2009 Chevrolet Traverse Review

The Traverse shares its architecture with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook, and they're all based on GM's Lambda platform.

Though large, the Traverse trades the bold and upright looks of traditional truck-based SUVs for a softer, sleeker, more modern look.

Up front, the Traverse features an attractive version of Chevrolet's split grille. The headlights start next to the grille and wrap around the front fenders. Horizontal fog lights mirror the headlights about six inches lower. A black air dam below the grille gives the front end a dark lower face. A peak at the center of the hood continues down through the grille and fascia, adding a touch of character.

From the side, the Traverse appears to have short overhangs for an SUV. The window line rises to the rear and that angle increases at the rear windows. A character line is located about a third of the way up each door, and the black front fascia is picked up along the sides by black plastic over the rocker panels. Large wheels and tires keep everything in proportion. Up top, the Traverse has black roof rails and an available two-panel sunroof with a fixed rear panel and an opening front panel.

At the rear, the Traverse features dark tailgate glass that dips down toward the center. The tailgate lifts up and does not have separate opening glass. The center peak from the front is repeated here, as is the black lower fascia treatment. The total design is well thought out, smooth and stylish.