Sport Cars i8 Concept

Over the last few years, many people have come to the realization that although they liked the convenience that traditional SUVs provide, they do not really like how this slow heavy, truck-based giant can. If you're one of these people, we encourage you to check the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse.

Apart from the audio system relocated USB input and the addition of heated cloth seats to the list of options for model LT, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse remain largely unchanged. As a big crossover, Traverse combines the power of people-and cargo-schlepping from an SUV with carlike ride and handling of a minivan. Indeed, by choosing a crossover, you will give up heavy-duty towing capacity of those old-school sport-utes and the practicality of the end of a minivan. However, at the end of the day, the benefits offered by such Traverse crossover makes them the smart choice for many racers.

While the Traverse is the most expensive of the three GM's big crossover built on the same basis (the other two are the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia), was interesting in a way that goes beyond the bottom line. Families will appreciate the roomy interior offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, they will also tend to be warm with a surprising number of upscale features found on upper trim levels. Fuel economy is decent and relatively high scores in government crash tests and the insurance industry is also part of the deal.

2011 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV is available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard equipment on the LS include 17-inch steel wheels, eight-passenger seating, split-folding second-and third-row bench seat, tilt steering wheel-and-telescoping, air conditioning, full power accessories, OnStar and six-speaker CD/MP3 player with auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

The midrange LT trim level is actually comprised of two sub-trim choices: a well equipped 1LT 2LT and more upscale. 1LT Package offers 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, eight-way power driver's seat, trip computer, a steering wheel wrapped in leather and rear parking sensors. Select 2LT package and you'll get all that plus tri-zone automatic climate control, 10-speaker Bose system (with USB port), rear audio control system, seven-passenger seating (second row captain's chairs display), a power liftgate and a camera integrated into the rearview mirror.

The Traverse LTZ luxury ups ante with 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated power front seats (with driver memory settings), Bluetooth connectivity and remote ignition. Many standard features on the top trim levels can be added with a lower through option packages. Other highlights from the list of add-ons including trailer-towing package, navigation system (with real-time traffic, rearview camera and USB ports), dual sunroofs and rear seat entertainment DVD system (with USB port).

Exterior

Length: 205 in. Width: 78.4 in.

Height: 72.8 in. Wheel Base: 118.9 in.

Ground Clearance: 7.2 in. Curb Weight: 4790 lbs.

Gross Weight: 6411 lbs.

Interior

Front Head Room: 40.4 in. Front Hip Room: 59.1 in.

Front Shoulder Room: 62 in. Rear Head Room: 39.4 in.

Rear Shoulder Room: 61.3 in. Rear Hip Room: 57.8 in.

Front Leg Room: 41.3 in. Rear Leg Room: 36.8 in.

Luggage Capacity: 24.4 cu. ft. Maximum Cargo Capacity: 116 cu. ft.

Maximum Seating: 8

Performance Data

Performance

Base Number of Cylinders: 6 Base Engine Size: 3.6 liters

Base Engine Type: V6 Horsepower: 281 hp

Max Horsepower: 6300 rpm Torque: 266 ft-lbs.

Max Torque: 3400 rpm Maximum Payload: 1689 lbs.

Maximum Towing Capacity: 5200 lbs. Drive Type: FWD

Turning Circle: 40.4 ft.

Fuel Data

Fuel

Fuel Tank Capacity: 22 gal.

EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)

Automatic: 17 mpg / 24 mpg / 19 mpg