20 MPG combined is the reality for the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD with the 3.6L V6. While not the best in its class, this figure is acceptable for families who require what the Traverse offers: seating for up to eight, plenty of cargo space, and the added security of all-wheel drive. People buy it for its versatility and dependability, not for excellent fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD at 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. This difference highlights what the Traverse does well and not so well. The 17 MPG city figure reflects the fuel needed to haul a large, heavy vehicle through stop-and-go traffic. The 25 MPG highway rating is more acceptable. The smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission helps the V6 settle into a relaxed cruise, maximizing efficiency at steady speeds. However, frequent passing or uphill climbs will quickly lower that highway average.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD is estimated to be $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (more city versus highway), and local fuel prices. Expect your annual fuel bill to exceed $2,200 if you primarily drive short distances in congested areas. Lots of highway miles may drop the cost below that mark.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary a lot. Owners of the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD often report figures that are close to the EPA combined rating, but many factors influence these numbers. Aggressive acceleration and frequent short trips will negatively impact fuel economy. Gentle driving, consistent highway speeds, and attentive maintenance can help you achieve or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. The vehicle’s overall weight is important, so avoid carrying unnecessary cargo to maximize fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD is in the middle of its competitive set. The Honda Pilot AWD, for example, gets slightly better fuel economy at 22 MPG combined. The Toyota Highlander AWD, another popular choice, also nets 22 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer, depending on the engine, can range from significantly worse to marginally better. The base Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine manages 23 MPG combined, while the more powerful V6 trims fare much worse. For buyers considering a three-row SUV, these small differences in MPG can add up over the long run, but often aren’t the deciding factor. Capability, reliability, and available features often weigh more in the decision-making process. You can find all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Maintain your Traverse carefully. Regular oil changes, properly inflated tires, and a clean air filter all contribute to optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. The 3.6L V6 is a strong engine, and it needs proper care to deliver its best MPG.

Anticipate traffic and avoid aggressive driving. The Traverse is a large vehicle, and sudden acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Maintain a steady speed, look ahead, and allow plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Doing so minimizes unnecessary deceleration and subsequent re-acceleration, which impacts fuel usage.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and easily, so you won’t sacrifice any performance. This is especially important in urban environments.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which optimizes fuel efficiency. This feature allows the 9-speed transmission to settle into its most efficient gear and helps prevent speed fluctuations that can lower your MPG. Be mindful of terrain, however, as cruise control can sometimes downshift aggressively on steep hills, negating its benefits.

Carefully choose your trim. Consider whether you really need AWD. The front-wheel drive version of the Traverse will offer slightly better fuel economy if you live in an area with mild winters. Explore TRAVERSE MPG across all years to find out if another version would suit you better.