21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse FWD with its 3.6L V6, it’s an acceptable figure. That’s because the Traverse isn’t about squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel. It’s about hauling kids, dogs, and gear across town or across the country with minimal drama. Buyers in this segment prioritize space, comfort, and dependability, and they’re willing to live with middling fuel economy as the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The Traverse’s EPA estimates break down to 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic where the large SUV’s weight and less efficient engine operation take their toll. Stoplights, school zones, and the constant need to accelerate and decelerate will predictably drag down fuel consumption. The 27 MPG highway rating is where the Traverse performs well. Its 9-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its sweet spot for efficiency at cruising speeds. Long road trips are where families appreciate the Traverse’s comfortable ride and generous cargo space, and the highway MPG figure means fewer stops at the pump than you might expect.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse FWD at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the fluctuating price of gasoline. This $2,100 estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Traverse’s fuel expenses to other vehicles in its class. Checking all Chevrolet fuel economy data before buying could make a big impact on long-term expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a consistent benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, heavy cargo loads, and even something as simple as tire pressure can impact your MPG. Expect slightly lower fuel economy if you frequently encounter heavy traffic or live in an area with steep hills. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent highway speeds may see numbers closer to or even exceeding the EPA estimates. Keeping detailed fuel logs can provide a more accurate picture of your personal fuel consumption and help you identify areas for improvement. Don’t overestimate what you think you might get; a close look at TRAVERSE MPG across all years shows considerable consistency.

How it compares

The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of its competitive set. The Honda Pilot, with its 3.5L V6, achieves a similar 20 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Toyota Highlander, particularly the hybrid variant, offers significantly better fuel economy, with the Highlander Hybrid LE netting around 36 MPG combined. The Highlander Hybrid prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright power. The Ford Explorer, depending on the engine choice (the 2.3L EcoBoost or the 3.0L EcoBoost), can range from slightly better to slightly worse than the Traverse’s fuel economy. The Kia Telluride mirrors the Traverse’s fuel economy fairly closely. The buyer choosing the Traverse is likely prioritizing interior volume and passenger comfort over every last mile per gallon, making the fuel economy trade-off acceptable compared to alternatives that might offer only incremental MPG improvements. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L, despite offering more rugged off-road capability, lags behind the Traverse in fuel economy with around 19 MPG combined.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Traverse might not be a fuel sipper, there are strategies to improve your MPG. Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal, especially from a standstill. The V6 engine is responsive, but it consumes more fuel when you demand rapid acceleration. Let the 9-speed transmission do its job, shifting smoothly through the gears.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Clearing out extra cargo can significantly impact fuel economy. The Traverse offers ample cargo space, but hauling around items you don’t need contributes to reduced MPG. A few hundred pounds of unneeded gear takes a surprising toll, especially during city driving.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding rush hour traffic can save you time and fuel. Stop-and-go driving consumes more fuel. Use navigation apps to identify the most efficient routes, even if it means adding a few miles to your trip. The steady pace of highway driving almost always costs less in fuel.