2027 Chevrolet Traverse: Is the ‘Baby Tahoe’ Still the King of Family SUVs? Pricing & Specs

2027 Chevrolet Traverse: The New Benchmark for American Family Haulers

For decades, the Chevrolet Traverse has been the go-to choice for families who need Tahoe-level space without the truck-based fuel economy penalties. As we move into the 2027 model year, Chevrolet has doubled down on the ‘Baby Tahoe’ aesthetic, blending rugged off-road capability with a tech-heavy interior that puts most luxury SUVs to shame. Starting at an estimated $41,500, the 2027 Traverse aims to dominate the mid-size three-row segment.

While the 2024 redesign set the foundation, the 2027 model introduces refined software for its massive displays, expanded availability of Super Cruise, and a more aggressive Z71 trim that actually walks the walk. In this comprehensive review, we dive into why the Traverse remains a powerhouse in a field crowded by the Kia Telluride and Ford Explorer.

The Bold ‘Baby Tahoe’ Design and Street Presence

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse continues to lean into its boxy, muscular silhouette. Gone are the minivan-adjacent curves of the first two generations. Instead, we have a high hood line, a massive upright grille, and sleek LED lighting signatures that mirror the Silverado and Tahoe. The Z71 trim remains the visual standout, featuring a wider track, aluminum skid plates, and distinctive red tow hooks that signal it’s ready for more than just a grocery run.

Aerodynamics and Exterior Refinements

Despite its brick-like appearance, Chevrolet engineers have worked extensively on underbody aero to keep cabin noise low. The RS trim offers a more ‘street-smart’ look with 22-inch high-gloss black wheels and blacked-out badging, catering to the suburban buyer who wants a hint of sportiness.

Performance: The End of the V6 Era

The biggest conversation starter for the 2027 model remains the powertrain. Chevrolet has officially moved on from the naturally aspirated V6. Every 2027 Traverse is powered by a high-output 2.5L Turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

While some purists miss the sound of the V6, the numbers don’t lie: this engine produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This is a significant jump in torque over the old 3.6L engine, making merging on highways and towing (up to 5,000 lbs) feel much more effortless. The 8-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated for 2027 to address low-speed jerkiness reported by owners in previous years.

Technical Specifications Table

Feature	2027 Traverse Specification
Engine	2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4
Horsepower	328 hp
Torque	326 lb-ft
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain	FWD Standard / AWD Available (Twin-Clutch on Z71)
Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs
Fuel Economy (Est)	20 City / 27 Hwy (FWD)
Infotainment	17.7-inch Color Touchscreen

Interior Tech: The Giant Screen Experience

Step inside, and you are immediately greeted by a class-leading 17.7-inch infotainment screen paired with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster. Unlike some competitors that feel cluttered, the Traverse’s Google-based interface is crisp and intuitive. However, a major point of discussion in forums is the lack of a traditional physical volume knob in some configurations—though Chevy has kept physical toggles for essential climate controls.

Seating and Cargo Space

The Traverse continues to be a class leader in ‘useable’ space. Unlike the Highlander or Explorer, the third row in the Traverse can actually fit three adults for shorter trips. With the second and third rows folded, you get a cavernous 98 cubic feet of cargo space, effectively turning the SUV into a small van when needed.

The Expansion of Super Cruise

For 2027, Chevrolet has made Super Cruise—their hands-free driving technology—available on more trims. It now works on over 400,000 miles of highways across North America, including trailering capabilities, making those long family road trips significantly less taxing.

Safety Ratings and NCAP Performance

While the official 2027 IIHS and NHTSA ratings are pending, the Traverse is built on a reinforced platform that earned top marks in 2025/2026 testing. Standard safety tech includes:

• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Keep Assist with Departure Warning
• Blind Zone Steering Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Braking

Comparison: 2027 Traverse vs. The Competition

Metric	2027 Chevy Traverse	2027 Kia Telluride	2027 Ford Explorer
Base HP	328 hp	291 hp	300 hp
Standard Screen	17.7-inch	12.3-inch	13.2-inch
Max Cargo Space	98 cu. ft.	87 cu. ft.	85.8 cu. ft.
AWD System	Twin-Clutch (Z71)	Standard AWD	Rear-Biased AWD
Starting Price	$41,500 (Est)	$38,000 (Est)	$42,000 (Est)

Variant-Wise Pricing (Ex-Showroom Est.)

Trim Level	Estimated Price (USD)	Key Features
LS (Base)	$41,500	17.7-inch screen, 8-passenger seating
LT	$44,200	Roof rails, power driver seat, 7-passenger option
Z71 (Off-Road)	$50,500	1-inch lift, All-terrain tires, Twin-clutch AWD
RS (Sport)	$57,800	22-inch wheels, Bose audio, Super Cruise standard

People Also Ask (FAQ)

1. Does the 2027 Chevy Traverse have a V6 engine? No, it uses a 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine across all trims.
2. What is the towing capacity of the 2027 Traverse? It is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
3. Does it have Apple CarPlay? No, Chevy has transitioned to a Google Built-in system, though Bluetooth connectivity remains.
4. Is there a Hybrid Traverse for 2027? No hybrid has been officially announced, which remains a major point of criticism from users.
5. How many passengers can the 2027 Traverse seat? Up to 8 in the LS/LT trims, or 7 with second-row captain’s chairs.
6. Is Super Cruise standard? It is standard on the RS and available as an option on the LT and Z71.
7. How does the Z71 differ from the LT? The Z71 adds off-road suspension, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a specialized AWD system.
8. What are the main complaints about the 2027 Traverse? Users often cite the lack of a hybrid option and the removal of physical buttons for some infotainment functions.
9. Is the 2027 Traverse AWD? FWD is standard; AWD is available on all trims and standard on the Z71.
10. Where is the 2027 Traverse built? It is manufactured at the Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant in Michigan.

Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse is the ultimate ‘Goldilocks’ SUV. It offers more space than the Kia Telluride and more modern tech than the Ford Explorer. If you need a vehicle that can haul a large family and their gear in absolute comfort while looking like a premium truck, the Traverse is hard to beat.

Pros

• Massive cargo and passenger space
• Class-leading 17.7-inch touchscreen
• Torquey 2.5L Turbo engine
• Excellent Super Cruise integration

Cons

• No Hybrid or EV option (High fuel costs)
• Lack of physical infotainment knobs
• Prices for top trims can exceed $60,000