If you’ve been around this industry as long as I have, you know the Chevrolet Traverse has always been about practicality first. But for 2026, especially in the RS trim, Chevy adds a bit of attitude without losing the everyday usability that makes this three-row SUV such a strong seller.
Let’s start with what’s new, because this isn’t just a mild refresh. The 2026 Traverse rides on a fully redesigned platform introduced recently, and RS is now positioned as the sporty, tech-loaded trim. And it’s definitely tech-heavy in the best way possible.
There is a more aggressive look as well as upgraded power under the hood, and a major leap forward in interior tech including one of the biggest highlights: Super Cruise.
The RS trim is where the Traverse finally shows some swagger. Up front, you get a bold blacked-out grille paired with slim LED running lights and stacked main headlights that give it a modern, almost truck-like presence. The RS-specific gloss-black accents, badging, and larger wheels (up to 22 inches) really help it stand apart from the more mainstream trims and also stand tall (literally) within a crowded segment.
From the side, it’s long and purposeful, as you’d expect from a three-row SUV but the proportions feel tighter and more athletic than before. Around back, the LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets finish things off cleanly. It’s not just a family hauler anymore, it actually looks like it wants to be driven.
Gone is the old V6 and that might be off-putting to some. In its place, Chevrolet drops in a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and honestly, it works. The power numbers show an SUV that has solid acceleration with 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This isn’t just a family hauler, this is a family mover.
What stands out here isn’t just the power, it’s the delivery. The turbo gives it a punchier, more responsive feel compared to the outgoing model. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, shifts are smooth and predictable. For a vehicle this size, it feels surprisingly composed.
My tester has all-wheel drive (AWD), which is a nice touch if you’re dealing with rough weather or varied terrain. It’s still very much a road-focused SUV, but it handles confidently enough for daily driving and long trips.
Step inside, and this is where the 2026 Traverse RS really separates itself. The cabin is dominated by a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen, one of the largest in the segment, and a clean, horizontal layout that feels modern and uncluttered.
Materials in the RS trim are a step up, with red stitching, blacked-out finishes, and a sportier vibe overall. Seating is comfortable across all three rows, and importantly, the third row is actually usable rather than an afterthought.
Cargo space remains a strong point. Behind the third row there’s 22.9 cubic feet of space. Fold the third row down and that area expands to 56.6 cubic feet. The total interior cargo room is an impressive 97.6 cubic feet.
Let’s talk about my favorite feature which is the Super Cruise.
Chevy brings its hands-free driving system into the Traverse RS, and that’s a big deal for this segment. On compatible highways, Super Cruise allows you to drive hands-free, and it’s one of the most refined systems out there. I drove almost 40 miles on the highway without having to touch the steering wheel, the brake or the gas pedal. And it even changed lanes automatically, to keep up with the speed I had set.
The infotainment system is quick, intuitive, and finally feels like it belongs in a modern vehicle. There is no lag, no frustration with the infotainment system. It’s intuitive with an emphasis on usability. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Google built-in for navigation and voice control.
Fuel economy is decent, considering how much personality there is to the powertrain. It has an EPA rating of 20 mpg/city and 24 mpg/highway.
Base price for the RS trim is $57,400 which is on the higher end for a non-luxury SUV in this segment. My tester’s final price tag was $61,390.
The 2026 Chevy Traverse RS feels like a reset button for the nameplate. And it was much needed. This new Traverse keeps everything that average consumer likes such as space, comfort and practicality, but then pours on performance and technology. Who says a family vehicle has to be dull? Chevy agrees and offers this version of the Traverse. It handles the daily grind but doesn’t feel like a compromise when you’re behind the wheel.
Jimmy Dinsmore is a syndicated, freelance automotive journalist. Email him at jimmydinsmore73@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @driversside
2026 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD
Price/As tested price………………… $57,400/$61,390
Mileage…………………………………… 20 mpg/city; 24 mpg/hwy
Engine……………………………………… 2.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged
Horsepower………………………………. 328 hp/326 lbs./ft.
Transmission…………………………….. 8-speed automatic
Drive Wheels…………………………….. All-wheel drive
Final Assembly Point…………………. Lansing, MI
