Let’s face it, the transition from sporty sedans to family SUVs can feel like admitting defeat. For years, I stubbornly clung to my aging BMW 3 Series, enduring the daily chaos of wrestling kids and car seats into its cramped confines. The allure of a nimble sports car was strong, fueled by youthful automotive fantasies. SUVs? They were the antithesis of cool. That was, until a week spent behind the wheel of the 2023 Chevy Traverse RS. This three-row SUV, far from being the automotive equivalent of sensible shoes, started to chip away at my preconceived notions. Could it be that embracing practicality doesn’t mean sacrificing driving enjoyment, and perhaps, dare I say it, SUVs can actually be… good?
Before experiencing the 2023 Traverse Rs firsthand, the name itself conjured images of beige boredom. SUVs were simply appliances, designed for function over form, right? That perception began to shift the moment I encountered the sheer spaciousness of the Traverse’s interior. The revelation came while attempting the familiar parental contortion act – tightening a car seat anchor. In my sedan, this involves a trunk climb, awkward angles, and a general sense of automotive inadequacy. In the Traverse RS, however, the second-row captain’s chairs created a clear path. I simply walked between them, directly to the anchor point. This simple act, a mundane parenting task made effortlessly easy, was a genuine “aha!” moment. A disquieting thought began to form: was I actually… liking an SUV?
Driving the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS evoked a surprising sense of responsible contentment. It felt like stepping into the role of a capable, grounded adult, shedding the yearning for impractical automotive fantasies. This SUV wasn’t trying to be something it wasn’t. It was honest, straightforward, and remarkably good at its job. And to my surprise, that realization felt…dare I say… enjoyable?
2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS: Spec Deep Dive
To understand what makes the 2023 Traverse RS tick, let’s delve into the specifications that define this family-focused SUV:
- Base Price (as tested): $48,440 ($50,385) – Positioned competitively within the three-row SUV segment.
- Powertrain: 3.6-liter V6 | 9-speed automatic | all-wheel drive (optional) – A proven and reliable engine and transmission combination.
- Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6,800 rpm – Ample power for daily driving and family hauling.
- Torque: 266 lb-ft @ 2,800 to 3,500 rpm – Provides sufficient low-end grunt for confident acceleration.
- 0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds – Respectable acceleration for a vehicle of this size.
- Curb Weight: 4,602 pounds – Typical weight for a mid-size three-row SUV.
- Cargo Volume: 23 cubic feet (behind third row) | 57.8 cubic feet (behind second row) – Generous cargo space for luggage, groceries, and family gear.
- EPA Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (city) | 25 mpg (highway) | 20 mpg (combined) – Fuel economy is a consideration in this segment, and the Traverse RS is competitive but not class-leading.
- Quick Take: A practical and spacious family SUV that prioritizes functionality and ease of use.
- Score: 8/10 – A strong rating indicating a well-rounded and recommendable vehicle.
Traverse RS Basics: More Than Just a Badge
The Chevrolet Traverse occupies a significant space in Chevy’s SUV lineup as their full-size, three-row offering. The Traverse journey began in 2008 with the first generation debuting for the 2009 model year. The current second-generation model, launched in 2017 as a 2018 model, continues to build on this foundation. Underpinning the Traverse is General Motors’ C1XX platform, a robust architecture shared with siblings like the GMC Acadia and Cadillac XT6.
While the “RS” badge might evoke sporty connotations, reminiscent of Chevrolet’s performance heritage with models like the Camaro RS, it’s crucial to understand that the 2023 Traverse RS is not a performance SUV. The RS designation here is primarily an aesthetic upgrade. It brings a distinctive visual flair through black exterior accents – including the front grille badge and window trim – paired with 20-inch black wheels and a black interior punctuated by sporty red accents. Mechanically, the Traverse RS remains identical to other Traverse trim levels, focusing on practicality and family-friendly features rather than performance enhancements.
However, these visual enhancements are far from insignificant. The standard Traverse, while functional, can be perceived as somewhat bland, blending into the crowded landscape of American family SUVs. The RS trim injects a dose of personality. The black wheels and badges, especially when contrasted against the vibrant Radiant Red paint of the test vehicle, elevate the Traverse’s appearance, making it noticeably more appealing. While aesthetics alone can’t entirely transform a fundamentally conservative design, the RS package undeniably presents the Traverse in its most visually compelling form.
Inside the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS, the interior design prioritizes functionality and comfort. The sole interior option for the RS trim is a black theme with red stitching, maintaining the sporty-yet-understated aesthetic. The overall design is pleasing, if not groundbreaking, and while some plastic materials are present, they are in line with expectations for a three-row family SUV in this price range. Considering the as-tested price of under $50,000 for a fully loaded model, the interior appointments are appropriate and well-executed.
Ergonomically, the Traverse RS excels. The layout is intuitive, with a welcome abundance of physical buttons for frequently used functions. Traditional physical gauges in the instrument cluster are clear, concise, and easy to read at a glance. Stepping into the Traverse RS cabin creates an immediate sense of ease and familiarity. It’s a no-nonsense environment, free from unnecessary complexity, designed to simplify daily life. The focus is clearly on functionality and user-friendliness, and in these aspects, the Traverse RS delivers admirably.
The familiar theme continues under the hood of the 2023 Traverse RS. Powering this SUV is the same 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine found across the entire Traverse lineup. This engine produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth and responsive nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but the test vehicle was equipped with the optional all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and all-weather capability.
Driving Dynamics: Surprising Sure-Footedness
The driving experience in the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS defied initial expectations. Despite its front-wheel-drive architecture and substantial three-row SUV dimensions, the Traverse RS exhibited a surprising sense of solidity and composure on the road. The gear selector, reminiscent of those found in pickup trucks, engages with a reassuringly robust feel. The steering possesses a satisfying weight that builds progressively as you turn the wheel, providing a connected feel. Remarkably, for its size and height, the Traverse RS manages to keep body roll well-contained in corners. The level of body control was genuinely impressive, particularly considering the vehicle’s dimensions and price point.
However, this commendable body control comes with a trade-off in ride quality. Despite the generous ride height, ample suspension travel, and relatively tall tire sidewalls (55-section), the Traverse RS can feel somewhat firm and even “crashy” over sharper bumps and road imperfections. While not excessively harsh to the point of passenger discomfort, it’s noticeable, and occupants might experience some jostling over uneven surfaces. Juice boxes might be at risk on particularly bumpy roads. On the positive side, the seats themselves are generously padded and comfortable, proving to be supportive even on longer journeys. While lateral support is minimal, this actually enhances ease of entry and exit, a practical consideration for a family vehicle.
The sheer size of the Traverse RS is also readily apparent from behind the wheel. Thick A-pillars can create blind spots in corners, impacting forward visibility. The expansive cabin width can make navigating tight spaces, such as bank drive-throughs or narrow parking lots, feel somewhat precarious. Thankfully, the standard surround-view parking cameras are invaluable in mitigating these challenges. Without this feature, maneuvering the Traverse RS in confined parking situations would be significantly more stressful.
In terms of braking, the Traverse RS inspires confidence. The brakes are well-matched to the vehicle’s size and weight, providing reassuring stopping power when needed. The pedal feel is initially soft at the very top of its travel, but once accustomed to the pedal’s engagement point, modulation becomes intuitive, and concerns about stopping ability quickly dissipate.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine, while lacking the turbocharging prevalent in some newer competitors like the Ford Explorer, delivers ample power to confidently propel this seven-seater. The nine-speed automatic transmission operates seamlessly, remaining unobtrusive and responsive across various driving styles. There’s an inherent sense of understated capability in the Traverse RS. It’s a supremely functional SUV that simplifies daily life through its inherent utility.
High Points and Drawbacks: The Nuances of the Traverse RS
The primary appeal of the 2023 Traverse RS lies in its exceptional usability. The cavernous interior makes accommodating passengers and cargo effortless. Ample cupholders and storage compartments are strategically placed throughout the cabin, and a generous array of USB and charging ports ensures that devices remain powered and occupants stay connected.
The second-row captain’s chairs stand out as a particularly well-executed feature. They significantly simplify car seat installation and access, streamlining the often-frustrating process. Their ease of access extended to children as well; the author’s five-year-old son could independently climb into the second row, saving valuable time and effort. Third-row access is also commendably easy. The second-row seats fold and slide out of the way with minimal effort, and the third row offers surprisingly usable space, even for smaller adults. The author, of average height and build, found the third row accommodating. While perhaps not ideal for extended journeys with adults, the third row is perfectly suitable for children or shorter trips.
However, the 2023 Traverse RS is not without its imperfections. While the V6 engine provides adequate power, its character is somewhat unrefined. It can sound coarse and raspy at higher RPMs and lacks the aural appeal of some competitors’ engines. While most Traverse owners are unlikely to frequently push the engine to its limits, when more spirited acceleration is required, the V6 doesn’t deliver a particularly engaging experience. Furthermore, while the interior is undeniably practical, comfortable, and spacious, the design can be perceived as bland and uninspired. The author noted that the design grew tiresome within a week, suggesting that long-term owners might find themselves longing for a more visually stimulating cabin environment.
Features, Options, and the Competitive Landscape
The RS trim level of the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse represents a mid-tier offering, positioned above the base models and incorporating several desirable features as standard equipment. These include power-folding mirrors, Chevrolet’s Convenience and Confidence package (which bundles upgraded infotainment, heated front seats, and remote start), a heated steering wheel, and the aforementioned second-row captain’s chairs. The test vehicle was not equipped with any additional options beyond these standard RS features, and the author found it to be comprehensively equipped, likely satisfying the needs of most buyers.
The Chevrolet Traverse RS competes within the fiercely contested three-row SUV segment, one of the most popular in the American automotive market. At its approximate starting price of $48,440, the Traverse RS faces formidable rivals such as the Honda Pilot Touring, Jeep Grand Cherokee L Altitude, and Hyundai Palisade Limited, among others. While the Traverse offers a genuinely spacious third row, a key selling point for many buyers, it’s important to acknowledge that the current generation is older than some of its competitors and has not undergone a significant refresh in recent years. This puts it at a slight disadvantage in terms of newer technologies and potentially more modern designs offered by newer entrants in the segment.
Sustainability Considerations: Fuel Economy
One area where the 2023 Traverse RS faces a clear disadvantage compared to some competitors is fuel economy. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, while proven to be robust and reliable, and offering sufficient power, is naturally aspirated. This contrasts with the growing trend of turbocharged engines in the segment, which often offer improved fuel efficiency and low-end torque. For example, Toyota’s introduction of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the Highlander not only enhanced low-end responsiveness but also improved fuel economy. The Traverse could benefit from a similar powertrain update, potentially incorporating a turbocharged engine to enhance both performance and efficiency.
Value Proposition and Final Verdict
Priced around $50,000 for an all-wheel-drive model, the 2023 Traverse RS presents a compelling value proposition. It offers a significant amount of vehicle for the money, capable of comfortably transporting up to seven passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the cabin technology, particularly the surround-view camera system, is top-notch. Furthermore, the Traverse RS drives with a level of competence and composure that belies its size and segment.
While the 2023 Chevy Traverse RS may not be the most visually striking SUV in its class, and its ride quality can be somewhat firm, and the engine’s fuel consumption is a consideration, the overall experience proved surprisingly positive. The author likened the Traverse RS to a comfortable, familiar sweater – unassuming yet comforting and functional, especially in demanding everyday situations. Despite initial reservations about embracing a three-row SUV, the week with the Traverse RS highlighted its undeniable appeal for families. It excels at making the complexities of adult, family-oriented life simpler and more comfortable, a quality that becomes increasingly valuable with each passing year. The 2023 Chevy Traverse RS is a reminder that sometimes, the most sensible choice can also be a surprisingly satisfying one.
