17 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but it’s the price you pay for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse AWD 3.6L 6-cyl’s blend of substantial passenger and cargo space, with all-weather capability. This isn’t a vehicle designed for hypermilers; it’s a reliable family hauler built to shoulder the demands of daily life, from school runs to weekend getaways, often with a full complement of passengers and gear.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse AWD 3.6L 6-cyl reveal a split personality: 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city mileage reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Traverse’s weight and size work against it. The highway figure, while better, is still modest. The six-speed automatic transmission tries to make the most of the V6’s power on the open road, but aerodynamic realities and the demands of powering all four wheels affect fuel economy. This split is particularly important for city dwellers who rarely venture onto the highway; they should anticipate fuel consumption closer to the lower end of the spectrum.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse AWD 3.6L 6-cyl at precisely $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, at the prevailing national average fuel prices when the estimate was calculated. However, fuel prices fluctuate considerably, and individual driving habits vary, making this a benchmark rather than a guarantee. Drivers who rack up more miles, or those who live in areas with higher fuel costs, will naturally see their annual expenditure increase.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized basis for comparison, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly based on individual driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and sustained high speeds will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, smooth, deliberate driving and anticipating traffic flow can help drivers approach the EPA estimates. Load also plays a significant role; a Traverse fully loaded with passengers and cargo will invariably return lower MPG than one carrying only a driver.

How it compares

The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse AWD 3.6L 6-cyl is in a competitive segment. The 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD, for example, offers slightly better economy at 19 MPG combined with its V6 engine, a good option for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency over maximum cargo capacity. The Ford Explorer, another popular choice, delivers similar fuel economy to the Traverse with its available 2.3L EcoBoost engine, returning a combined 20 MPG in FWD configuration (AWD figures are lower). These differences, though seemingly small, can translate to hundreds of dollars in annual fuel savings, making them relevant for budget-conscious families. For shoppers considering domestic rivals, you may also be interested in all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure your 2016 Chevrolet Traverse’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including timely oil changes and air filter replacements, will also help the engine operate at peak efficiency. Poor maintenance habits can significantly reduce the TRAVERSE MPG across all years, so keeping the vehicle in good working order is essential to fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. Avoid idling for extended periods, such as warming up the engine in winter or waiting in parking lots. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to move. Frequent long periods of idling add up and kill fuel economy.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed whenever possible, and anticipate changes in traffic flow to minimize unnecessary deceleration and acceleration. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy, especially on long drives.

Lighten the load. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area, and avoid carrying heavy objects on the roof rack if they’re not needed. Every extra pound contributes to decreased fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving where you’re constantly accelerating and decelerating.