The 2019 Chevy Traverse represents a significant moment for GM's three-row crossover, arriving as a mature product with a proven platform and a clear identity. By this point in its lifecycle, the Traverse had shed its awkward adolescence, establishing itself as a practical and comfortable choice for families who need genuine space without resorting to a minivan. This review examines how the 2019 model year performs, balancing its refined dynamics against the backdrop of modern safety expectations and interior versatility.
Design and Exterior Presence
Visually, the 2019 Traverse sits confidently between the Trax and the larger Tahoe, adopting the aggressive front-end language introduced a few years prior. The bow-tie grille is flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the vehicle a wide, alert appearance, while the sculpted hood and wheel arches suggest capability rather than just style. The redesign was crucial, moving away from the softer lines of the first generation to a more athletic and contemporary silhouette that remains competitive today.
Interior Space and Comfort
Where the Traverse truly shines is in its cabin, which is engineered to maximize every available inch. The standard third-row seating is a rarity in this class, easily accommodating two small adults or children, transforming the vehicle from a five-seater to a genuine 7-passenger hauler without sacrificing headroom for the first and second rows. The seat materials, while not luxurious, are durable and easy to clean, a practical choice for a family hauler that anticipates real-world use with crumbs and muddy boots.
Technology and Infotainment
The interior tech package is a highlight, featuring the available Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a large 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen. This interface is responsive and logically organized, providing clear navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration right out of the gate. In the 2019 model year, Chevrolet also introduced wireless charging capabilities, a small but significant convenience that keeps the cabin looking tidy and reduces cable clutter for front-row passengers.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Traverse relies on a refined 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is the heart of the vehicle, delivering confident acceleration for highway merging and passing while maintaining composed efficiency for daily commutes. The chassis handles with surprising stability, absorbing road imperfections without feeling unsettled, and the available Magnetic Ride Control further enhances the balance between comfort and engagement.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a cornerstone of the Traverse's value proposition, and the 2019 model year earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, a testament to its robust construction and advanced suite of active protections. Standard safety features include a forward collision alert system with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a reliable rearview camera. These systems work cohesively to mitigate low-speed collisions and keep the vehicle aligned with minimal driver fatigue on long journeys.
Fuel Economy and Practicality
While not class-leading, the Traverse's fuel economy is reasonable for its size, with the V6 achieving an EPA-estimated 18 city / 27 highway MPG. This translates to fewer stops at the pump on road trips, a significant factor for families planning long-distance travel. The practicality extends to the cargo area, where the rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split, creating a cavernous space capable of swallowing large furniture pieces or camping gear with ease.
