The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS is an SUV that is built for speed, power, style and the long-haul. While it may take a bit of a learning curve to get used to if you’ve never owned an SUV before, the large size will be familiar to those who have driven other heavy SUVs like an Expedition. In this trim you’re going to get some of the best upgrades that come with the Traverse. It beats out the competition across the board in a few key ways. We’ll show you why in this comprehensive review guide for the 2023 Chevy Traverse.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The Traverse RS is akin in interior space and size to a minivan, but still looks and handles like an SUV.
- Many coveted features of the lower trims are made standard on this mid-tier upgrade.
- The RS has an overall sporty feel and has a comparable towing capacity to most other SUVS of its category.
WHAT POWER COMES WITH THE RS?
In the past, the RS came with its own engine. Nowadays, that’s not really the case – the RS uses the same powertrain as the other trims as standard and can be upgraded. The RS has a solid engine that is well-rounded, so if it’s just the trim features that you’re looking for, you’re in good hands with the 3.6-liter V6 that is under the hood of the RS. With it, you’re going to get around 310 horsepower and 226 pounds per feet of torque. All wheel drive and front wheel drive is available as well. Between that, the torque and the 310 – the RS is going to provide viable off-road capabilities. The 5,000 pounds towing maximum makes the RS an excellent choice for when towing a trailer on any terrain, and while it may not be the top of its class with SUV towing capabilities, it’s a reliable choice if you know primarily what you’re going to use your SUV for.
FUEL ESTIMATE
No matter what trim of the Traverse you’re in, since you’re getting the same engine – you’re getting the same gas mileage. For a vehicle its size and capability, it's an average of 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Overall, it’s an average result – nothing out of its league.
TRIM SPECIFIC FEATURES
The Traverse is a big vehicle in general. And while it feels sturdy to the ground with its solid drive, it can be difficult to maneuver to newcomers. That’s where the RS comes into play. Its standardized features are a dream for those needing the extra support when operating this heavy SUV and give solid peace of mind to anyone else. For instance, the standardized adaptive cruise control navigation and multi-camera system significantly improves the visibility when navigating tight corners or packed parking lots.
Visibility in big SUVs like this one can be a cause for potential concern as well, and the RS alleviates this with the incorporation of a wide camera. It’s a feature that comes with the rear-view mirror and can toggle between a traditional mirror and a live feed. Especially for drivers that plan on using each of the 23 cubic feet of the cargo space (or plan on having a cabin full of passengers), it helps see past all of it by toggling to the cameras in the back. Speaking of cargo space, the RS uses its size to its advantage and can reach up to 98 cubic feet when all the seats are folded down. You can also expect the rest of the entirety of safety features that comes with Chevy Assist to come fully included in the RS.
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR STYLE: TRAVERSE RS
With the RS, you are getting a muscle SUV with a sporty feel. It has 20-inch dark-painted aluminum wheels and black accents all around the exterior chrome and interior dash. Black windows, roof rails, moldings, bowtie emblems and grille further emphasize the sporty yet powerful aesthetics the RS defines. On the interior, black leather with red stitching matches the outside and keeps the RS clean and refined for miles.
A GREAT TRIM FOR THE RIGHT UPGRADES
For any new SUV buyer that wants a powerful SUV with all the necessary upgrades to better help pilot its power, the RS is the recommended trim to choose. It’s going to keep you and your family going well into the future, and perfectly comfortable the entire way.
