The Chevrolet Traverse III, introduced for the 2024 model year, represents the third generation of Chevrolet’s large crossover SUV. Positioned as a family-focused vehicle, the Traverse III offers three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. The 2.5 Turbo AWD Automatic variant, equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower, sits at the top of the Traverse lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and modern technology. It builds upon the foundation of the GM C1 platform, shared with other GM SUVs like the Buick Enclave and Cadillac XT6.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Traverse |
| Generation | Traverse III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 Turbo (328 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 328 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 131.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 442 Nm @ 3500 rpm (326 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | LK0 |
| Engine displacement | 2494 cm3 (152.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102.5 mm (4.04 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.9 l (17.86 US qt | 14.87 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2174 kg (4792.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2763 l (97.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82.1 l (21.69 US gal | 18.06 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2267 kg (4997.88 lbs.) |
| Length | 5194 mm (204.49 in.) |
| Width | 2021 mm (79.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2232 mm (87.87 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3072 mm (120.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1703 mm (67.05 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9-12.4 m (39.04 – 40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven by clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc, 321×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 315×23 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/65 R18; 255/55 R20; 275/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Traverse 2.5 Turbo is the LK0 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and is coupled with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to deliver 328 horsepower and 442 Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth shifting and responsive acceleration. This transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving conditions to optimize fuel economy and performance. The all-wheel-drive system is primarily front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels as needed via an electronically controlled clutch for enhanced traction.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5-liter turbo engine provides ample power for a vehicle of the Traverse’s size. Acceleration is brisk, and the engine delivers strong torque throughout the rev range, making it well-suited for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a smooth driving experience, with well-chosen gear ratios that keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the earlier naturally aspirated V6 options, the turbo-four offers improved fuel economy and a more responsive feel. While not as overtly sporty as some smaller crossovers, the Traverse 2.5 Turbo provides a comfortable and confident driving experience, particularly on long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 Turbo trim typically comes standard with a high level of equipment. This includes features like tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, and a premium sound system. Infotainment is handled by a large touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Available options include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera system, and advanced safety features like lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Interior color schemes typically include dark and light options, with varying trim accents.
Chassis & Braking
The Traverse III utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. Brakes are disc brakes on all four wheels, with ventilated front rotors measuring 321x30mm and rear rotors measuring 315x23mm. The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and electronic stability control for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Traverse III 2.5 Turbo has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong engine performance. The fuel economy, while not class-leading, is considered acceptable for a vehicle of its size and capability. Compared to other trims in the Traverse lineup, the 2.5 Turbo offers a significant performance upgrade over the base engine, justifying its higher price point. It competes with other large crossovers such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer.
Legacy
The LK0 2.5-liter turbo engine is a relatively new addition to Chevrolet’s powertrain lineup. Long-term reliability data is still emerging, but early reports suggest that the engine is proving to be durable and dependable. The combination of a turbocharged engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission represents a shift towards greater efficiency and performance in the large crossover segment. As the Traverse III ages, the 2.5 Turbo variant is expected to hold its value well due to its desirable combination of power, features, and practicality. Its position as the top-tier engine option within the Traverse range will likely make it a sought-after choice in the used car market.
