The Chevrolet Traverse I, equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 281 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant entry by Chevrolet into the burgeoning crossover SUV market. Produced from 2009 to 2012, this variant occupied a key position in the Traverse lineup, offering a balance of space, power, and relative affordability within the broader range of engine and trim options. The Traverse I, built on the GM Theta Premium platform (shared with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook), was designed to address the growing demand for three-row SUVs capable of comfortably transporting families and their cargo.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Traverse |
| Generation | Traverse I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (281 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 281 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 361 Nm @ 3600 rpm (266.26 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6950 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LLT |
| Engine displacement | 3564 cm3 (217.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.6 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2141 kg (4720.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2930 kg (6459.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 789 kg (1739.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 691 l (24.4 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3296 l (116.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83.3 l (22.01 US gal | 18.32 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2358 kg (5198.5 lbs.) |
| Length | 5206 mm (204.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3019 mm (118.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1721 mm (67.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1711 mm (67.36 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183 mm (7.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic T75 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 331 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 255/65 R18; 255/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Traverse variant lies the GM LLT 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring an aluminum cylinder block and heads. It utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The LLT engine employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission offering for this configuration. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and relatively quick response, though it isn’t as sporty as some other six-speed automatics of the era. The 6T75 features electronically controlled shift points and adaptive learning capabilities to optimize shift quality based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 281-horsepower, front-wheel-drive Traverse I with the 6T75 automatic delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically takes around 8-9 seconds. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and fuel economy, resulting in relatively conservative shift points. Compared to the available 220-horsepower 2.8-liter four-cylinder engine, the V6 offers a substantial power increase, making highway merging and passing maneuvers much easier. However, it doesn’t match the quicker acceleration of the optional all-wheel-drive configuration. The gear ratios in the 6T75 are optimized for cruising, providing a relaxed driving experience on the highway. The front-wheel-drive setup contributes to slightly better fuel economy compared to the AWD models, but it also limits traction in inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 Automatic Traverse typically came standard with features such as tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, power windows and locks, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, sunroof, and upgraded alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather becoming standard on the LTZ trim. Dashboard configurations were consistent across all trims, featuring a user-friendly layout with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Traverse I utilizes an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 325mm, while rear brakes are also ventilated discs at 331mm. All trims equipped with the V6 engine included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS). Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear, helping to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively heavy curb weight of the Traverse (around 4720 lbs) necessitates the larger brakes and robust suspension components.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Traverse I was generally well-received by critics as a practical and spacious family SUV. The 3.6-liter V6 Automatic combination was praised for its smooth ride and ample power, although some reviewers noted that the fuel economy wasn’t class-leading. Compared to the four-cylinder version, the V6 offered a significant performance advantage, justifying the higher price. The Traverse competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander. While the Traverse offered more interior space than some of its competitors, its fuel economy was often slightly lower.
Legacy
The LLT 3.6-liter V6 engine and 6T75 transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and sensor failures, but these are generally not major concerns. The Traverse I, particularly the V6 models, hold reasonable value in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious and affordable family SUV. The platform’s longevity and the engine’s durability contribute to its continued popularity among used car shoppers. While newer generations of the Traverse offer improved fuel economy and technology, the first-generation model remains a viable option for those prioritizing space and value.
