2009 Chevrolet Traverse LT Will Take You There In Style

The Perfect Practical Equation: 2009 Chevrolet Traverse LT

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard equipment on the LS includes 17-inch steel wheels, eight-passenger seating, split-folding second- and third-row bench seats, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, full power accessories, OnStar and a six-speaker CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

The midrange LT trim level actually comes with the choice of two packages: the moderate 1LT and the more upscale 2LT. The 1LT package offers 18-inch alloy wheels, an eight-way power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear parking sensors and remote vehicle start. Select the 2LT package and get all that plus Bluetooth, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 10-speaker Bose system, rear audio system controls, seven-passenger seating featuring second-row captain's chairs, a power liftgate and a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror. The Traverse LTZ improves upon the 2LT with 20-inch wheels, leather seating, heated and cooled power front seats with driver memory settings, a navigation system with real-time traffic and a rearview camera.

Many of the features on upper trim levels can be added to the lower ones via optional packages. Also available are dual sunroofs and a rear-seat entertainment system. Should you wish to take advantage of the Traverse's 5,200-pound towing capacity, a trailering package is available on all trim levels and includes a heavy-duty engine cooler and trailer hitch.

Like the other three large General Motors crossovers, the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse hits a happy medium between secure handling and a comfortable ride. And even though it is a big vehicle (4,720 pounds with front-wheel drive, 4,925 pounds with all-wheel drive), it doesn't feel nearly as large and lumbering as it should from behind the wheel. The 3.6-liter V6 feels peppy and capable. Its higher than average towing capability is a plus, too, though during a test-drive that included towing a 4,200-pound boat (1,000 pounds below the Traverse's maximum tow rating), the crossover seemed a bit overtaxed when compared to a lighter competitor. Additionally, the six-speed automatic transmission is often unwilling to downshift, which, though good for fuel economy, can be frustrating.


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