The EPA estimates 21 MPG combined for the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by its 3.6L V6 engine and driving the front wheels. While this isn’t class-leading, it’s acceptable for a vehicle designed to haul families and cargo in comfort and safety. This isn’t built for hypermiling competitions; it’s a workhorse disguised in unassuming sheetmetal, bought by families who want space and understand that moving nearly 4,300 pounds requires energy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2022 Traverse gets 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that most Traverse owners experience daily when taking kids to school and running errands. Some are surprised by the highway number, as the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission helps the V6 settle into a relaxed cruise. Extended highway trips, carefully driven, might even get slightly better than the EPA rating, although headwinds and heavy cargo will erase any gains. Terrain makes a difference too. Owners in flatter states or regions will likely see better MPG than those in hilly or mountainous areas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $2,100 for the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse FWD. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and fuel type. The Traverse doesn’t require premium fuel, but gasoline blends can slightly influence fuel consumption.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who accelerate quickly or carry heavy loads will likely see fuel economy below the EPA estimates. Those with a light foot and primarily highway driving may achieve slightly better results. Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, also helps maintain optimal fuel efficiency. Traverse MPG across all years has been consistent, highlighting the reliable nature of its powertrain.

How it compares

The Traverse’s fuel economy is comparable to its rivals in the three-row SUV segment. The Honda Pilot, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Toyota Highlander, similarly equipped, lands at an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, giving it a slight edge. The Ford Explorer, specifically the base model with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine, has similar numbers to the Traverse. Buyers choose the Traverse because of its generous cargo space or overall value, settling for reasonably efficient fuel economy. To compare the Traverse’s figures against the broader Chevrolet lineup, you can view all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One way to save fuel in the Traverse is to accelerate smoothly. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, as these consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace when you can. The Traverse is not a sports car, and hard acceleration hurts fuel economy.

Check that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. A tire pressure check can make a difference. Don’t overinflate tires, as this hurts ride quality and reduces tire life.

Keep idling time to a minimum. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine because idling consumes fuel without any benefit. This matters during cold weather warm-ups; modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so excessive idling is wasteful. In some states, idling is illegal and can result in a fine.

Reduce extra weight. Removing items that you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools, from the vehicle can reduce fuel consumption. Every pound adds up, and reducing weight can improve fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. Removing the third-row seats if you don’t need them can save a good amount of weight.