2016 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2012 Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse is one of the best large crossover SUVs on the road – but you already knew that. In fact, you’re specifically shopping for the Traverse’s three rows of spacious seating, smooth on-road power, and modern infotainment features. Still, you’re wondering whether you should buy new or used. We’re here to help. Read our side-by-side comparison guide, where we highlight some of the major differences between the used 2012 Chevrolet Traverse and the new 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.

Tech Innovations

If you crave all the latest gadgets, you’re going to have to go with the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. It’s got a wide range of infotainment features that didn’t even exist with the used 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. First up is the 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. As you cruise the highways, you’ll be able to connect all your favorite devices and surf the Web on the go. Kids will love it, too – it’s never been easier to keep them occupied during long road trips. Next is the MyLink infotainment system. Use its many smartphone integration features to keep up with friends and family without looking away from traffic. These features include hands-free calling and voice-to-text messaging. It’s also easy to keep all your devices fully charged, because the 2016 Traverse gives you two convenient, charge-only USB ports.

Back in 2012, the Chevrolet Traverse wasn’t completely lacking. Like the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, it provided Bluetooth connectivity and a CD player. Of course, most of us don’t tote our CD collections around anymore.

Safety

Want all the best safety gear the Traverse has to offer? Then it’s time to purchase a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. In it, high-tech safety systems boost driver vigilance by alerting you to on-road danger. Like the forward-collision warning system, for example – it lets you know if you’re coming up too fast on whatever’s up ahead. The blind-spot monitoring system also comes in handy inside this big crossover, because it warns you about vehicles you might not be able to see.

When it comes to crash tests, both models excel. In government crash tests, both the used 2012 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2016 Traverse earned a perfect five-star rating for overall protection. For both model years, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Traverse its top score of “Good.” Both models also give you the OnStar telematics system. This excellent feature guards against unexpected issues – thanks to a collection of features, like automatic collision notification and on-demand roadside assistance.