The Chevrolet Traverse will never be mistaken for a scene-stealer, but every so often, the humble crossover gets its turn in the spotlight. That much we can expect from the Traverse SUP Concept when it paddles its way to the 2017 SEMA Auto Show. Dressed to impress, the Traverse SUP Concept takes the idea of a versatile ride to a new level. It’s not just a family-hauling three-row crossover anymore. It’s become an all-purpose vehicle that’s as adept at transporting groceries as it is at hauling beach and outdoor paraphernalia.

That’s pretty much the identity of this concept, and contributions from Thule and Riviera Paddleboard help bring it to life. Most of the upgrades do come by way of Chevrolet Accessories so, in some ways, the concept also acts as a showcase of sorts for a lot of Chevrolet Accessories that are on track to hit the market soon. There’s certainly a lot to look forward to when the Traverse SUP Concept hits the scene at the 2017 SEMA Auto Show in Las Vegas. Who knows, this interpretation of the crossover could inspire you to get creative with your own Traverse. The model has shown that it’s capable of wearing many different masks, and the one we’re going to see at SEMA is just one of the lot.

Continue after the jump to read more about the Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept.

Exterior

On the surface, the Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept retains most of its standard looks. Fancy paint scheme and new accessories notwithstanding, the Traverse SUP is still a Traverse at heart. It does get plenty of stylized additions, including a two-tone paint finish characterized by Blue Wave bodyside graphics that ensures that nobody’s going to mistake it for anything other than its intended purpose.

The concept is rich on is accessories, and it has a lot of them. Most of the pieces come from Chevrolet itself through its Chevrolet Accessories gig, and given the sheer quantity of pieces that are included in the Traverse, you might mistake the concept as a model that’s showcasing all these accessories altogether. From the blacked-out grille inserts to the bowtie emblems and the set of 20-inch wheels, there’s more than enough pieces on the Traverse SUP Concept from Chevrolet Accessories’ catalog. It’s worth noting too that some of the accessories on exhibit in the crossover can already be seen in other Chevy Traverse trims, sometimes as standard features. The smoked-out taillights, for example, are available on the Traverse Redline Edition while the LED headlights come standard on the Traverse High Country trim.

The most important piece, though, sits on top of the crossover’s roof. It’s called a Stand-Up Paddleboard Carrier, and it’s the biggest reason why the concept is what it is. That carrier is available through Chevrolet Accessories and is created by Thule. It’s the perfect rig to store a paddle board, as shown in this example with a Riviera Paddlesurf paddle board sitting on top of it.

Interior

The narrative is the same in the cabin of the Chevrolet Traverse. There are no over-the-top accessories to speak of, only accessories from Chevrolet. That’s not to say that these add-ons aren’t any good because they are, at least to the right customer. Traverse-embroidered headrests are probably the first ones to scream attention. Those are joined by illuminated front door sill plates, all-weather floor mats, a black cargo liner, assist steps, and a trailer hitch.

All together, these parts are miles away from being fancy, but they do serve their respective purpose, and some more so than others. Put them all together, and you get the cabin of the Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept. It’s not for everyone, but for those who like to spend their leisure time in the outdoors, these accessories should be able to serve them well.

Drivetrain

There are no hints of any engine upgrades in the Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept. It shouldn’t come as a surprise either given the overall purpose of the concept as a showcase of Chevrolet’s new parts and accessories bin. Be that as it may, the crossover still offers a choice of two engines, one of which is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. If you want a step up in power, the choice of a 3.6-liter V-6 powertrain is available. This engine set-up is good for 305 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of twist. No matter the choice, both versions are mated to the same Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic transmission, which in turn sends all that power to the two front wheels.

Conclusion

The Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept is what it is. There’s little about it that’s going to attract the attention of those who are allergic to the outdoors. But for those who do spend a fair amount of time outside, the Traverse SUP Concept provides a nice peek into what’s possible when the crossover gets some aggressive treatments to help it thrive in a beach setting. The paddle board and the paddle board rack are the unquestioned highlights here, but the rest of the accessories are also important in giving the concept it’s character. Take it for what it is, look at the accessories, and decide for yourselves if those pieces are worth putting into your own Traverse units. I like some parts of it, but for the most part, the concept doesn’t speak to me the way it will to those who are into the “hang ten” lifestyle.

References

Chevrolet Traverse

Read our full review on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.

Read more 2017 SEMA Show news.