Chevrolet first introduced its full-size crossover SUV, the Traverse, at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. The Traverse has been a popular choice in the segment since the 2009 model year was first released, and continues to be a favorite among drivers who require the space of an SUV, and the thrill of a crossover. Because the nameplate has been so popular, and because it is still fairly new to the market, used Chevy Traverse models are a great option for consumers interested in this particular segment.
The Traverse is positioned between the smaller Equinox and the larger Chevy Tahoe. Providing a sweet spot for drivers in both size and price, the Traverse has a starting MSRP well below $30,000, and offers over 115 cubic feet of interior cargo space. With less than eight years on the market, pre-owned Chevy Traverse crossovers are a great option for drivers looking to save money, without sacrificing quality.
Voted Best Family Vehicle for 2015
2015 was good year for the Chevrolet Traverse. While the crossover SUV did not receive major changes aside from a few Chevy MyLink infotainment updates, it did catch the eye of two very important publications.
Both Parents Magazine and Edmunds.com recognized the 2015 Traverse as one of the Best Family Cars of 2015. Such a designation is not handed out lightly, especially from such well-renowned sources in their respective industries. The 2015 Traverse earned its title as the Best Family Car of 2015 for many reasons. Offering just about as much interior cargo space as most minivans, and seating for up to eight passengers, no other vehicle in its class has more room for families on the go. In a market that is trending away from the minivan model, the recognition that the 2015 Chevy Traverse received as a family vehicle was monumental to its success.
Aside from the accolades it earned for being family friendly, the 2015 Traverse also was recognized with the highest overall vehicle score for safety by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This coveted honor not only gave the 2015 Traverse recognition within the automotive industry, but further solidified its standing as one of the most family friendly crossovers on the road.
The 2015 Traverse was first made available over two years ago, which means that there are plenty of used models available today. Because this model year of the Traverse is still relatively new, buyers can expect to pay upwards of $20,000 for a well-equipped version with average miles. Higher mileage vehicles with fewer bells and whistles may be available for well under $20,000, and still offer the interior passenger and cargo space that the Traverse is best known for.
Best 3-Row Family SUV for 2013
The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse was recognized by US News as being their Best 3-Row SUV for Families when it first came on the market. The same publication also recognized the 2013 Traverse as being one of the most affordable crossover SUVs in its segment, giving it even more authority in today’s used car market.
The 2013 Traverse also received many notable updates and changes that make it stand out from other model years. These changes included a standard rear view camera system, updated exterior and interior styling, and the first time the Chevy MyLink infotainment system was made available on the Traverse. Finding a used 2013 Chevy Traverse in good condition is very likely, and buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on the vehicle’s trim level and mileage.
Best Resale Value Award for 2012
Kelley Blue Book is one of the most respected names in the automotive industry. As experts in determining used car and resale values, Kelley Blue Book has been handing out recognition to well deserving models for nearly a decade. In 2012, the respected institution named the Chevy Traverse a Best Resale Value Award Winner. While some buyers in the used car market may see this as a negative, it means much more than simply a more expensive used car. New vehicles that hold their resale value are expected to outperform their initial expectations in both quality, value, and lifespan.
The Camaro V6, Volt, Camaro SS, and the Camaro all earned the 2012 Best Resale Value Award from Kelley Blue Book alongside the Traverse. These five awards made Chevrolet a top earner for 2012 recognition and accolades.
Because the 2012 Traverse held its value so well, drivers can expect to pay anywhere from $10,000, up to $20,000 for a used version from this particular model year. While this may seem high for a five-year-old vehicle, potential buyers should also take into account that these vehicles are expected to last longer, and be more dependable as they age.
Which Traverse is Right For You?
Whether you have a large family to accommodate, or simply require extra space for your favorite hobbies, the Chevy Traverse is a great vehicle option. With plenty of room for both cargo and passengers, a used Traverse can save you money, without having to sacrifice what is most important to you as a driver. The rear cargo area has more than enough room to store bikes, haul equipment, and even fit small personal water crafts.
With plenty of trim levels to choose from in each model year, the Traverse offers versatility in amenities, as well as the sticker price. Buying used can be a great way to load up on these extras, without having to break the bank. While every Chevy Traverse model year has been a successful one, we recommend checking out the three models outlined above, as they are the most awarded of any other model year.
Buying a pre-owned vehicle doesn’t have to be scary. If you do your research and stay informed and on top of industry trends, you can make a confident purchase decision you will be proud of for years to come. Check out local Chevrolet dealerships, and learn about the Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned program to further protect your used car purchase. Regardless of what model year you end up driving off the lot, the Chevy Traverse is a great used crossover SUV you can buy with confidence.
