The original Chevrolet Traverse, although classified as a crossover, helped GM court the minivan crowd with a little more style. That ethos absolutely carried on when designing the second-generation 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.
Rick Spina, GM chief engineer for crossovers, brought the 2018 Traverse to Autoline for an in-depth discussion on the vehicle and provided some context on how the team identified trends that shaped the final product.
From a design perspective, the goal was to emulate a truckier design, but increase functionality for families. Again, minivan amenities with a more stylish package. Spina also says engineers also ensured every passenger has a “space” in the 2018 Traverse. Phone charging ports, cup holders and storage were paramount.
He also talks about how he works to differentiate every GM crossover when so many share essential components, platforms and engines. The Traverse’s extended C1 platform also underpins the 2018 Buick Enclave. The C1 platform itself underpins the Cadillac XT5 and GMC Acadia. Soon, the new Chevrolet Blazer will share the C1 platform, too.
It’s a great discussion for those seeking the finer details on the crossover, so press play above and start learning.
Comments
I still would never drive a CUV, but if a had too, it would be the Traverse. Good looking vehicle for sure.
Well, here is what I learned from the discussion with the engineer:
Mr. Spina clearly stated there is no hybrid on table but pretty much admits there is a diesel coming. (GM’s diesels are on par with hybrids for fuel economy).
There won’t be an off-road CUV/SUVs. There will be Sports CUV/SUVs. Off-road capability will be done thru body on frame trucks. Colorado/Silverado.
I recently drove a new Traverse and was impressed with its road manners, quietness, interior design, and powertrain, which are all improved from the 2014 Traverse that is my wife’s daily driver. I especially appreciated the greater acceleration and low end torque feel compared with ours. We will have kids at home long enough to trade for one in a few years. I also like the styling.
Having to pick a vehicle because you have kids really does suck in my opinion! We spend so much money to pamper our children today. We forgot who’s paying the bills, parents are always having to settle for kid cars!
Hey Brian, While your at it tell those kids to get off your lawn too. Maybe its easier for the parents to drive the CUV with kids, groceries, sports gear etc.
See it use to be that kids were to be seen and not heard. Now kids tell the parents what to Do!
I have a Acadia 2013 slt and it was a nice SUV I change for a pickup but the 2107 Acadia front grill is ugly so maybe my next one be the Chevy ,travers 🙂
I just want to know why they put hard plastic panels on the dash top and door tops, took away the power folding side mirrors plus the 8 way passenger seat also seat belt height adjust and head restraint back/forth adjust, thou they made great improvements they also took many already good things away. But those cheap plastic bits are hard to justify the higher prices .