Do all Chevy Traverse have a 3rd-row?
In short, yes. All current Chevrolet Traverse models come with a third-row seat, and buyers can choose between a 3-passenger second row bench or a 2-passenger captain’s chairs setup. The third row remains standard across the lineup, while seating capacity varies with the second-row configuration.
Current seating reality
Understanding how the Traverse is configured today helps you shop with confidence. The third row is a constant feature, and the main variation is how the second row is arranged, which changes total passenger capacity rather than eliminating the third row.
Seat configurations explained
- All current Traverse trims (LS, LT, RS, Premier) include a third-row seat as standard, designed to accommodate three passengers in the rear.
- The second row can be either a 3-passenger bench or a 2-passenger captain’s chairs setup. The option you pick affects seating count but not the presence of the third row.
- With a second-row bench, the Traverse accommodates up to eight passengers; with captain’s chairs, it seats up to seven.
- There is no factory option to remove the third row or offer a two-row Traverse; the vehicle remains a three-row SUV across trims.
In short: the third row is a defining, enduring feature of the Traverse, while the second-row choice determines whether you carry eight or seven passengers.
Cargo space and everyday practicality
Beyond passenger capacity, buyers often weigh cargo flexibility. The presence of a third row impacts available space, but folding seats expands practical cargo room significantly.
Cargo space numbers
- Behind the third row: about 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
- With the third row folded (second row still in use): roughly 58.1 cubic feet.
- With both the third and second rows folded: approximately 98.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
Conclusion: The third row remains a constant in the Traverse, and folding seats provides substantial cargo flexibility depending on how many passengers you’re carrying.
Summary
The Chevrolet Traverse is designed as a three-row SUV across its current lineup. Every trim includes a third-row seat, and you control seating capacity through the second-row configuration (bench for up to eight passengers or captain’s chairs for up to seven). There is no factory two-row option, making the third row a standard feature that also enables flexible cargo planning when needed.
Do all Chevy Traverse have 3rd-row seating?
Yes, all Chevy Traverse models are three-row SUVs. However, the number of seats can vary, with configurations for either seven or eight passengers depending on the trim and second-row seating option chosen. Most models come standard with a second-row bench seat for 8-passenger capacity, but higher trims or optional packages may offer second-row captain's chairs for a 7-passenger setup.
- Seating capacity: All Traverse models have a third row, but the total number of seats is either 7 or 8.
- Standard configuration: The standard configuration is typically an 8-seater with a second-row bench seat.
- Optional configuration: A 7-seat configuration is available on many trims, which replaces the second-row bench with captain's chairs for more space and easier third-row access.
- Trim differences: The specific seating configuration can sometimes depend on the trim level.
Which Chevy Traverse has 7 seats?
Comparing the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse Trims
| 2025 Chevy Traverse LT | 2025 Chevy Traverse RS | |
|---|---|---|
| 7-Passenger Seating | Standard | Standard |
| 8-Passenger Seating | Available | Available |
| Seat Material | Premium Cloth | Perforated Leather |
| Digital Display Size | 17.7 in | 17.7 in |
Which is bigger, Pathfinder or Traverse?
The Chevrolet Traverse is bigger than the Nissan Pathfinder, as it is a full-size SUV while the Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV. The Traverse offers more interior and cargo space, with a larger overall length and width, and often has more room in the third row for passengers.
Chevrolet Traverse
- Classification: Full-size SUV
- Interior space: More interior and cargo room than the Pathfinder
- Passenger capacity: Can seat up to eight passengers
- Dimensions: Longer and wider than the Pathfinder
Nissan Pathfinder
- Classification: Mid-size SUV
- Interior space: More confined than the Traverse, especially in the rear rows and cargo area
- Passenger capacity: Seating for up to seven or eight depending on trim
- Dimensions: Shorter and narrower than the Traverse
What's the most common problem with a Chevy Traverse?
The most common problems with the Chevy Traverse include transmission issues, engine troubles like excessive oil consumption and timing chain problems, and steering and electrical system malfunctions. These issues are more prevalent in earlier models, with transmission and engine problems being a frequent complaint across various model years.
Common problems by system
This video explains the common reliability issues and problems with the Chevy Traverse: 59sNexologyYouTube · Oct 28, 2025
- Transmission: Owners report a range of problems, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and complete transmission failure. Some models have issues with a "Shift to Park" message, especially after shutting down the vehicle.
- Engine:
- Excessive oil consumption: Some owners have reported that their engines consume a lot of oil.
- Timing chains: Earlier models are prone to timing chain issues, which can lead to a ticking noise and potential failure.
- Other issues: Some models experience engine stalling, shuddering, and a check engine light.
- Steering: Problems include power steering fluid leaks, noisy steering, and a general lack of power steering feel.
- Electrical: Issues can include a malfunctioning infotainment system, battery drain, and various error messages. In some cases, components like alternators and starter motors have failed prematurely.
- Other:
- Brakes: Unusual brake noises have been reported.
- Climate control: Air conditioning system problems, such as compressor failure and refrigerant leaks, are also common.
- Exhaust: Exhaust leaks and other issues with the exhaust system have been noted.
