The 2000 Chevrolet Traverse concept was a fresh take on the family sedan that attempted to combine the best attributes of pickup trucks, minivans, and sedans into a single package, blurring the distinction between those models.
Quick Facts
| Engine | V6 |
| Aspiration | Atmospheric |
| Displacement (cc / cu. in) | 4500 / 274.6 |
| Power (kw / bhp) | 190.2 / 255.1 |
| Drive Wheels | AWD |
| Wheelbase (mm / in) | 3048 / 120.0 |
| Front track (mm / in) | 1608 / 63.3 |
| Rear track (mm / in) | 1608 / 63.3 |
| Length (mm / in) | 4775 / 188.0 |
| Width (mm / in) | 1829 / 72.0 |
| Height (mm / in) | 1664 / 65.5 |
Positioning
By combining the utility, AWD capability, towing capacity and seat positioning of a pickup with the comfort, power, agility, and styling of a sedan, the Traverse concept aimed to provide a unique and innovative driving experience that was designed with the modern family in mind. To that end, the concept was intended to be extremely versatile and technologically advance.
Exterior
The exterior design of the Traverse concept seems to be similar to that of the sixth-generation Chevrolet Malibu Maxx, which is to say unconventional. The upright seating position gives the driver and passengers a clear view of the road ahead, while the unusual rear end appears to operate in hatchback-like fashion, allowing for convenient use of the cargo area. Interestingly, the 2001 Chevrolet Trailblazer also seems to draw inspiration from the concept.
It’s worth noting that the sixth-gen Malibu didn’t debut until the 2004 model year.
Interior
The 2000 Chevrolet Traverse concept was designed to accommodate up to five passengers at a time, while the cabin was adorned in a light brown finish.
Technology
Perhaps the biggest standout feature of the Traverse concept was its personal computer. Mounted in the instrument panel, the Compaq C-Series 2010C featured a keyboard and could be docked within the instrument panel when not in use, thus concealing it from view. Measuring in at less than 10-inches in length and roughly four-inches in width, the docking station allowed the computer to be easily removed for portable use.
Beyond that, the concept also boasted wireless connectively by harboring a wireless modem, as well as a hidden antenna located beneath the windshield. This allowed the vehicle to access the Internet, which enabled passengers to utilize online services.
Powertrain
The 2000 Chevrolet Traverse concept was powered by a naturally aspirated 4.5L V6 gasoline engine that developed 255 horsepower. This powerplant was mated to the GM four-speed automatic transmission and drove all four wheels through an AWD system.
Platform
The Traverse concept was based on the GMT325 platform shared with the Chevrolet S10, thereby making it a body-on-frame model.
Name
The concept was the first to utilize the Traverse name, which was eventually applied to the production-spec Traverse crossover SUV for the 2009 model year.
Unveiling
The Chevrolet Traverse concept was unveiled at the 2000 Chicago Auto Show.
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