Overview
- The 2024 Chevy Traverse steps up with a more aggressive exterior design and an upscale cabin, featuring a massive 17.7-inch infotainment display as standard. Under the hood, you’ll find a new 315-hp 2.5L engine.
- Introducing the first-ever Z71 Traverse. Upgraded with a 1.2-inch factory suspension lift, standard twin-clutch all-wheel drive, and a range of off-road-specific upgrades, the 2024 Chevy Traverse Z71 is amongst the few family SUVs ready for backcountry adventures.
The 2024 Chevy Traverse is all new. The Chevy Traverse has always been a go-to for families, thanks to its most spacious three-row layout in the class. For 2024, it retains that reputation and keeps all the family-friendly features you know and love but adds a lot more flair.
A dazzling exterior redesign, cutting-edge GM tech, a stronger powertrain, and an expanded lineup that now includes the off-road-focused Z71 model are all part of the upgrades.
Yes, Chevy has finally expanded its Z71 lineup to include the 2024 Traverse, and it’s no mere badge upgrade. In fact, the Traverse Z71 gets even more serious off-road gear than some of its full-size Z71 siblings. From Upgraded off road suspension, an extra inch of ground clearance clearance, to beefed-up all-wheel drive system, off-road biased tires and and much more in between.
We cover all details in this article. But before that, here’s a snapshot of the 2024 Traverse Z71 specs.
| 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| MSRP (Without Destination) | $46,400 |
| Powertrain | 2.5-liter turbo-four |
| Horsepower | 328 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Drivetrain | Twin-Clutch AWD |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Max Towing | 5,000 pounds |
| Max Cargo Volume | 98 cubic feet |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 21 mpg combined |
What Does the 2024 Chevy Traverse Z71 Offer?
The Z71 package is a celebrated feature in the Chevy lineup, crafted for those who crave rugged utility and off-road adventure. This iconic badge has been a staple on models like the Silverado, Colorado, and Tahoe, and now it makes its mark on the Traverse.
This pushes it at the top of the SUV list for families who love camping and outdoor adventures while still needing a comfortable vehicle for daily commutes.
Starting at $46,400, the 2024 Traverse Z71 comes packed with impressive enhancements.
Mechanical and Off-Road Features
- Advanced dampers with hydraulic rebound control
- 1.2-inch suspension lift for improved ground clearance
- Auto-locking rear differential
- Twin-clutch all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Standard trailering package
- Enhanced approach angle
- Aluminum underbody skid plate and tow hooks
- Selectable traction modes for various terrains
- Hill Descent Control
- 18″ Goodyear all-terrain tires (265/65R18SL)
Firstly, the Traverse Z71 is exclusively bolstered by ZF frequency-based adaptive dampers, perfect for uneven terrain, and it sits an inch higher than other Traverse models, a 1.2-inch suspension lift to be precise. Additionally, the Z71 features a slightly wider track, which Chevy claims improves stability and handling.
The Traverse Z71 gets standard all-wheel drive system as expected, but it isn’t like the ones available on other trims as it is a more capable twin-clutch system. You’ll also find standard hill descent control and drive modes tailored for off-road conditions.
The Z71 doesn’t just offer a better approach angle than other Traverse models—it also comes equipped with a rugged front bumper and an aluminum skid plate, giving you extra confidence when navigating muddy trails or rough gravel roads.
Wrapping the package are Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires, and a standard trailering package which unlocks the 5000 pound tow capacity.
Appearance Enhancements
- Jet Black Evotex seats with red stitching and decor
- Z71 badging and embroidery
- 18-inch high-gloss black machined-face wheels
- High-gloss black roof-mounted side rails
- Sporty high-gloss black grille
The Traverse Z71 is easily identifiable thanks to its rugged exterior features that scream trail-readiness.
The front end is styled with a tougher look, featuring a raised fascia and bumper for improved clearance. You’ll also spot bold red recovery hooks on the bumper for off-road assistance, and an aluminum skid plate underneath for added protection. Roof rails come standard, and the Z71 is unique among the Traverse trims for being available in the Harvest Bronze Metallic color
The Z71 rolls on striking, high-gloss 18-inch machined aluminum wheels. Plus, the iconic Z71 badging is proudly displayed on the grille and stitched into the Jet Black Evotex seats.
Other Standard features on the Traverse Z71
The Z71 trim of the Traverse lineup sits above the LS and LT trim, hence it carries forward the features those trims already have on offer, including:
- LED headlamps and taillamps
- Power folding heated mirrors
- Heated front seats
- Leather wrapped, heated steering wheel
- Triple-zone climate control
- AutoSense power liftgate
- 17.7″ diagonal advanced color LCD display with Google built-in compatibility
- 11″ inch digital gauge cluster
- Power driver seat with 4-way power lumbar support
- SmartSlide second-row seating
A comprehensive suite of standard Active Safety Features. Key highlights include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Enhanced Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- HD 360 degree camera
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Forward Collision Alert with Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Rear Cross Traffic Braking
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
Available Options
Key available options on the Z71 Chevy Traverse include:
- Sunroof
- Enhanced Driving Package
- Super Cruise driver assistance technology
- Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist
- Digital rearview mirror
- Driver Attention Assist
- Bose premium audio system
What Does the New 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Get?
Beyond the impressive extras packed into the Z71 package, third-generation Traverse owners will experience a range of new amenities and enhancements over earlier models.
Apart from an enhanced in-your-face, truck-like appearance, the new Chevy SUV brings upgraded technology, comfort, and a more luxurious feel to the table.
An All-new Tech Experience
Inside, the all-new third-generation Traverse presents a fully revamped layout that’s both minimalist and attractive.
The centerpiece of this interior is the striking 11-inch digital driver information display, paired with a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes standard across all Traverse models.
Thanks to the latest Google software interface, this infotainment system offers extensive customization options and seamless connectivity with Google apps like Maps and Play for navigation and entertainment, complete with hands-free voice commands via Google Assistant.
Fortunately, the Traverse retains physical controls for volume and climate settings, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM capability, OnStar, Chevy Connected Services, and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.
The Z71 trim adds additional perks, such as wireless phone charging, and you can opt for the premium Bose 10-speaker audio system as well.
Spacious Traverse Gets Even Better
More importantly, the 2024 Traverse hasn’t parted away from its fundamental strength as the most practical three-row mid-size SUV.
The third row can accommodate real live adults if the need arises and the second row offers flexible seating options: the LS trim comes with standard seating for eight, while other trims feature second-row captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The Z71 is available only with the seven-seater configuration.
Heated front seats with power adjustability for the driver and heated steering wheel and side view mirror, are all standard on the Z71. The Z71 is also spec’d with Jet Black Evotex seats with eye-catching red stitching.
Inside, you’ll find nearly 98 cubic feet of cargo space, with fold-flat seats that make the interior incredibly versatile—perfect for road trips, camping adventures, grocery hauls, moving day, and everything in between.
Related: Best 9-Passenger SUVs
A New Engine Debuts
The old V6 engine has been swapped out for a 2.5-liter engine that delivers 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Downsizing the engine returns better efficiency. However, what’s surprising is that this new four pot motor is also more powerful than the Traverse V6, providing plenty of oomph to get the Traverse Z71 well off the beaten path.
Loads of Safety Tech
Of course, the Traverse is equipped with a range of driver assistance technologies designed to keep your entire family safe.
Right from the base variant, it offers a solid foundation of essential safety features. And it isn’t three or four basic features, but the new 2024 Traverse benefits from a rather comprehensive array of advanced active safety tech.
You’ll benefit from adaptive cruise control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a high-definition 360-degree camera, Enhanced Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and much more.
The only upgradable feature and it’s something a lot of drivers would love getting is the Super Cruise.
The Traverse includes the latest version of GM’s true hands-free driver assistance system, which works seamlessly on a vast network of roads across North America. Super Cruise is available on the Z71 and comes standard on the RS.
Should you Buy the Chevrolet Traverse Z71?
It sits an inch higher, features an upgraded 4WD system, has chunkier tires, and comes equipped with tow hooks and some additional underside protection. This makes traversing rough terrain and sticky situations way easier and less-stressful.
Yes, the Traverse Z71 isn’t a rock-crawler in any sense but roughly the additional $6,000 you spend on the Z71 package brings a lot of upgrades over the LT model, that makes your Traverse adventure ready – perfect for those looking to access a campground.
Not to mention, it already offers plenty of family space, comfort, and tech—making it an all round package.
A strong substitute to the bulkier, truck-based Tahoe, especially for buyers who don’t require the beefiness of a full-size SUV– we guess so.
The Z71 Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds, giving you the capability to haul your gear with confidence.
Yes, the Z71 Traverse features an off-road-tuned suspension that includes a factory lift of 1.2 inches, enhancing its ability to tackle rugged terrain.
The starting price for the 2024 Chevy Traverse Z71 is $47,795, including destination fees.
The Z71 is designed for off-road adventures, while the RS adds a sporty flair with unique styling elements and 22-inch wheels. Both trims feature exclusive suspension tuning for improved handling and agility.
Both the Chevy Traverse and Tahoe offer a specialized Z71 trim level that is customized towards off-road friendliness. While the full-size Tahoe Z71 has a comprehensive set of off-road dedicated equipment right from the factory, the Traverse Z71 takes it up a notch with specialized off-road suspension tuning and a 1.2-inch lift. For a suspension upgrade on the Tahoe Z71, you need to opt for the “Off Road Capability Package,” which includes Magnetic Ride Control dampers and a air Ride Adaptive suspension.
