/2 years and 47,000 KMS and the Traverse is purring along nicely. Overall fuel economy has improved to 7.9 litres/100 km. Summer rims & tires are back on and tire noise is a distant hum again. Hopefully, I'll be back with another update later in the year. UPDATE December 6, 2023 After 3 yrs and 3 mos of ownership and 53,000+ kms, our Traverse is still running perfectly. Absolutely no complaints. The winter tires are back on, and while they're a little noisier than the summer tires, the ride is smoother with the smaller rims and higher-profile tires. Overall gas consumption is an amazing 7.6 lts/100 km (31 mpg), including a fair amount of towing a 3,500 lbs utility trailer. I'll be back with another update next summer.

See all 32 reviews of the Chevrolet Traverse

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2020 Traverse Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$29,800
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	21 MPG
Cost to Drive	$198/month
Seating	8 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	23.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Traverse models:

Teen Driver Mode: Limits some systems, prevents safety features from being deactivated and reports driving behavior.
Side Blind Zone Alert: Warns the driver when a lane change may result in a collision with another vehicle.
Front Automatic Braking: Automatically applies the brakes to help you avoid potential collisions with vehicles in front of you.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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