One of the very best ways to save money when shopping for a vehicle is to consider purchasing a pre-owned one like a used Chevy Traverse. Simply put, there are many reasons why you should consider a pre-owned vehicle, thus making it an easy recommendation for many drivers. However, with such a bustling market, how exactly can you tell what vehicle you should invest in?
The best way to go about this is by familiarizing yourself with the newest vehicles and work your way down your favorite lineup’s history. For example, a used Chevy Traverse, when compared to a brand new one, can potentially be a better choice for your current lifestyle. But why should you invest in a used Chevy Traverse? For starters, the Traverse is not only a powerful and reliable vehicle nowadays, but it has a history of this as well. You can find a used Chevy Traverse that performs almost identically to the newest models, should you do your research correctly.
As is the case with many lineups, significant changes aren’t made on an annual basis but rather subtle ones. This mostly leaves the major changes, such as exterior designs and, in some cases, engines to generational leaps rather than an annual upgrade. When the Chevy Traverse comes into discussion, many of the significant changes have been made with the introduction of the second-generation Traverse in 2018.
The second-generation Traverse deviated itself from the first with an assortment of upgrades, including the available powertrains. In addition to this, you’ll find a host of interior features in many used Traverse vehicles that are still implemented within the lineup today. Considering the current generation of the Chevy Traverse started back in 2018, this means it’s entirely possible to find a current-gen Traverse offered as a CPO vehicle. CPO vehicles tend to be less than five years old and come included with a manufacturer warranty, so the Traverse is a perfect candidate.
Same Powertrain For A Lower Price
The Traverse is an ample performer and has been for quite some time. The engine you’ll find in the current day Traverse is the same engine that has come standard since 2018. By utilizing this engine and properly fitting your Traverse for towing, you can tow upwards of 5,000 lbs. What this ultimately means is the Traverse can easily perform lighter towing tasks, whether it’s for business or hobbyism.
For the 2020 and 2021 model years, there is only one engine option that can be fitted into the Traverse. In the 2018 and 2019 Traverse, specific trims come equipped with a turbocharged engine. The standard V6 that you’ll find in the Traverse from 2018 onwards is a 3.6L engine that can produce 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque.
Regardless of the trim level you select, this engine will be paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for smooth gear shifting. As this is the same engine seen in the newest Traverse, fuel economy ratings also remain identical. With this engine equipped, your Traverse will get EPA-estimated ratings of 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway should it have all-wheel drive (AWD). However, these ratings are slightly better when paired with a front-wheel drive (FWD) Traverse as it’ll receive ratings of 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway instead.
As previously mentioned, the 2018 and 2019 Traverse offer a turbocharged engine in certain trims. Although horsepower isn’t on par with the V6 as this engine produces 255 hp, it outperforms it in torque output with 295 lb-ft of torque. In addition to having greater torque output, this engine is far more fuel-efficient than the V6 as well, with EPA-estimated ratings of 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The omission of this engine from the 2020 model year onwards is a massive detriment to the newer Traverse and makes the used Traverse a more appealing offer. Many shoppers may not look for the specific trims that house this turbocharged engine, but those looking for the best torque and fuel efficiency should consider it.
A Like-New Interior
The similarities between the brand new Traverse and used models from 2018 onwards is not limited to just the powertrain. An identical situation can be seen when exploring the interiors as well. Purchasing a used Chevy Traverse from the last few years will save you money and grant you the same amount of cargo space and seating arrangements. The main difference between a new Traverse and a pre-owned one is the replacement of MyLink with a brand new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. This change was made for the 2020 model year and the latest Traverse follows suit. However, MyLink still provides an exceptional infotainment center experience for those who purchase a Traverse with MyLink included.
Regarding the cargo space, Traverse models from 2018 onwards feature identical dimensions. Nothing has changed regarding the length of the Traverse, which remains at 17 feet long. This also means that your Traverse will have a maximum cargo space of 98.2 cu.ft. when both rear rows are folded down. By keeping the second row upright but folding the backmost row, you’ll have 57.8 cu.ft of space to work with.
Your Traverse will support a maximum passenger capacity of either seven or eight people depending on the seat configuration your Traverse comes with. Even with every seat occupied, you’ll still have 23 cu.ft of space to store any additional cargo. These numbers are identical to the most current Traverse model, so it helps shine extra light onto the used models as you will save money, but retain these dimensions.
Although the MyLink system has been replaced by Chevrolet Infotainment 3, a host of similarities remains. Just like the brand new Traverse, pre-owned models from 2018 through 2020 come standard with a 7-inch touch screen that may be upgraded to an 8-inch screen. In addition to this, six USB ports come standard, which is still the assortment you’ll find today.
Regardless of which infotainment center your Traverse comes equipped with, it’ll still support a host of modern features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both of these pieces of software allow you to connect your smartphone and access a majority of its functions, including hands-free control. These features, along with an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for wireless and reliable internet, were introduced into the lineup for the 2015 model year. This ultimately means that you can save money and still receive features in use today.
Used No Longer Means Obsolete
A used Traverse is a prime example of a lineup that retains its relevance long after its initial release. The benefits of saving money while getting the same experience you’d have if paying the full MSRP of a new vehicle can not be undermined. Of course, the used market isn’t always a consistent one, and because of this, research is essential for success. As mentioned earlier, finding a used Traverse from either 2018, 2019, or 2020 model years listed as a CPO vehicle is a strong possibility. The best way to start searching for a used Traverse is to visit your local Chevy dealership and speak with a helpful sales representative. Additionally, utilizing internet search tools such as Google to find the best deals in your area is another excellent way of getting started.
