Introduced for the 2018 model year, the second-generation Chevrolet Traverse is a significant departure from its predecessor, boasting a sportier look, state-of-the-art technology, and offering best-in-class maximum cargo room. The old 3.6-liter V-6 was also replaced with a brand-new unit, but Chevy also announced plans to fit a turbocharged four-cylinder in the SUV. The new engine was unveiled at the 2018 Chicago Motor Show in the Traverse RS, the first-ever Traverse to sport a turbocharged powerplant.
Alongside forced induction, this model also gets a few visual upgrades inside and out. It's pretty much the SUV version of the Sonic RS. It also gets quite a few extra standard features. It's not the fanciest trim available, but it's very similar to the Premier model in terms of equipment and price. You can always go with the High Country model if you're into a more luxurious cabin, but if you're looking for a sporty appearance, the new RS is the best choice you have. Let's see what set it apart in the review below.
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2018 Chevrolet Traverse RS
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- Model: 2018 Chevrolet Traverse RS
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What makes the Chevrolet Traverse RS special
While sportier trims usually come with revised bumpers with bigger, more aggressive intakes, the "RS" badge doesn't do much to alter the SUV's looks. However, the grille, the window trim, and roof rails are now black instead of chrome for a slightly sportier appearance. The "bowtie" logo on the front grille and tailgate are also black, just like on the Sonic RS. The trim also gained new 20-inch aluminum wheels finished in Dark Android, a high-gloss dark grey that goes well with the black trim. The package is rounded out by standard HID headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and upper and lower active aero shutter up front.
The cabin isn't that much different either, as the Jet Black leather seating surfaces are the only details that change compared to the lower trim. But while the design is pretty much the same, the RS model gets a ton of extra standard features, starting with heated front seats and a tri-zone automatic climate control system.
It also has standard Chevrolet MyLink with eight-inch touchscreen and navigation and OnStar 4G LTE. The Wi-Fi hotspot remains optional though. A digital instrument cluster display, Bose premium 10-speaker audio system, the power liftgate, and the keyless entry and remote start round off the standard premium package. In terms of driver assist features, the Traverse RS includes Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Park Assist, Surround Vision, Rear Camera Mirror, Rear Seat Reminder, and Teen Driver.
Of course, the big news lies under the hood, where the potent 3.6-liter V-6 was replaced by a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit. The Ecotec mill is rated at 257 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. That's a 50 horsepower less than the naturally aspirated V-6, but no less than 35 extra pound-feet of torque. The four-banger mates to a nine-speed automatic transmission and benefits from 90 percent of its torque from as low as 2,100 rpm. On top of having more torque, the Ecotec engine is also more fuel efficient than the V-6. While the 3.6-liter unit returns 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, the RS is rated at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The Traverse RS is priced from $43,095, which places it just above the LT Leather model, priced from $42,695, and just below the Premier, which retails for $45,995.
References
Chevrolet Traverse
Read our full review on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.
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