2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE | 1GNEVKKW8JJ216251

Body Styles

The 2018–2023 Chevrolet Traverse was a full-size crossover SUV with a long, wide stance and sleek profile that masked its generous interior space. With three standard rows of seating, the body featured a clean, contemporary silhouette with sculpted sides, a tapered roofline, and a subtle rear spoiler. The design emphasized horizontal lines and a bold front grille that varied by trim, enhancing visual width and presence. Despite its size, the unibody platform gave the Traverse sedan-like refinement and accessible step-in height, while its long wheelbase ensured abundant legroom for passengers in all three rows and ample cargo capacity even with all seats in use.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

Chevrolet selected the name “Traverse” to communicate the vehicle’s ability to cover long distances with ease. The word suggests movement across land — a nod to the SUV’s capability to transport families or groups comfortably through diverse conditions and terrains, making it a versatile alternative to traditional minivans or truck-based SUVs.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

Linguistically, the word “traverse” comes from Latin transversus, meaning “turned across.” In English, it retains the meaning of “crossing or traveling across,” often associated with exploration and journeying. The name evokes a sense of purposeful motion and capability, subtly reinforcing the idea of spaciousness, endurance, and long-range usability. It’s straightforward yet aspirational, aligning well with the vehicle’s function.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The Chevrolet Traverse featured an upscale and evolving color range including Summit White, Mosaic Black Metallic, Graphite Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, and Cherry Red Tintcoat. More expressive hues such as Black Cherry Metallic and Northsky Blue were available on higher trims, while RS models received unique darkened accents, including black roof rails and mirror caps. The High Country trim introduced exclusive tones like Iridescent Pearl and offered extra chrome detailing around the body, enhancing its premium appeal.

Interior options included Jet Black, Jet Black/Loft Brown, and Jet Black/Maple Sugar combinations, depending on trim. Entry-level models offered high-durability cloth upholstery with subtle textures, while LT Leather and Premier trims featured perforated leather with contrast stitching and optional heated/ventilated seating. The High Country included premium touches such as embroidered logos, dual-pane sunroof controls integrated into the headliner, and genuine-looking woodgrain trim inserts. Cabin aesthetics were clean and intuitive, designed for long-distance comfort and passenger flexibility.

Wheel designs ranged from basic 18-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels on entry trims to 20-inch polished alloys on the RS and High Country models. The RS trim featured exclusive dark-finish wheels with gloss black accents, while Premier models added machine-faced aluminum with contrast pockets. Across the lineup, wheel finishes and patterns were updated subtly with mid-cycle refreshes, reinforcing the trim hierarchy while preserving the Traverse’s elegant, family-oriented proportions.

Top Expensive Options

• Dual SkyScape Sunroof: $1,500
• Adaptive Cruise Control Package: $1,200
• Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium with Navigation: $1,400
• Rear-Seat Entertainment System: $1,200
• Bose Premium 10-Speaker Audio System: $1,000
• Power-Folding Third Row Seats: $800
• HD Surround Vision and Rear Camera Mirror: $1,100
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats: $1,000
• 20-inch Polished Aluminum Wheels: $1,300
• Trailering Package with Heavy-Duty Cooling: $650

vs Competitors

The Chevrolet Traverse consistently positioned itself between mainstream midsize SUVs and larger truck-based utility vehicles. Against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer, the Traverse offered one of the most spacious third-row and cargo areas in the segment. Its V6 engine provided more power than many turbocharged four-cylinder competitors, and its smooth-shifting 9-speed transmission improved drivability and fuel economy. While it lacked the rugged off-road appeal of the Explorer Timberline or the hybrid powertrain of the Highlander, it countered with refined road manners, excellent infotainment integration, and class-leading interior space. Compared to luxury-brand alternatives like the Acura MDX or Buick Enclave, the Traverse delivered a near-premium experience at a more accessible price point, especially in Premier and High Country trims. Its balance of size, technology, and driving ease made it a standout in long-distance family comfort.

Fun Fact

In 2020, the Chevrolet Traverse became one of the top-selling three-row SUVs in North America, surpassing even long-established competitors in monthly sales thanks to its spacious interior and strong value proposition. Its popularity with rental fleets and large families alike solidified its reputation as one of the most comfortable road-tripping vehicles in its class — often dubbed a “minivan in disguise” with SUV styling.