Anyone towing with a Chevy Traverse?

[~Kristina~]

We're looking at the Traverse for a new tow vehicle. If you're towing with it, what are you towing? Length and weight?

 

[DaveInTN]

Sorry I can't help, but bumping this in case someone else can.

 

[disney4dan]

If you are looking for a new vehicle for towing, my advice would be to consider something bigger. I have never owned the traverse, but we did consider trying to set up for camping with a mini-van years ago so we would have room for the family.

What I found is that the minivans and cross-overs will be pushed to their limits very quickly with a family of 5. They are GREAT for everyday and road trips, but not towing. Another thing to consider is the suspension. These vehicles are designed for comfort while driving, but I don't know about handling while putting so much weight on the hitch.

I ended up with a truck, but I seriously considered a full sized van with a frame and longer wheelbase, better towing capacity and handling while towing. And Chevy offers some great options in this category so you also get nearly identical gas mileage, more room in the passenger area (and more storage behind the last seat). The vehicle you are looking at has a 24 mpg rating, and I think many of the half ton trucks and vans are pushing 21mpg and the hybrid is reporting 23 mpg.

Just something to think about before the purchase. Not trying to be negative on the Traverse (it looks like a great vehicle), but Chevy and others offer some very nice alternatives that are comfortable, well equipped, similar price and better designed for towing. Those kids will be older before you know it and you might want a bigger trailer before long.

 

[bigdisneydaddy]

Although I dont have the stats in front of me the fact that its a small V6 and front wheel drive with a soft ride will not equate to a strong tow vehicle, maybe a smaller pop up but thats about it IMHO. Everything is a trade off for day to day use VS the occasional towing. For the money, a 1/2 ton crew cab pickup with a V8 is a much better starting point for about the same money.

 

[disney4dan]

The full size Chevy and Ford vans will provide similar towing ability and mpg as the trucks, but will give more seating capacity for your family.