Chevrolet Traverse (1st generation)
A car-like crossover that redefined the American family hauler.
- Power
- 281 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.9 s
- Top speed
- 133 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$8k
About the Chevrolet Traverse
Launched for the 2009 model year, the first-generation Chevrolet Traverse was a pivotal shift for GM, replacing both the body-on-frame TrailBlazer and the Uplander minivan. Built on the unibody Lambda platform shared with the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia, it offered superior ride quality and interior space compared to traditional SUVs. The 3.6-litre V6 featured direct injection, a sophisticated technology for the time that balanced power with respectable fuel efficiency. While it lacked the off-road prowess of its predecessors, its ability to seat eight and provide a massive cargo area made it a staple for suburban families.
Chevrolet Traverse specs
The Chevrolet Traverse produces 281 bhp (210 kW) and 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 133 mph (214 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | Traverse |
| Generation | First generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 3.6 V6 |
| Years | 2008–2017 |
| Type | SUV |
| Body style | SUV |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $28,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.6-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc (3.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 281 bhp (210 kW) at 6,300 rpm |
| Torque | 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,100 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.9 s |
| Top speed | 133 mph (214 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,141 kg (4,720 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 131 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet Traverse worth?
A typical Chevrolet Traverse is estimated to be worth $2,400 – $8,000 (about £1,800 – £6,000).
Its original price when new was about $28,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet Traverse rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet Traverse is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 6 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet Traverse fun facts
- The Traverse name was originally used for a 2003 Chevrolet concept car, though that vehicle was a much smaller crossover based on the Equinox.
- Despite its mid-size classification, the first-generation Traverse was over 205 inches long, making it longer than a full-size Chevrolet Tahoe of the same era.
- The LTZ trim featured a dual exhaust system that bumped the engine's output from 281 to 288 horsepower.