The Flex - and the similar Lincoln MKT - don’t feature a large pass-through like this, so it isn’t as easy to maneuver between rows. Families with dogs may also appreciate this.
It also allows for an open pass-through to the third row, which is a nice feature often found in minivans. If you have older kids, they’ll likely prefer this setup, as it gives them plenty of breathing space. While the Traverse is available with a second-row bench, my test car was equipped with two captain’s chairs in that spot, which isn’t as accommodating for child-safety seats as the standard third-row bench. While it’s not so high that young families should immediately cross it off their shopping list, there are a number of vehicles that make the task easier - for example, Ford’s low-riding Flex. The height of the rear passenger seats is a little too much for lifting kids in and out of their child-safety seats. But if you’re in the parent group, there are a few things you’ll definitely want to know before you consider the Traverse.Īs the parent of two kids under age 2, the Traverse isn’t a perfect fit for my family. If you don’t, well … you’re getting a lot of crossover for your friends. There’s no escaping it: If you’re shopping for a Traverse, there’s a good chance you have kids. Our tester’s MSRP, with options and destination fee, was more than $41,000. For this review, I tested the top-of-the-line LTZ, front-wheel-drive model that starts at $37,985 the base Traverse starts at $29,224. You can see what’s changed between the two here, or read our 2009 review here. Its good looks, winning drivability and interior quality help it compete well with the rest of the class.įor 2010, the Chevy Traverse remains relatively unchanged from the 2009 model reviewed last year, when the crossover was all-new. To see what’s new for 2011, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years.Īs car buyers gravitate away from SUVs and minivans toward three-row crossovers, the Chevy Traverse has become one of GM’s biggest successes.
Little of substance has changed with this year’s model. Editor’s note: This review was written in February 2010 about the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse.