Today Hot Report

What is it? The Chevrolet Traverse is Chevrolet’s version of the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook SUVs. The Traverse will have three rows of seating for 7 or 8 passengers and will have a slide feature for easy access to the third-row seats. GM claims the third row is comfortable enough to fit adults and retain storage capacity behind it. Our experience with the related Saturn Outlook supports that.

The Traverse will be offered in three trim lines with the option of front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive configurations. No engine configuration has been announced, although a 3.6-liter V6 is likely. Electronic stability control will be standard, as well as six air bags including three that deploy over all seating rows.

The Traverse exterior adapts styling cues from the redesigned Malibu, as well as the front end treatment common on all new Chevrolets. Other design details include turn signals integrated on the side mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, and roof rails.

CR’s take: The Enclave, Acadia,and Outlook are among the best SUVs in their class. With the addition of direct injection, we hope the Traverse improves on the 16 mpg overall we recorded with the Outlook. These models are good choices for buyers who want a roomy interior but don’t need hefty towing capacity.

When will it be available? Fall 2008. Prices start at $28,990.