Chevrolet Traverse 2010

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse ranks 2 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Traverse, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Chevrolet Traverse is an affordable, stylish and versatile minivan alternative. Its spacious seven- or eight-passenger seating and class-leading cargo space make it a great family SUV.

As Chevy's first large crossover SUV, the Traverse replaced the discontinued Uplander minivan when it debuted in 2009. It shares a platform with the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, and several reviewers say it's the best of the three. "There is a plethora of crossover SUVs to choose from today and they come in all sizes," says MSN. "If you regularly tote around six or seven passengers, occasionally load plywood sheets or tow up to 5,200 pounds, the Traverse should be added to your shopping list."

The Traverse’s greatest strength is a standard third-row seat, which brings the seating capacity to eight and is actually big enough to fit adults. It also boasts an incredible amount of cargo space that no other SUV in its class can match. At just over $29,000, the Traverse’s starting price is about average for its class, which makes it a good value. Its 17/24 city/highway fuel economy is also about average, but is especially impressive when compared to other eight-passenger SUVs.

Other SUVs to Consider

Since the Affordable Midsize SUV class is so large, there are even more affordable options – but it’s difficult to find one as well-rounded as the Traverse, or one that seats eight passengers.

Still, you may want to consider the Ford Flex, which comes with a two-person third row that’s big enough to fit adults. It has a comparable fuel economy rating and shaves a few hundred dollars off the Traverse’s base price. Its biggest advantage, however, is an optional EcoBoost engine, which boasts a whopping 355 horsepower. Just remember that the Flex also comes with unique retro styling, which may or may not float your boat.

Another good three-row option is the Honda Pilot. It costs about $1,300 less than the Traverse and has a very similar fuel economy rating. However, it doesn’t provide nearly as much cargo capacity and comes with a much boxier exterior.

Details:

The 2010 Traverse is available in a few trim levels -- LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ -- in either front- or all-wheel drive. Since it was just introduced last year, the Traverse gets only minor changes for 2010, such as the addition of a USB port. Since the 2010 Traverse is nearly identical to the 2009 model, this review uses data from both model years.