More for Less With Chevrolet: Your Used Traverse Buyer’s Guide

It’s time to upgrade your garage with a versatile SUV that guarantees more for your money and offers plenty of engagement in the driver’s seat. Shopping new often means dropping a substantial amount of money on something you might not enjoy, but when shopping for a used Chevy Traverse for sale, you’re guaranteed exceptional value at a reasonable cost. The Traverse has been a staple in the Chevy lineup since 2009, showcasing the American automotive pioneer’s dedication to giving drivers more for their money.

The Traverse debuted as a three-row SUV to widespread acclaim as the successor to the original TrailBlazer. With more stylish looks and modern technologies, the first-generation Traverse set the stage for the second-generation Traverse, which debuted in 2018 with a smaller, lightweight frame that secured its place in the three-row segment. Chevrolet introduced the third-generation Traverse as a 2024 model, but what does that mean for you? A whole lot of Traverse to choose from!

If you’re shopping for a used Traverse, you’ll need to explore the broad swathe of different models, trims, and packages ranging from 2018 to 2023. As your used Chevy destination, we’re here to kickstart that shopping spree by highlighting the top features from the Traverse’s second generation. Let’s get started!

The Start of a New Generation: Meet the 2018 Traverse

Chevrolet introduced the second-generation Traverse in 2018 with an all-new look that garnered widespread praise. Looking less like a minivan and more like an athletic road warrior, the 2018 Traverse also revitalized its role as a three-row SUV because of its smaller dimensions and lightweight design. Even so, the 2018 Traverse offers a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates passengers and cargo across three rows.

Shopping for a 2018 Traverse is an excellent way to stretch your hard-earned dollar and reap the benefits of Chevrolet’s success at building long-lasting and reliable vehicles. The 2018 Traverse introduces the luxurious High Country, sporty RS, and a more configurable cabin via a new split-folding second-row or captain’s chairs. A 3.6L V6 engine, clocking in at 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, is standard across the third-generation lineup starting from 2018. On the 2018 Traverse RS, you can find a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 engine exclusive to front-wheel drive setups, clocking 257 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission.

Other Things to Consider:

• The RS exudes athleticism with its blacked-out exterior elements stretching from the grille to the wheels.
• The Premier Redline Edition adds red and black accents, blacked-out exterior elements, dark tail lamps, and a Dual Skyscape two-panel power sunroof for a distinct aesthetic.
• The MyLink infotainment system features a seven-inch or eight-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Top-tier trims, like the High Country, also have wireless smartphone charging and adaptive cruise control.

More All-Season Confidence, More Premium Details: Meet the 2019 Traverse

Riding the high from its second-generation debut in 2018, the 2019 Traverse sees only a few upgrades for the following year. The updates are notable for those looking for all-season confidence and a sportier Traverse. How so?

Chevrolet introduced the RS to the Traverse lineup in 2018, but the model was only available as a front-wheel drive SUV with the standard four-cylinder engine, making it sporty by design only. Chevrolet remedies the issue in 2019 by offering the Traverse RS as an all-wheel drive model with a more potent 3.6L V6 engine. The combination delivers all-season confidence, enhancing the Traverse RS’s handling to match its aesthetic.

Beyond the new engine and drivetrain option, the 2019 Traverse RT also includes the LT Premium Package, available as an upgrade on the mid-tier LT. The package adds luxury and advanced features to the 2019 Traverse to give you more bang for your buck. For example, models with the LT Premium Package feature a Surround Vision camera, Rear Camera Mirror, Bose speakers, a 110-volt outlet, 20-inch aluminum wheels, and an eight-inch display with navigation.

Other Things to Consider:

• You’ll enjoy convenience features comparable to the latest models, like keyless open and start, remote start, Teen Driver, wireless smartphone charging, and adaptive cruise control.
• Driver comfort is paramount in the 2019 Traverse, which offers heated and ventilated front seats. Top-tier trims like the Premier and High Country also come with heated second-row seats.
• Traction Mode Select gives you more control over the Traverse’s performance to match your driving needs and the conditions.

Enjoy More Choices and More Features: Meet the 2020 and 2021 Traverse

The 2020 and 2021 Traverse share the spotlight because they have the same features after the pandemic halted Chevrolet’s production, meaning the 2021 Traverse is a carryover model. Thankfully, used shoppers benefit the most because they can enjoy the Traverse’s exciting updates from 2020 across two model years without paying a premium. What do those updates entail?

The 2020 Traverse introduces the all-new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system on a seven-inch or eight-inch display and more standard features, like the HD Rear Vision Camera that’s upgraded to the HD Surround Vision Camera on the RS, Premier, and High Country. Chevrolet also makes waves by introducing the industry’s first Buckle to Drive technology, which complements the Traverse’s Teen Driver technology that reminds young drivers to buckle their seatbelts before they can shift out of park.

Chevrolet also simplifies the Traverse’s powertrain lineup by eliminating the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, leaving all models from 2020 onwards with the 3.6L V6 engine. However, this engine is still impressive, offering the Traverse plenty of low-end power to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Towing, in particular, received some love in 2020 and 2021 with the addition of an available rear camera mirror on some models and tools like Hitch Guidance with Hitch View.

Other Things to Consider:

• Take advantage of the added versatility with this year: you have your choice of front- and all-wheel drive available on any number of trims ranging from the base L to the luxurious High Country.
• Driver and passenger comfort is exemplified in the 2020 Traverse with standard Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, keeping your cabin as warm or cold as it needs to be all year round.
• Safety features continue to expand from 2020 onwards, including new options like the Convenience and Driver Confidence Package and the Driver Confidence II Package that, depending on the trim, adds technologies like Rear Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and Front Pedestrian Braking.

New Style, New Tech: Meet the 2022 and 2023 Traverse

The 2022 Traverse introduces a mid-cycle refresh for the SUV, with new design features and exterior elements that freshen its appearance and heighten its appeal on the used lot. Chevrolet debuts a new front fascia, grille, and standard LED headlamps and redesigns the LED taillamps and roof rail. The Traverse’s exterior color palette also grows in 2022 to include Northsky Blue Metallic, Silver Sage Metallic, and Cherry Red Tintcoat. In 2023, Chevy added Radiant Red Tintcoat and Sterling Gray Metallic to the list of available colors.

The 2022 Traverse also introduces more driver-assist technologies and a more upscale interior that complements the 2023 Traverse’s all-new steering wheel and shift knob design. The notable increase in driver-assistance and tech features gives the 2022 and 2023 Traverse more appeal for drivers willing to borrow features from some newer models. For example, the Chevy Safety Assist suite becomes standard in 2022, equipping the Traverse with refined versions of Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, a Following Distance Indicator, IntelliBeam automatic high beams, and Forward Collision Alert. On higher trim levels, you can find some more experimental features like Rear Pedestrian Alert, a Safety Alert Seat, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Other Things to Consider:

• The models introduce wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for hassle-free smartphone integration.
• For 2022 and 2023, Chevrolet also expands the driver information center to an eight-inch display on top-tier trims like the Premier and High Country.

Shopping With Chevrolet: More for Your Money

As you can see, buying a used Chevy Traverse is an excellent investment of both time and money, given the model’s evolution throughout its second generation and the versatility of features offered in just a single generation. Chevrolet consistently updates their models to accommodate drivers’ needs and exceed expectations, from design elements to technologies and powertrains. As a result, even if you opt for a Chevy besides the Traverse, you can expect plenty of high-value options that keep more money in your wallet and more features at your fingertips when you visit our lot at DePaula Chevrolet.