The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse is a family SUV with some unusually large numbers attached to it: seating for up to 8, 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen, and 328 hp from an engine displacing just 2.5L. But the more interesting part is how Chevrolet uses the same basic platform to create 4 distinct versions. LT concentrates on passenger flexibility, Z71 gets meaningful off-road hardware, RS turns up the visual aggression, and High Country heads toward the premium end. For Benton, AR families, choosing one means deciding which version of the Traverse formula fits best.
A 2.5L Turbo Does All the Heavy Lifting
Every Traverse uses a 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder producing 328 hp and 326 lbs. ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. FWD or available AWD is offered depending on trim, so there isn't a lower-output engine hiding at the bottom of the range. Properly equipped LT, Z71, and RS models provide up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity with their included trailering equipment. That's enough capacity to make the Traverse more than a passenger hauler, particularly for families bringing a small camper, boat, or recreational trailer along for the trip.
The Second Row Determines Who Gets a Seat
Traverse can carry up to 8 passengers when configured with a second-row bench, while models with second-row captain's chairs accommodate 7. LT provides the greatest flexibility here, an important distinction for shoppers who routinely fill every seating position. Z71, RS, and High Country shift their priorities toward capability, design, or premium equipment. This is one specification worth deciding early because the difference between 7 and 8 seats can be considerably more important to a family than a wheel design or exterior trim package.
The Cargo Area Is Enormous When the Seats Fold
With the second and third rows folded, the Traverse provides up to 98 cubic feet of cargo volume. A 60/40 split-folding third row means owners don't have to choose between carrying passengers or dropping the entire rear bench for gear. Smaller storage areas throughout the cabin handle the loose objects that inevitably accumulate in a family SUV. The important achievement here is packaging: Traverse can carry 3 rows of people, then convert into a large cargo space when those seats aren't needed.
The Dashboard Starts With 17.7 Inches
A 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard, accompanied by an 11-inch Driver Information Center and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. More than 20 safety and driver-assistance features are also standard across the lineup. Available Super Cruise® introduces hands-free driver assistance on compatible roads. On RS and High Country, Super Cruise® with a 3-year OnStar® One plan is standard, making those trims especially interesting for drivers who spend substantial time covering highway miles.
The Trim Levels Change More Than the Decoration
LT establishes the baseline with 3-row versatility, the 328-hp turbocharged engine, and the same large digital displays used throughout the range. Z71 is where the engineering takes a different route, adding Advanced Twin-Clutch AWD, Terrain Mode, Hill Descent Control, off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, and 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. RS moves in another direction with sportier exterior treatment and 22-inch high-gloss black-painted aluminum wheels. High Country focuses on premium design and additional comfort features. The common powertrain means these aren't performance steps arranged in ascending order; they're different interpretations of the same SUV.
Compare the 2027 Traverse at Everett Chevrolet
Visit Everett Chevrolet in Benton to compare the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse LT, Z71, RS, and High Country and see how their seating, drivetrain, and equipment differences translate in person. Schedule a test drive to experience the 328-hp turbocharged powertrain, 17.7-inch touchscreen, 3-row cabin, and available AWD before choosing your Traverse.
