2026 Chevy Traverse Buyer’s Guide: Explore LT, Z71, High Country & RS Trims

Between its three-row design, potent powertrain, and modern tech, the Chevy Traverse represents an enticing option for those exploring the SUV segment. The Traverse has earned plenty of accolades in recent years, including a 2025 Best Mid-Size 3-Row SUV award from Parents.com and a nod for its reliability as part of J.D. Power’s annual Initial Quality Study (IQS).

With four trims to choose from, buyers are sure to find a model that meets their unique requirements when they’re seeking out a new Chevy Traverse for sale. That said, it can be tough to narrow down the options, but Edwards Chevrolet 280 is here to help with our guide to the Traverse trim ladder.

From teens and growing families to off-road enthusiasts and drivers seeking an efficient way to tow a trailer or haul some supplies, the Traverse is designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s driving public. Let’s take a closer look at each trim and see how the SUV can excel in nearly every aspect as we explore the highlights of the 2026 Chevy Traverse.

Safety Comes First

The Traverse’s safety credentials have been widely recognized by some of the leading names in automotive safety, with the 2025 model earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick nod from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

As a carryover model, the 2026 Traverse is expected to repeat that success thanks to its high-strength steel construction and reinforced passenger cage, as well as its wide array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Chevy Safety Assist: Advanced Driver Support

The Chevy Safety Assist package includes a range of ADAS that leverage the latest tech to give drivers a newfound sense of confidence every time they step behind the wheel. A network of cameras and sensors constantly monitors surrounding traffic, and can jump into action to help prevent a near-miss from turning into a significant collision. Key features includes:

• Forward collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection.
• Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and intervention.

Longer rides or a predictable daily commute can cause drivers to lose focus and risk distraction, but Chevy Safety Assist works to minimize the effects of this monotony with crucial ADAS like lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control. That said, there’s one safety feature that really cements the SUV’s status as the go-to choice for new drivers: GM’s Teen Driver technology.

Teen Driving Safety Feature

There are few milestones quite as stressful as handing over the keys to a new teen driver, but Chevy has engineered around this anxiety with a suite of handy features that give parents more control over their fledgling motorists. Parents can:

• Set speed and audio limits.
• Filter explicit radio content.
• Prevent the Traverse from shifting into drive until everyone is buckled.

The Teen Driver system gives parents priceless peace of mind. The system even includes an in-vehicle report card that promotes accountability with detailed stats on distance driven, maximum speed, and the number of times various alerts and automated safety systems were activated.

LT Trim: Where Capability Comes Standard

Chevy’s reputation for crafting reliable, hardworking vehicles has played a major role in the brand’s success over the decades. Chevy trucks are known to be some of the most capable towing rigs on the road, and can regularly be seen pulling large equipment trailers, boats, campers, and other cargo that would leave lesser models gasping for air.

While the crossover class can’t quite aim for the towing potential of the Chevy Silverado 3500 HD (36,000 lbs) or Silverado 1500 (13,300 lbs), the Traverse posts a strong showing with a 5,000 lb towing capacity that places it right towards the top of its class.

Best of all, drivers won’t have to spring for high-end trims or equipment packages to enjoy every ounce of muscle that the three-row model has to offer. The Traverse is equipped with the same 2.5-liter turbocharged engine across the entire 2026 lineup, which means that every model can achieve the same 5,000-lb towing capacity while still earning an EPA-estimated 26 MPG on the highway.

Built-In Trailering Confidence

Even the Traverse’s base LT trim comes with a comprehensive Trailering package that includes three essential components that will go a long way in ensuring smooth towing throughout the whole process. The package includes a trailer hitch along with an upgraded engine cooling system that’ll prevent the motor from incurring any lasting damage as you test the SUV’s full towing capacity.

The Trailering package also addresses one of the most trying aspects of any towing task: making that tricky trailer hitch connection. A touchscreen-based hitch guidance system allows drivers to monitor the hitch ball and trailer couple right on the 17.7-inch dashboard display, and provides a graphic overlay that’ll help to guide the Traverse into the correct position.

Comfort and Technology Come Standard

It’s also worth noting just how well-equipped the entry-level Traverse is. The midsize model doesn’t miss out on any standard features, with every trim boasting a long list of premium tech. Chevy has clearly prioritized comfort and convenience when designing the third-gen Traverse, which includes a hands-free power liftgate, tri-zone climate control system, and a heated, power-adjustable driver’s seat.

The SUV’s 17.7-inch infotainment screen measures in well-above average, and is paired with an 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster that can be customized to display specific stats and gauges. A wireless charging pad, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto smartphone integration are included on every model, as are Google built-in apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant.

Z71: Readymade Off-Roader

The Z71 trim has been turning Chevy trucks and SUVs into readymade off-road machines since the early 1980s. Originally coined as an internal chassis code, the Z71 moniker now carries a lot of weight in the off-road community.

Seven Chevy models currently wear the Z71 badge, from SUVs like the Traverse, Tahoe, and Suburban to popular pickups in the Colorado, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500 HD, and Silverado 3500 HD.

Off-Road Performance and All-Terrain Capability

The Traverse does the name proud with its 18-inch gloss black wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, but that’s just a small taste of its off-road arsenal. The Z71’s advanced twin-clutch all-wheel drive system improves on the typical AWD design, which is typically limited to transferring power between the front and rear axles. The twin-clutch system can direct the engine’s output to each rear wheel, which offers obvious benefits for stability, traction, and agility in challenging off-road conditions.

The Traverse Z71 also includes an upgraded off-road suspension that improves the SUV’s ground clearance to 7.76 inches and increases its approach and departure angles, reducing the likelihood that the front and rear bumpers contact the road when navigating a steep hill.

The trim also packs a set of underbody skid plates that protect important components from common off-road obstacles, as well as red tow hooks that are sure to prove useful in any recovery scenario. The Z71 looks every bit the off-road SUV, with gloss-black exterior trim, and available black synthetic leather upholstery with red stitching and interior accents.

The Z71 also packs all the latest all-terrain tech courtesy of Chevy’s Terrain Mode and Hill Descent Control, so you’ll always be able to dial in the Traverse’s performance to meet your changing needs.

Optional Packages for Added Convenience

The Z72 and LT can be optioned with two bountiful equipment packages that significantly enhance the crossover’s safety resume, starting with the Enhanced Driving package. The package includes a clever automated parking system that can seamlessly guide the three-row SUV into a tight parking spot, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system that’ll keep the party going when you’re miles off the grid.

Still, the obvious highlight would have to be the addition of Chevy’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Allowing drivers to enjoy a true hands-free experience on over 585,000 miles of compatible roads across the U.S. and Canada. Super Cruise is routinely cited as one of the industry’s best offerings.

Finally, there’s the Driver Confidence package, which includes HD surround vision and a digital rearview mirror that lets drivers keep an eye on the road no matter how much cargo they have in the back. The Driver Confidence package also includes a 120-volt power outlet that can be used to power electronics, appliances, and other must-have equipment for your next off-road excursion.

Want to enjoy all of the Traverse’s safety tech without investing in optional add-ons? The Enhanced Driving and Driver Confidence package comes standard on both the SUV’s top High Country and RS trims.

High Country & RS: A Spacious Family Ride

If you’re ready to experience the high life, the Traverse is here to serve. Chevy has pulled out all of the stops to create a versatile vehicle that checks all of the boxes in terms of performance, safety, comfort, and convenience.

The Traverse’s three-row design and seven-passenger seating capacity make it a logical choice for those seeking a spacious family vehicle, but the High Country doubles down on the SUV’s domestic appeal with features designed to create an even more comfortable cabin.

Comfort and Luxury in Every Row

The trim adds a ventilation feature to the front row to match the standard heating function and keeps second-row passengers nice and cozy with their own heated seats. The front passenger seat offers a six-way power adjustment, leather upholstery, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and the interior ambient lighting system makes it easy to curate the perfect vibe for every ride. The High Country trim also rides on 22-inch wheels.

Room for Family and Cargo

The three-row Traverse occupies the larger end of the midsize spectrum and, unlike some smaller models, can comfortably accommodate seven full-grown passengers. That might not sound like a significant selling point, but when you compare the Chevy’s third row to some of the other backseats in the midsize segment, you’re sure to appreciate the Chevy’s generous dimensions.

The Traverse offers more third-row headroom and legroom than the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-90, and few models can match the SUV’s 57.7 inches of third-row shoulder room.

The roomy interior also means there’s plenty of space for all your cargo, whether it’s a week’s worth of groceries, camping supplies, or luggage. With 97.6 cu.ft. of max cargo room, the Traverse easily outpaces the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot (87.0 cu.ft.), as well as the Hyundai Palisade (86.7 cu.ft.), and can even store up to 22.9 cu.ft. with the third row in use.

RS Trim: Sporty Style with Premium Features

If you appreciate the High Country’s luxury-inspired design, but want to set yourself apart from the rest of the SUV crowd, the RS trim is the answer.

The RS sits at the top of the 2026 trim ladder but shares many of the High Country’s comfort, convenience, and tech features. The two trims do take decidedly different approaches, with the RS representing the sportier option, featuring black exterior trim and red interior accents. Like the High Country, the RS offers a premium design that’s sure to appeal to discerning drivers and busy families.

The RS pairs its head-turning style with plenty of substance, offering a confident 5,000-lb towing capacity. Its sporty design may appeal especially to enthusiastic drivers, making it a standout choice within the lineup.

Test Out Each Trim At Edwards Chevrolet 280

Whether you’re shopping for a capable off-road companion, a spacious family vehicle, a confident towing rig, or a safety-focused SUV well-suited for new drivers, the Chevy Traverse fits the bill.

The entry-level LT is ready to work, too, offering a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs along with a comprehensive Trailering Package that helps ensure you’re prepared for whatever the job demands.

The Z71’s advanced twin-clutch all-wheel drive system and improved ground clearance allow the SUV to tackle tough off-road terrain confidently, and the High Country delivers a refined crossover experience that puts a premium on comfort while still making the most of its ample interior.

Chevy’s standard Teen Driver tech means that every model is ready to handle the rigors of a new driver, and the RS offers a compelling combination of style and high-end features.

While each trim has its own unique advantages, every 2026 model offers the sort of versatility that’s all too uncommon in today’s auto industry. If you want to experience each model in person or explore the rest of the  2026 Chevy lineup, Edwards Chevrolet 280 is at your service.

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