Pick Your Vehicle: 2017 Vs. 2018 Chevy Traverse

The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse was one of the top-rated SUVs on the market for the model year, boasting nice interior amenities, spaciousness, and handy features. In 2018, it makes way for the second generation of the Chevy SUV, complete with new looks, more safety, improved technology, and more. It’s not that the 2018 is necessarily the better vehicle, but after nine years without a refresh, the 2018 came as a much-needed rehash to regain its foothold against the competition. Still, both have their perks, and regardless of which one you choose, you’re getting a quality vehicle.

Budget Considerations

The 2017 Traverse and 2018 Traverse both start at under $30,000, making them bargain buys in the often-expensive midsize SUV segment. When it debuted, the 2017 had an MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) of $28,700. The 2018 edition clocked in at $29,930 MSRP. While the difference in price only equates to about 5 percent, dealers are eager to clear the lot to make room for the latest vehicle.

With a motivated seller, you can often snag a closeout deal instead of going with the new model. This is an awesome way to find a Traverse at an attractive discount. Drivers who want the latest gadgets and style may not find this deal lucrative, but if you aren’t too picky about the upgrades, it’s a steal of a deal.

Exterior Style

Perhaps the most striking feature of the 2018 Chevy Traverse is its exterior appeal. While the 2017 edition was often compared to a glorified minivan, the 2018 version transitions to a more aggressive look, thanks to a squared-off, truck-like front end that’s more reminiscent of the Chevy Tahoe or Suburban than anything else. Still, it doesn’t lose any of its spaciousness or capacity due to the upgrade, which is a welcome perk for fans of older models.

A new, more-striking grille, LED daytime running lights, and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps round out the other offerings of the all-new Traverse.

Space

Inside, the 2018 Traverse benefits from its new appearance by providing more space for passengers. Third-row seating comes standard on each of these models, providing seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The extended wheelbase of this version provides more legroom and headroom to third-row passengers than ever, while second-row occupants benefit from an additional 2.2 inches of legroom.

The tradeoff for passenger space is that the 2018 version takes quite a hit in cargo space compared to the 2017 edition. The 2017 Traverse offers up to 116 cubic feet of space compared to just 98 cubic feet of space for the 2018. At full passenger capacity, the 2017 Traverse supplies 24.4 cubic feet of room behind the rear seat, while the 2018 gets 23 cubic feet. If you need the cargo space, the 2017 is the better option, but as a family hauler, both models break even.

After a quick comparison of both models, it’s far easier to see which model works for you. If you still can’t decide, schedule a test drive for a firsthand look at everything that makes these models the cream of the crop in the crowded, competitive SUV realm.