2026 Chevy Traverse Release Date, Specs, Features – Chevrolet recently teased a future three-row Traverse model that will feature “more SUV-like proportions” and a more tough new off-road package. Despite all the changes between the current model and the next one, the two share a crucial characteristic: spaciousness. The Z71 package gives it a particularly attractive appearance. Plenty of it. Introduced almost fifteen years ago, this Chevrolet has maintained the demeanour and manoeuvrability of a smaller vehicle while providing substantially greater internal space than a normal three-row, such as the Nissan Pathfinder.
That holds true both now and when the next-gen vehicle is released sometime next year; so, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is a good choice if you’re looking for something more immediate. On the other hand, you get an SUV that looks and feels a bit old. 2026 Chevy Traverse Release Date
2026 Chevy Traverse Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior and Interior
In addition to its substantial inside capacity, the Traverse stands out from the competition thanks to its low step-in height and large door openings. Those with mobility issues or youngsters may appreciate the car-like access to the cabin.
The low-cut hoodline and large windows provide great visibility once you’re in the driver’s seat. The optional camera-based rearview mirror takes care of the problem by giving a live view behind the vehicle, even if vision out the back is still blocked by the rear headrests and any passengers utilising them.
In the five years since the introduction of this second-generation Traverse, in-vehicle screens have gone a long way, and the little touchscreen is a prime illustration of that. The standard screen in the next edition is over twice as big. Fortunately, the eight-inch screen is tucked away on the dash for maximum visibility, and the software it runs is top-notch, providing a user experience similar to that of a smartphone. The images are clear and well-defined, and the input response is lightning fast. There are a plethora of tactile controls for the climate, the music, and more around the cabin.
Even the lowest model of the Traverse has features that set it apart from its competitors: heated front seats, a tri-zone automated temperature control system, and active noise cancellation, which are not standard in this market. The Wi-Fi hotspot is subscription-based.
Not only that, but there are six USB outlets in total, two in each row of seats, wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an eight-inch touchscreen on most trim levels (the cheapest model has a seven-inch one). An enhanced radio with ten speakers and heated steering wheel are standard on more expensive trims like the RS model we tested here. The top two trim levels also have ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats.
2026 Chevy Traverse Specs
Engine and Performance
This 3.6L V6 is going out of production since the 2024 Traverse will have turbocharged four-cylinder engine instead. Although the output isn’t particularly impressive, it gets the job done with ease and reliability thanks to a nine-speed automated gearbox and a configurable all-wheel drive system.
The engine produces 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Specifically, the gearbox is fantastic; it responds swiftly and smoothly to circumstances like overtaking by lowering a gear to increase rpm for near-peak torque when needed.
2026 Chevy Traverse Fuel Economy
To save gas, the Traverse may operate in front-wheel drive thanks to its innovative all-wheel drive disengagement function; but, to regain traction, the system must be manually switched back on. (The vast majority of current systems take care of this automatically.) Whatever the case may be, this Chevy isn’t going to be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the block.
The official city fuel economy rating is 13.6 L/100 km, which was not exceeded in this test. The stated average was over 15.0 in the first 60 km or so, but dropped significantly as the mileage increased; after more than 630 km, the final fuel tally was 10.0 L/100 km. That’s an improvement over the 11.8 rated Traverse, which is somewhat lower than the majority of SUVs in this size category. 2026 Chevy Traverse Release Date
2026 Chevy Traverse Safety Features
Standard advanced safety features include lane departure warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, automatic high beam control, and a so-called teen driver system that can limit stereo volume and provide a detailed driving report. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic warning are included on all bar the two base models.
Though the front collision warning is very sensitive, it starts beeping and flashing whenever it detects a city street-parked car, otherwise all the devices function as intended. Aside from that, the adaptive cruise keeps a respectable distance from the traffic ahead of it and quickly returns to a predetermined pace after reducing its speed.
2026 Chevy Traverse Price and Release Date
At $44,348 (not counting the non-negotiable freight fee of $1,995), the base Traverse LS offers a relative bargain compared to other models in the sector, where costs are on the increase. The lowest-priced Telluride comes to around $53,000 before taxes, so that’s a save of roughly $8,500. As an example, the lowest priced Palisade is $51,474 (not including tax) before taxes and shipping. Both provide a plethora of extra functions, but they are far from inexpensive.
All four trim levels exceed $50,000 before taxes, with the top-of-the-line High Country reaching over $65,000, while the base LT trim remains below that threshold. Although, after adding a few options and extras, the sticker price of the RS variant tested here was $57,373.
While patiently anticipating the arrival of the new Traverse early next year is certainly acceptable, it is important to keep in mind that new cars sometimes have growing pains. There may be some hiccups for early adopters due to the brand new engine and the enormous infotainment system. If you’re seeking sheer volume and pleasant handling, you won’t find much better than the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, while it lacks the futuristic styling of its successor. 2026 Chevy Traverse Release Date