What year did they change the body of the Traverse?

The body of the Chevrolet Traverse was redesigned for the 2018 model year, marking the start of the second generation.

The Traverse debuted in 2009 as a first-generation, three-row crossover. In 2018, Chevrolet unveiled a thoroughly redesigned second generation with a new exterior silhouette, a roomier interior, updated technology, and revised dynamics. This article explains the timeline and what changed when the body was updated.

What changed with the 2018 redesign

The following highlights summarize the major changes introduced with the 2018 Traverse redesign. Each item reflects broad shifts in style, space, and capability that accompanied the new generation.

• Exterior styling: A completely redesigned front and rear end, refreshed grille, headlights, and overall proportions to give the Traverse a more modern and upscale look.


• Interior and cargo space: A redesigned cabin with improved materials, a more practical layout, and increased passenger and cargo room overall.


• Chassis and ride quality: Suspension tuning and handling characteristics were revised for a smoother ride and more confident on-road behavior.


• Powertrain and efficiency: Updated engine options and a revised transmission lineup aimed at better performance and efficiency for daily driving.


• Technology and safety: An updated infotainment system, improved smartphone integration, and enhanced driver-assistance features were introduced.

In short, the 2018 model year marks the big body reset for the Traverse, initiating the second generation with a new look, more space, and updated tech.

How to tell a second-generation Traverse from the first

If you’re evaluating a used Traverse or comparing models, these cues help identify the generation and ensure you’re looking at the redesigned body first introduced in 2018.

• Exterior cues: The 2018-and-later Traverse features a noticeably redesigned front fascia and taillight styling compared with the 2009–2017 first generation.


• Interior cues: The dashboard layout and a larger center touchscreen (plus updated materials and controls) distinguish second-generation models.


• Dimensions and space: The second-generation model offers more interior room and cargo capacity due to a redesigned cabin and, in many trims, a longer wheelbase.


• Model year confirmation: For a conclusive check, verify the vehicle’s model year (2018 or newer) on the window sticker or VIN decoding; this is the most reliable way to confirm generation.

These indicators help buyers spot the generation when shopping—ensuring they know they’re getting the updated body and the associated features and ride characteristics.

Summary

The Chevrolet Traverse’s most significant body change occurred with the 2018 model year, starting the second generation. This shift brought a new exterior design, a roomier and more refined interior, updated technology, and revised driving dynamics. For prospective buyers or current owners, recognizing the generation helps in understanding available features, warranties, and servicing needs.

What's the difference between the 2025 and 2026 traverse?

The main differences are that the 2026 Traverse features updated interior ergonomics, new exterior color options, a standard key card system, and standard HD Surround Vision across all trims. In contrast, the 2025 model has some features optional or unavailable on certain trims that become standard on the 2026 model, such as the Rear Camera Mirror being standard in the Driver Confidence Package for the LT trim. 
Exterior

• 2026: Gains two new exterior paint colors: Polar White Tricoat and Sandstone Gray. 
• 2025: Original color palette included colors like Iridescent Pearl Tricoat and Harvest Bronze Metallic. 
• Both: Share the same overall design inspired by larger SUVs, including the Z71's rugged features. 

Interior

• 2026:
  • Redesigned center console for improved functionality, with a new shifter and more storage. 
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on the available 8-inch infotainment system. 
  • New interior color options, including Jet Black/Maple Sugar. 
• 2025:
  • Interior features on the 2025 model may be more limited depending on the trim and package. For instance, the Rear Camera Mirror was only available on higher trims in 2025. 
• Both: Offer spacious seating for up to eight passengers and a large cargo hold. 

Technology and safety

• 2026:
  • Includes HD Surround Vision as a standard feature across all trims. 
  • The Driver Confidence package now includes the Rear Camera Mirror on the LT trim. 
  • A key card system is available for keyless entry and push-button start. 
• 2025:
  • Some features, like the Rear Camera Mirror, were limited to certain higher trims and not available on the LT model. 
• Both: Offer other advanced safety technologies like Super Cruise and wireless charging. 

Performance

• 2026: The 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission carry over from the 2025 model, with the same horsepower, torque, and towing capacity. 
• 2025: Also equipped with the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, with identical power and towing figures. 

What is the bad year for the Traverse?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Traverse include the earliest models, particularly 2009-2012, and the 2018 model, due to significant issues like transmission, steering, and engine problems. Other years with known problems include 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2015, which were affected by a range of complaints from steering and engine issues to AC problems. 
Early models to avoid

• 2009-2012: These early models are frequently cited for mechanical issues. 
  • 2009-2011: Prone to oil consumption, hard steering, and transmission problems. 
  • 2012: Affected by steering, engine, and AC problems. 
• 2014-2017: While less problematic than the earlier models, the 2015 year is specifically mentioned as having AC, steering, and engine issues. 

Other problematic years

• 2018: This year is particularly noted for transmission, engine, and electrical system malfunctions. 

What to look for instead

• More recent models, like the 2020 and 2021 versions, generally show improvements and have fewer reported problems, according to Powers Swain Chevrolet. 
• If considering older models, the 2014-2017 years are the least problematic within the first generation, notes CarGurus.com. 

What is the best model year for the Chevy Traverse?

The best years for the Chevy Traverse are generally considered to be 2019 and newer, particularly those with the second-generation redesign (2018-2023), as they offer improved reliability and features. Some owners also point to 2016 as a solid choice within the first generation due to having fewer complaints than earlier years. For used buyers, newer models (2018+) provide a much better driving experience and reliability than the first generation (2009-2017). 
Recommended years to consider

• 2018–2023: This second-generation represents a significant improvement over the first, with a much better reliability record and a smoother ride thanks to a nine-speed transmission. 
• 2019, 2020, 2021: These years are specifically highlighted as strong choices within the second generation for good reliability. 
• 2022 and newer: These model years offer additional technology upgrades, such as standard adaptive cruise control and 360° cameras on higher trims. 
• 2016: This is one of the better years of the first generation, with fewer complaints than earlier models. 

Years to be cautious of

• First-generation models (2009–2017): This generation has a worse-than-average reliability record, with common issues including transmission problems, steering, and climate control. While some later years like 2016 and 2017 are better, the overall record for this generation is not as strong.
• 2010–2012: These early models in the first generation are best avoided due to a higher incidence of reported problems.
• 2012–2015: These years are frequently mentioned for issues with air conditioning, steering, and the engine. 

When did the Traverse body style change?

The Traverse body style last changed with a full redesign for the 2024 model year, which launched the third generation of the vehicle. Prior to this, the most recent significant body style update was a mid-cycle refresh for the 2013 model year, with minor exterior tweaks for the 2022 model year.
 

• Most recent redesign (2024): The 2024 model year introduced a new generation with a bolder, more squared-off design, a wider stance, and updated front and rear styling. 
• Minor update (2022): The styling was tweaked for the 2022 model year to give it a sleeker appearance, but it was not a complete redesign. 
• Mid-cycle refresh (2013): The 2013 model year received a thorough redesign with new styling and an updated interior.