What are the pros and cons of the 2017 Chevy Traverse?
The 2017 Traverse is a spacious, family-oriented SUV with solid V6 power and a comfortable ride, but it compromises on fuel economy and interior refinement compared with some rivals.
Designed to haul people and cargo, the Traverse offers seating for up to eight and a cavernous cargo area, along with a smooth highway ride and practical tech. Yet its third-row space can feel cramped for adults, and some buyers will prefer newer infotainment features and more efficient powertrains found in rivals.
Pros
Here are the main advantages that appeal to families and daily drivers.
- Roomy seating for up to eight (or seven with captain's chairs).
- Spacious cargo area; versatility with second- and third-row folding.
- Strong 3.6L V6 engine delivering confident acceleration for highway speed and towing.
- Comfortable, smooth ride with a relatively quiet cabin.
- Solid value in the segment, especially on higher trims with more features.
- Practical features: available all-wheel drive, rear-seat entertainment, and a user-friendly (though older) infotainment interface.
In this light, the Traverse offers a compelling package for buyers prioritizing space and everyday usability, especially for larger families or those with frequent cargo needs.
Cons
Here are the trade-offs and drawbacks to weigh against the pros.
- Third-row seating can be tight for adults; best for kids or shorter trips.
- Fuel economy is middling for a midsize SUV, particularly with all-wheel drive.
- Interior materials and overall refinement trail some rivals in the price range.
- Infotainment can feel dated and laggy on base trims; smartphone integration may be limited in older models.
- Handling is not as nimble as some rivals; the vehicle can feel bulky in tight spaces or windy roads.
- Some owners report maintenance concerns and recalls in older model years; ensure a full service history and pre-purchase inspection.
Overall, the Traverse's size and power come with practical downsides that are common in this class, especially on efficiency and tech front.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2017 Traverse relies on a 3.6-liter V6 that produces about 281 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. The engine provides solid acceleration for a three-row SUV, and towing capacity is typically around 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Fuel economy sits in the mid-teens in city driving and low- to mid-20s on the highway, with AWD slightly lowering those numbers.
Engine and Handling
Power is adequate for most daily driving and highway merging, and the long-wheelbase design helps ride quality. Steering is mostly light and predictable, but not sporty. Body roll is noticeable in corners, especially with a full payload.
Fuel Economy
Expect around 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway in typical configurations, with some variation based on drivetrain, load, and tire choice. Compared with rivals like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, economy is generally middling for the class.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Traverse is designed to maximize space, with a roomy second row and a comfortable third row for children or smaller adults. Cargo space is substantial, especially with the second and third rows folded, giving a flexible setup for gear, luggage, or equipment. Access to the third row is easier than some competitors due to a wide door opening and accessible seat tracks.
Seating and Comfort
Seven or eight-passenger configurations are available, with captain's chairs reducing seating to seven but enhancing comfort for front and middle-row passengers. Higher trims add more padding, soft-touch surfaces, and refined materials compared with base models.
Cargo and Versatility
With rows in use, cargo remains practical for family trips; with rows folded, it expands substantially to accommodate larger loads. The second row slides forward to facilitate entry to the third row on models with bench seating.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
As a late-2010s model, the Traverse generally lands in the average range for reliability in its class. Some owners report maintenance and repair costs in line with other mid-size SUVs. When shopping, review service history and check for any recall work completed and ensure the vehicle has a clean title and documented maintenance.
Maintenance Considerations
Routine service intervals cover oil changes, brake service, tire rotation, and transmission service as per GM's guidelines. Costs are typical for a family SUV, but potential buyers should budget for tires and brake wear given the vehicle's size and weight.
What to Consider if You're Shopping Now
Because this is an older generation, buyers should verify trim features, infotainment capabilities, and safety equipment, which vary by year and option package. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended.
Trim and Feature Variability
Higher trims add more safety tech and comfort features, but base models may lack modern smartphone integration and driver-assistance options that have become standard in newer rivals.
How it Compares with Rivals
In space, cargo, and horsepower categories, the Traverse competes with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder. Each has its strengths, so buyers should test drive and compare fuel economy, seating comfort, and tech features to decide the best fit.
Summary
The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse remains a standout for families who prioritize interior space and a strong V6, offering a comfortable ride and flexible seating. For shoppers who value efficiency, advanced tech, and premium interior refinement, it may trail some newer rivals. If space and practicality matter most, the Traverse is a compelling option, especially when paired with an appropriate trim and a careful pre-purchase inspection.
