Chevy's rationale makes sense: Soccer moms across the country are about to turn in their leased Trailblazers and Yukons. They've seen budgets battered by gas prices, but they still have to have something that can tote the brood around. With 7 or 8 passenger seating, a tall ride height, generous cargo room, and a fairly low load floor, the Traverse attempts to give them a reason to drive back out of the Chevy dealership in something new — something new that isn't a minivan. Chevy needs the Traverse pretty badly, considering they don't have squat between Malibu and Trailblazer.

Although Traverse sits on the same Lambda platform upon which the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave ride, and it's arguably the least successful styling exercise of the four, perhaps due to the fact Chevy wasn't initially slated to get a Lambda vehicle — it looks hurried. The exterior stylists described their goal as creating a crossover with broad, global appeal. Translated, that means, "we tried to please everyone." As is typically the case when you set out to offend no one, you end up exciting no one. That's definitely the case here. Traverse looks as long as a school bus, and the front end comes off as heavy, with a cow-catcher sized air dam begging to scrape the nearest curb.

Inside, Traverse mimics Chevy's successful Malibu with a sweeping dual-cove theme for the dash and materials featuring good texture and a solid feel. Available SmartSlide seating for the middle row causes the captain's chairs to glide forward with the pull of a lever, allowing good access to the surprisingly comfortable third row seats. But the lack of a sliding side door means piling tweeners in and out without bashing into the cars beside you will never be as easy as it is with a van.

On the road course GM set out for us, Traverse displays the good manners we've come to expect from the Lambda platform. It has decent acceleration for its size, good isolation from road, wind, and engine noise, and corners pretty flatly give the size and weight. The stability control system does an admirable job of avoiding cones in wet and dry conditions, and it handles Michigan-style bumps and potholes with aplomb. But, since GM is touting the Chevy's towing ability (5,800 lbs.), it was surprising to feel how much the Traverse was affected while pulling a 4,000-lb boat/trailer combo. The tail felt unstable at moderate speeds, and there was never any doubt about the chunk of weight on the aft end.

So where does this leave the Chevy Traverse? Chances are it'll sell well, considering there are still folks out there who won't drive anything but a Chevy, and the fact the Traverse is light-years better than the Uplander and Trailblazer. Chevy's pricing is going to be key: If it's in the same ballpark as the Outlook, we'd guess GM aficionados will be rethinking Saturn or upgrading to an Acadia. Most of the other buyers will be across town scoping out the Ford Flex.

Press Release:

Chevrolet Announces the All-New 2009 Traverse

New Crossover Features Bold Styling, Sophisticated Details and
Best-in-Class Fuel Economy from a Direct-Injected 3.6L V-6

CHICAGO - Introduced at the Chicago Auto Show, the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is an expressively styled, well-equipped crossover that gives customers people-hauling and cargo-carrying capability typically found in larger SUVs.

With styling cues inspired by the acclaimed '08 Chevy Malibu, the Traverse delivers refined details with strong proportions and the bold front-end appearance found on all new Chevrolets. Traverse will start production in the third quarter of 2008 at GM's Spring Hill, Tenn. manufacturing facility.

"We think the Traverse is the right vehicle at the right time," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "It has great looks, utility and safety, with a driving experience typically found in smaller vehicles. But it delivers this with three rows of seating - including a third row that fits adults - and class-leading cargo space. The Traverse is following the formula that is bringing Chevy back to a new generation of consumers - great styling, loads of class-leading features and tremendous value."

The '09 Traverse is offered in LS, LT and LTZ models, in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Product highlights include:

* Distinctive design that highlights the new face of Chevrolet
* Optimized aerodynamics that enhance fuel economy and reduce wind noise
* Four-wheel independent suspension system
* StabiliTrak electronic stability control system
* Family of 17-, 18- and 20-inch wheels
* Second-row Smart Slide seat feature, for easy access to the third-row seats
* Rear-seat entertainment system with second-row controls
* Six standard air bags, including side curtain air bags that deploy over all three seating rows
* OnStar with Turn by Turn Navigation and Direction Download (with navigation system)
* XM Satellite Radio with XM NavTraffic, a real-time traffic feature (with navigation system)
* Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
* Cruising range of more than 500 miles (800 km)
* Exceptional attention to detail and strong build quality

Sleek, sophisticated design

The Traverse casts a unique profile with a sleek, smooth and flowing design that characterizes the new, global face of Chevrolet. Elements such as chrome-ringed grille inserts, available projector-beam headlamps and large wheel-and-tire combinations highlight the vehicle's finely honed attention to detail.

Taut body lines and minimal overhangs convey the image of a smaller vehicle, reinforcing the Traverse's feeling of a large vehicle that drives smaller, while tight tolerances between body components - enhanced by the vehicle's unitized body structure, which enables wraparound, single-piece fascias - emphasize a highly precise build quality.

"The Traverse delivers a design that is unexpected from Chevrolet," said Michael Burton, director of design for the exterior. "Many of the details are typical on higher-priced vehicles, but the Traverse brings them to a level that is accessible to more customers."

Some of the upscale design details include:

* Deep-set grille inserts with chrome-ringed trim
* Turn signals integrated in the outside mirrors
* Expressive taillamps
* Rear spoiler integrated over the tailgate window
* Roof rails designed to enhance the sleek appearance when a roof rack is not in place
* 20-inch Ultra-Bright aluminum wheels (standard on LTZ models)
* Dual, bright exhaust outlets
* Panoramic, power-operated sunroof

"The headlamps, for example, are more than merely projector beam units; they are integrated in stylized housings that are rich and detailed, reinforcing the high-tech features found throughout the Traverse," said Burton.

Like the exterior, the Traverse's interior is a confluence of refined styling, technology and attention to detail. The instrument panel has a dual-cockpit design that is a hallmark of Chevrolet's heritage; it flows into the door panels, creating a sleek, highly detailed appearance. The instrument panel is mounted in a "low and away" position that enhances outward visibility.

The instrument panel houses a pair of large gauge binnacles that are accented with bright trim rings; and for so-equipped vehicles, the available navigation system screen is integrated prominently at the upper-center of the instrument panel.

The Traverse's interior can be configured for seven or eight adults, including two front bucket seats, a 60/40-split second-row bench (three passengers) or two second-row captain's chairs (two passengers) and a 60/40-split third-row bench seat. Perforated leather seats and second-row captain's chairs are available. The third-row seat is capable of comfortably seating adults while simultaneously providing best-in-class storage space behind it.

Great amenities

Complementing the Traverse's exterior and interior designs is a comprehensive roster of standard and available amenities that enhances the driving experience for the driver and passengers alike. They include:

* Rear ultrasonic parking assist
* Rear-view camera
* Outside mirrors with spotter mirrors
* Power liftgate
* Extended-range remote vehicle start
* Heated windshield fluid
* DVD entertainment system
* DVD navigation system (with OnStar Destination Download and XM traffic routing)
* Heated and cooled front seats
* XM Satellite Radio with XM NavTrafic, a real-time traffic feature
* Heated, power-adjustable outside mirrors with blind-spot mirrors
* Power folding outside mirrors with integrated turn signals
* OnStar (with one year of Directions & Connections service) with Turn by Turn Navigation and, with the navigation system, Direction Download.

GM's Five-Year/100,000 Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty continues to make GM a better choice for customers. GM's coverage focuses on the complete ownership experience and includes other provisions that competitors do not offer, including transferability to the next owner, more complete coverage of parts, and coverage for new and certified used vehicles. In addition, GM offers complementary programs such as courtesy transportation and roadside assistance.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse, with Enhanced Powertrain, Delivers Efficient, Responsibe and Safe Driving Experience

CHICAGO - The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse delivers a robust and satisfying combination of power, efficiency, ride and safety. The driving experience is supported by a sophisticated, 3.6L DOHC V-6 that features variable valve timing and gasoline direct-injection technology. It is designed to provide excellent power and efficiency that translates to usable, power-on-demand performance and what is expected to be the best highway fuel economy in the segment.

The engine is backed by a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission that channels power to a responsive, four-wheel independent suspension.

"Traverse delivers a win-win for customers: It is expected to have the best fuel economy in the segment, along with the most power," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "With its great looks and excellent driving characteristics, it's a vehicle that customers will love to drive."

Great power and fuel economy

The 3.6L engine's direct-injection technology helps produce power similar to many V-8 engines and uses regular unleaded gasoline. The Traverse is rated at an estimated 286 horsepower (213 kW)* and 255 lb.-ft. of torque (345 Nm)* with dual exhaust (281 hp/210 kW* and 253 lb.-ft./343 Nm* with single exhaust) - but delivers better-than-expected fuel economy. Ninety percent of the engine's peak torque is available from approximately 2,500 rpm to more than 6,000 rpm.

With direct injection, fuel is sprayed directly into the engine cylinder, where it is mixed with air. As the fuel vaporizes in the cylinder, the air and fuel mixture is cooled. This enables the use of a higher compression ratio in the combustion chamber, which improves engine performance and efficiency. Less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower - particularly at normal cruising speeds - of a conventional, port-injection system. Also, the use of unique pistons with the direct-injection system helps reduce cold-start emissions by 25 percent.

Advanced, high-pressure fuel injectors are used to reduce noise and comprise only one of numerous underhood features designed to minimize or eliminate noise, vibration and harshness. Other elements include an acoustically tuned engine cover and intake manifold and center-feed fuel lines. Also, a new engine mount system reduces vibration at idle.

The 3.6L engine is mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission, an advanced transmission with clutch-to-clutch shift operation for front- and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The transmission's six-gear configuration allows for a "steep" 4.48:1 first gear, which helps deliver exceptional launch feel, and a 0.74:1 overdrive sixth gear - the "tall" overdrive gear lowers rpm at high speeds, reducing noise and vibration. Also, the 6T75 offers automatic grade braking, shift stabilization and precise shift control.

The available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides increased traction on slippery roads by actively managing the torque distribution between the front and rear axles, based on factors such as wheel speed, throttle and surface conditions. There is no driver intervention; the system automatically decides how much torque to apply and delivers it to the wheels that have the best traction.

Robust chassis, responsive suspension

Traverse rides on a long 118.9-inch (3,019 mm) wheelbase, with a wide 67.8-inch (1,721 mm) front track and 67.4-inch (1,712 mm) rear track - a combination that lowers the center of gravity and enables smooth, stable ride and handling. Sharp reflexes are also supported by independent front and rear suspensions. The front suspension features a MacPherson strut design, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar and aluminum knuckles. Isolated mounting points help reduce noise and vibration.

The rear suspension uses a compact, state-of-the-art linked "H" design, which uses an isolated mounting system to reduce noise and vibration transmitted to the passenger compartment. This design enables the handling prowess that comes with an independent suspension, but with minimal floor pan intrusion - a feature that helps the Traverse offer generous passenger and cargo space.

Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is standard, with variable-effort steering available. The suspension and steering systems meet the road via 17-, 18- or 20-inch wheels, depending on the model, while four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on all models.

Additional standard electronic braking features include Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP), Hydraulic Brake Boost (HBB) and Panic Brake Assist (PBA). DRP optimizes front to rear brake balance by dynamically adjusting the rear brake bias based on driving conditions and vehicle loading. HBB amplifies the hydraulic brake force to assist the driver under low or temporarily low engine vacuum conditions to reduce stopping distance. PBA optimizes stopping by adding or maintaining brake pressure even if the driver unconsciously or involuntarily backs off braking during a panic or emergency situation.

Also standard are several features that enhance ride and handling, as well as safety:

* StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology

* Traction control system
* Tire pressure monitoring system

Comprehensive safety

The Traverse has 360-degree safety system that helps protect passengers before, during and after a crash, including new anchor pretensioners for outboard occupants and pelvic-thorax seat-mounted side air bags.

A strong structure is the foundation, and it is augmented by a wide stance and low center of gravity that reduce the likelihood of a rollover. Traverse's responsive four-wheel independent suspension also enhances safety by providing stable ride and handling characteristics.

The Traverse's structure is reinforced in numerous areas with high-strength steel, including a stiff steel cross-car beam welded across the floor between the B-pillars. It also uses dual-phase steel in select areas, such as the lower engine compartment rails. Dual-phase steel is strengthened in the paint oven and offers easier formability, reduced mass, greater strength and better crash energy absorption than most high-strength steels.

Traverse is equipped with six standard air bags: two dual-stage frontal air bags, for the driver and front passenger, two seat-mounted pelvic-thorax side-impact air bags in the first row, which provide improved occupant coverage when compared against previous thorax side air bags, and two head curtain side-impact air bags that cover all three seating rows. The head curtain side air bags are among the longest air bags in any production vehicle.

Complementing the air bags is GM's rollover sensing system, which can pre-emptively activate the side-impact air bags if sensors determine a rollover is imminent. In the event of a rollover, the air bags stay inflated longer to provide increased occupant containment. Dual front-seat safety belt pretensioners (anchor and retractor) also are part of the Traverse's standard safety equipment.

The Traverse comes standard with OnStar Generation 7 (with a one-year Directions & Connections plan), which features Turn by Turn Navigation and the Advanced Automatic Crash Notification system. If the crash activates an air bag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who immediately calls the vehicle and/or summons emergency help.

Also, on vehicles equipped with the available navigation system, the OnStar package includes OnStar Direction Download. With it, the customer can call OnStar with an address and the advisor will send the information directly to the navigation system, proving quick, hands-free guidance.

*Preliminary, pending SAE certification.

Although we don't know if the name is carved in stone, Chevrolet's Lambda-platform-based crossover is making its first unofficial appearance on - of all places - the Las Vegas Strip!

Adding to the Lambda family - the Buick Enclave, Saturn's Outlook and the GMC Acadia, will be this Chevrolet. But unlike the others - this one will be built in Spring Hill, Tennessee (at what was - at one time - a Saturn-only plant).

Codename GMT 561, this Chevrolet crossover will likely begin production in August of 2008 - making this a 2009 model. Based on those dates - we're expecting to see an Auto Show debut at either the 2008 NAIAS, or possibly even Chicago - as Chicago tends to preview many SUVs and trucks. Looking through the camouflage, it looks like this all-new Chevrolet entry might even be carrying over some styling cues from the new Malibu!