18 MPG combined might not sound impressive, but it’s the reality if you need the passenger and cargo capacity of the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse FWD 3.6L 6-cyl. This isn’t a vehicle aimed at hypermilers. It is designed to haul kids, sports gear, and vacation luggage, and that mission impacts its fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse FWD with the 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic transmission are 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the strain of stop-and-go driving on a vehicle of this size and weight, while the highway number is more appealing, showcasing decent cruising efficiency once it’s up to speed. A minivan, like the Honda Odyssey, is more aerodynamic and lighter, frequently achieving better highway MPG. The Traverse, with its less slippery profile, uses more gas on long trips, a price many are willing to pay for its perceived SUV toughness and available all-wheel drive (though we’re discussing the FWD model here).

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse FWD is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how much time you spend in demanding conditions like heavy traffic or towing. Drivers who frequently tow will see that $2,450 figure climb rapidly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many 2016 Chevrolet Traverse owners report slightly lower numbers. Expect closer to 13-14 MPG in purely city environments. However, if you do a lot of steady-state highway driving, hitting or even slightly exceeding the 22 MPG estimate is possible. The key takeaway is that driving style and terrain significantly impact the final MPG figure. Driving a large, heavy SUV like the Traverse amplifies the impact.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is worth comparing against its competitors to understand its place in the segment. For example, the front-wheel drive 2016 Honda Pilot was rated at 20 MPG combined, and the Toyota Highlander LE (also front-wheel drive) managed 22 MPG combined according to EPA testing. These differences can add up over time. Buyers who prioritize space and cargo over ultimate frugality might be more focused on features or towing capacity. For access to all Chevrolet fuel economy data, you can browse online. And to see TRAVERSE MPG across all years, FuelEconomyHub has you covered.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are crucial. The 3.6L V6 in the Traverse is responsive, but avoid flooring it from every stoplight. Gradual acceleration helps minimize fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Anticipating traffic flow and coasting to red lights, rather than braking hard at the last second, also contributes to better MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally every couple of weeks, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Proper tire inflation not only improves fuel economy but also enhances handling and tire life.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The heavier your Traverse, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area and back seats. That extra 100 pounds of sports equipment, tools, or unused items adds up over time and negatively impacts fuel economy. Lightening the load is a simple and effective way to improve MPG, especially in stop-and-go driving.

Avoid prolonged idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, contributing to poor fuel economy. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to keep the engine running while waiting. This is particularly relevant during school drop-offs and pick-ups or while waiting in long drive-thru lines.