20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but consider the mission of the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse AWD with its 3.6L V6: hauling kids, cargo, and the occasional boat through snowstorms. It’s a big, comfortable SUV designed for families who prioritize space and capability over fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its economy. It’s bought for its practicality, and its fuel consumption is a trade-off most owners willingly accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse AWD place city driving at 17 MPG and highway cruising at 25 MPG. The lower city figure reflects the energy-intensive nature of stop-and-go traffic, where the Traverse’s sizable mass requires more fuel to accelerate from a standstill. The 25 MPG highway rating is achievable thanks to the nine-speed automatic transmission which allows the engine to operate at lower, more efficient RPMs at higher speeds. Keep in mind that a loaded Traverse, especially with a roof rack or while towing, will see highway MPG numbers dip noticeably.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse AWD at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and current gasoline prices. Expect to exceed that $2,200 figure if you primarily drive in the city or frequently tow. Drivers with longer commutes and more highway miles may find themselves spending less. Understanding how the EPA calculates this figure provides a baseline, but individual results will always vary.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can differ. Traverse owners commonly report figures close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and consistent use of all-wheel drive, especially in challenging conditions, will negatively impact fuel economy. Careful acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and minimizing idling can help drivers achieve figures closer to the EPA’s highway rating. Check out TRAVERSE MPG across all years for more information.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse’s fuel economy is typical. For example, the Honda Pilot AWD achieves around 19-20 MPG combined, while the Toyota Highlander AWD hovers around 21 MPG. The Ford Explorer with its base 2.3L EcoBoost engine manages slightly better, around 23-24 MPG combined in AWD configuration. A notable competitor, the Kia Telluride AWD, mirrors the Traverse’s 20 MPG combined. These differences are often marginal, suggesting that buyers in this segment prioritize other factors like space, features, and price over a few extra miles per gallon. The consideration here is overall cost savings compared to value when considering all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.6L V6 in the Traverse responds well to smooth acceleration. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and allow the engine to gradually build speed. A more deliberate driving style will reduce fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.

Regularly check tire pressure and ensure tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to lower overall fuel economy. This is especially useful in urban environments.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the vehicle that are not essential, especially heavy objects. Extra weight adds to the energy required to accelerate and maintain speed, impacting fuel consumption.

Plan routes strategically to avoid congested areas and minimize stop-and-go traffic. Using navigation apps to identify alternative routes can often save fuel, even if the distance traveled is slightly longer.