2016 Chevy Traverse Review
2016 Chevy Traverse Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Smooth ride even when the road isn't
- can accommodate up to eight passengers
- plenty of cargo space behind the third row
- peace of mind that comes with top safety scores.
Cons
- As cumbersome to drive as its size suggests
- infotainment and climate controls are behind the times in terms of design and functionality.
What’s new
For the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, the OnStar system gets faster connectivity (4G LTE) with in-car WiFi hot spot capability. There is also a new entry-level model, the Base LS.
Edmunds says
Do you need a big SUV that can shuttle lots of people and cargo? The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is made for you. Besides its utilitarian abilities, it's also pleasant to drive and will make the most of your money with its abundant features. Keep reading to find out why it's one of our top picks in the segment.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse LS Base 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 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 $3.56 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$245/mo for Traverse LS Base
Traverse LS Base
vs
$208/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
A decade ago, if you wanted a vehicle with eight seats and a giant cargo bay, your choices were either a minivan or an SUV big enough to require its own ZIP code. Today, though, there are several large crossover SUVs that give you generous interior space in a reasonably sized package, and the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse remains one of our favorites.

Although a fully redesigned model is right around the corner, the 2016 Traverse continues to be a competitive choice in this class.
The Traverse could be viewed as the blue-collar member of GM's large crossover trio, which also includes the upscale Buick Enclave and the "Professional Grade" GMC Acadia. But the Chevrolet is quite nice in its own right and can be equipped with nearly the same set of upscale luxury features as its siblings. The Traverse offers a cavernous interior, and while drivers are unlikely to feel like they're at the wheel of a Mini -- the 40.4-foot turning circle makes for a rather unwieldy feel in tight parking lots -- it's certainly easier to wheel around town than bulky body-on-frame SUVs like Chevy's own Suburban. Additionally, the Traverse rides comfortably and boasts enviable crash test scores.
If you're shopping in this segment, there are some fresher rivals to check out. Honda's Pilot is redesigned for 2016, with a new look and a roomier third-row seat. The face-lifted Ford Explorer isn't as roomy in back, but it offers upgraded engines that provide either improved fuel economy or more power. Other recommended options include the handsome and well-equipped Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Highlander, which is one of the great all-rounders. Among these tough competitors, though, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse holds its own with a nice blend of comfort, space and value.
Performance & mpg
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse features a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 281 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque in the LS and LT trim levels. The LTZ's dual exhaust outlets bump output up to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft. A six-speed automatic is the only available transmission, but buyers have a choice of standard front-wheel or optional all-wheel drive in all but the Base LS model (which is front-drive only).
In Edmunds testing, an all-wheel-drive LTZ sprinted to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, which is a bit slow for a large crossover. Properly equipped, the Traverse can tow up to 5,200 pounds. EPA fuel economy estimates are 18 mpg combined (15 city/22 highway) with front-wheel drive and 17 mpg combined (15/22) with all-wheel drive. These are average fuel economy numbers for a large, V6-powered crossover.
Properly equipped, a Traverse can tow up to 5,200 pounds.
Safety
Standard safety features on all 2016 Chevy Traverse models include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, a rearview camera, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. OnStar is also standard and includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlocking, stolen vehicle assistance and turn-by-turn navigation.
A unique center airbag between the front seats, which is designed to protect occupants from colliding with one another in the event of a side impact, is an option on the 1LS trim level and standard on LT and LTZ. Rear parking sensors are also standard on the LT and LTZ. A blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring system is standard on the LTZ, as are forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning systems. The latter two are optional on 2LT models.
In Edmunds brake testing, an all-wheel-drive LTZ required 119 feet to stop from 60 mph, a better-than-average result for a large three-row crossover SUV.
In government crash tests, the Traverse earned a top five-star (out of five) rating for overall performance, with five stars for overall front-impact protection and five stars for overall side-impact protection. The Traverse also fared well in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, in which it received the highest rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. The Traverse's seat/head restraint design was also rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Driving
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse displays exactly the kind of road manners you'd want in a large, three-row family crossover. The ride quality is comfortable, composed and quiet on the highway, providing an assuredness that drivers switching from bigger truck-based SUVs will appreciate. At the same time, the suspension delivers sure handling and surprisingly good maneuverability for such a large vehicle. That said, smaller rivals are more responsive on twisting roads or in tight urban spaces, and the Traverse's wide turning circle can make it rather cumbersome to maneuver.

Around town, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is a little cumbersome to drive.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine is fine for most day-to-day driving conditions, but feels a little anemic when maximum acceleration is called for, such as attempting to pass slower traffic on a two-lane road. The six-speed automatic transmission generally delivers smooth gearchanges, but can feel sluggish when you need a quick downshift in situations like getting up to speed on freeway on-ramps.
Interior
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse features a roomy interior with handsome styling and respectable materials quality. The overall look and feel ranges from pleasant in the lower models to downright upscale in the top-of-the-line LTZ trim level.
Front-row passengers will enjoy abundant head- and legroom, as will second-row occupants, but the middle-row seat cushions are a bit low. Sliding those seats all the way back alleviates this legroom issue, but effectively kills third-row legroom. Access to the back is a breeze thanks to big rear doors, though the second-row slide release is difficult to access. Once you're back there, the Traverse's third row isn't as comfortable as that of the 2016 Honda Pilot, for example. It's realistically best suited for small-stature adults or children, especially if you want to fit three across.

The 2016 Traverse is quite simply the boss of this segment in terms of cargo capacity.
As is invariably the case with three-row vehicles, rearward visibility is almost nonexistent when you have a full crew onboard, so the standard rearview camera is a huge help. The camera's image and infotainment system controls are displayed on a 6.5-inch touchscreen that's mounted a little too low on the dash to view with a quick glance and surrounded by touch-sensitive secondary buttons that may look vaguely interesting, but are less functional than normal buttons. The occasionally slow response of the MyLink system to your inputs is another drawback.
When it comes to cargo space, the Traverse is definitely a leader in its class. Even with the third-row seats in place, it can carry more luggage than most rivals. Space remains abundant when lowering either the second or third rows, as the Traverse offers more cargo space than any crossover apart from its corporate siblings, the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia.
2016 Chevrolet Traverse models
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV with seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. There are essentially three main trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ. However, the LS is further divided into Base (1SM) and LS, while the LT is subdivided into 1LT and 2LT variants.

High-end versions of the 2016 Traverse don't come cheap, but you get luxury-grade appointments in return.
Standard features on the entry-level Base LS (1SM) include 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, roof rails, a rear spoiler, front and rear air-conditioning, 60/40-split folding second- and third-row seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, the OnStar telematics system with 4G LTE connectivity, a rearview camera, a 6.5-inch touchscreen display and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack, a USB audio interface and two additional USB charge-only ports. The Base LS model is only available with front-wheel drive.
The LS (1LS) model adds satellite radio. All-wheel drive and other extra-cost options not offered on the 1SM are available on the 1LS.
Stepping up to the 1LT trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, an occupant-protection airbag mounted between the front seats, foglights, heated outside mirrors, rear parking sensors, remote start, an eight-way power driver seat (with two-way power lumbar) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The 2LT includes all of the above plus an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, second-row captain's chairs (the second-row bench seat is still optional) and rear-seat audio controls and headphone jacks. You also get the MyLink infotainment interface, which includes Bluetooth audio connectivity, voice controls, Internet radio app integration and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.
The top-of-the-line LTZ model comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, power-folding mirrors, a blind-spot monitoring system, a rear cross-traffic alert system, forward collision warning and lane-departure alert. Inside, the LTZ boasts leather upholstery, driver seat and side mirror memory function, an eight-way power front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a navigation system. The second-row captain's chairs are also mandatory.
Some of the upper trim levels' standard features are available as options on lesser models. Also available, depending on trim level, are a panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system (includes a household-style electrical outlet) and a towing package.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.
5 star(33%)
4 star(31%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(12%)
1 star(17%)
42 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
First 10K across the USA
Brad, 01/21/2017
2016 Chevrolet Traverse LT 4dr SUV AWD w/2LT (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I feel like I can write a solid review since we have driven this vehicle in every climate and weather extreme. We were in the market for a new family car and made our purchase in July 2016. We tested everything in class to include Honda Pilot, Volvo XC70, Subaru Outback, and the Toyota 4runner. At the end of the day the Traverse made the cut due to its interior, cargo capacity (over … 100 cubic feet!), and entertainment features. We were able to get into the 2LT trim line that has four captain's chairs and a third row all clad in soft leather. We bought ours during the 20% off sale, all said and done we walked out the door at $28K for a 42K vehicle. For active duty military you cannot beat Chevy's incentives. Watch for reduced prices on the 2017s as the new 2018s are getting a new body design. We drove the vehicle from PA to our new home in AR without any issues. A week later my wife drove the Traverse from AR to FL with heat indexes over 110 degrees. The vehicle pacified a our 4 year old granddaughter, our 15 year old and our 25 year old. All three seating areas have vents and there is second row and third row climate control which is a big plus during the summer months. This past December our family took a vacation from AR to MT during the big winter storm that came through before Christmas. The distance was over 2,000 miles and we encountered white out conditions, 50 mph crosswinds in WY, and general winter conditions. Comfort wise the Traverse allowed me to put over 1,000 miles of driving on our first day without any lower back pain or leg pain. The vehicle is very solid and didn't budge during the high crosswinds which had blown tractor trailers off the road. The AWD is amazing at keeping traction where it is needed. The road noise is almost nonexistent and there are no little creaks or rattles what so ever. Temperatures on that trip ranged from 40 degrees to minus 15. In WY on our return trip I was able to cruise at 85mph and the Traverse held at about 2k rpms. It had no problem staying in gear even at high speeds. Combined fuel economy after 10k is 20.2 MPGs. I purposely did not reset the "gallons of fuel used" in the driver information center so I could get an accurate number later on. There is plenty of power at highway speeds for passing. The side blind spot sensor is a big help as the vehicle layout does present a significant blind spot and is tricky when passing. This is hands down the best family vehicle that we have owned. I really cannot find a negative thing to say about it.
5 out of 5 stars
Love the upgrade from a minivan!
Michelle aka Happy Traverse Owner, 03/03/2017
2016 Chevrolet Traverse LS Base 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Update 4/22/23. I traded in my traverse December. Still nothing was wrong with it except I had 175000 miles on it. Whatever car I have is our travel everywhere car and my kids are grown now so I wanted something with less miles and smaller. Never had any regrets for buying the traverse. If I still needed 3 rows, I would buy another one!! Hope the new owner gets tons more miles on … it.
Update 10/18/22 still loving it. Almost 180,000 and thank goodness, no problems. Just normal wear and tear. Still highly recommend!!
Update 11/20/21 still a great vehicle. Almost 160,000 miles and no problems! My biggest expense has been tires but not such a bad thing. That just means I've been able to get in and go!!
Update 5/18/21. Still not complaints. Everything working as it should. Now have 136,000 mike's on it.
Update 9/18/20. Still no complaints. Over 120,000 miles on it. Runs great! When my daughter turns 16 she says she wants my car. I will be buying another Traverse!!
Update 3/14/2020. Still no complaints. Over 100,000 miles now!! Knock on wood-still not a single problem!!!
Update 3/6/19. Still no complaints. Over 80,000 miles now on it and not a single problem!!!
Update 9/6/18. Still no complaints. Have 67,000 miles on it and not one problem. That's a lot of miles given the standard is 15,000 per year but I didn't buy it to just sit in the driveway. I plan on keeping it for a long time and will probably buy another one when it's time. Great vehicle. Oh and just to know how much our family likes this car , my 13 year old wants it when she turns 16. I bet we'll still have it!
Update:. As of 3/5/18. I still love my Traverse. I have put about 25,000 miles on it in the first year!. Great driver on trips. Love the heated seats. Everything is still great with the exception of what I said earlier about trim on interior around seat controls and seats not reclining enough. My kids are comfortable when traveling. They live that they can plug in their headphones and listen to something different than I am. Sound system is great. Will most likely buy another one when I have wore this one out!!
Update : as of 9/2/17 i still love my traverse. I would say the only flaw in the design is the middle seats dont recline very far. Not comfortable for long trips, the head rests on the front seats slide forward to easily, and the trim work on the drivers seat that goes around the seat controls breaks too easily. My extended warranty i purchased does not cover the trim work.. Overall, still love it.
Love my 2016 Chevy Traverse. My kids love the middle seats and being able to control their music and ac or heat. I love that I can listen to what I want and they can use their headphones and listen to something different. Plenty of legroom in middle and third row seats. Comfortable ride. Great adjustable lumbar support for driver. Love how the seats fold down. Probably more sqare footage in a minivan with all the seats down or removed, but no complaints here. There is really nothing negative I can say about this car. Bought it with only 24,000 miles so it is basically a brand new car for me. Glad to be out of the minivan without giving up my cargo space. Given the safety ratings on the Dodge Caravan has been rated poor while the safety ratings for the traverse are rated good, I will probably never go back to a minivan. I am hoping that once I reach 100,000 miles, I'll still feel the same!
1 out of 5 stars
Not buying a chevy again.
Quinn, 04/12/2018
2016 Chevrolet Traverse LT 4dr SUV AWD w/1LT (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I have owned this car for less then 3 years. I am very good about making sure I do all the regular maintenance at a chevy service dept. In the first year Chevy had to offer all owners compensation due to inflating the actual fuel economy on the vehicle sticker. My traverse does 15 miles per gallon at best. I have had repeated issues with the stabiltrack traction control misfiring … and causing my car to decelerate on its own to below 30 miles / hour. This has happened while going over 55 on the highway several times. Upon searching this issue, many people have reported a similar experience. The dealer was unable to find or fix the issue. With my latest issue, a part within the transmission broke, causing me to break down and require a tow (on a road with no shoulder with all 3 kids in the car). This car is less then 3 years old!!!! While fixing the transmission I was also informed I had a leak in my power steering hose. I have been put in several very unsafe situations because of this car. I would NOT buy another chevy. At this point , I am not even confident I can keep this one for fear of breaking down again or having ongoing issues. I did contact Chevy Customer Service with my concerns, they informed me "They were sorry".
4 out of 5 stars
Positives outweigh negatives
Richinbk, 02/19/2016
2016 Chevrolet Traverse LS 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I got a very basic model so theres nothing too impressive to mention except that the truck is roomy in all directions, rides very well and looks good. My only major complaint would be poor fuel mileage. Sticker claims i should be getting 19 city and 24 highway. I'm actually getting about 12 or 13 mpg city and jury is out on highway mileage since I do mostly city driving. I have AWD so … maybe thats the culprit. Otherwise, so far so good. Can't wait to take it on a nice road trip.*"*** Updated***highway mileage is no better than city..stuck at the 12 to 13 mpg range
2016 Traverse Highlights
LS Base
Base MSRP | $28,700 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $245/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 24.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover16.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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