As the flagship of the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse fleet, the LTZ turns a more-than-competent 7-passenger midsize crossover into a veritable pleasure palace of space, comfort and practicality. Just over 116 cubic feet of cargo area distinguishes this top-shelf people-hauler, while 20-inch polished alloy wheels, a roof rack and a rear spoiler adorn its handsome exterior. Creature comforts, meantime, include premium leather upholstery, heated, power-adjustable front seats, second-row captain’s chairs, simulated alloy and leather cabin trim accents, and tri-zone climate control. A universal remote garage door opener, Sun Sensor technology and rear parking sensors also come standard in this top-shelf trim, as do power windows and remote power door locks, reverse-tilt and heated power-adjustable outside mirrors, a power liftgate and memory for driver's settings. Finally, a rear-view camera, cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering round out the more notable standard amenities.
Ten Bose premium speakers blast out tunes from the MP3-capable single-CD player, bolstered by satellite radio and a USB connection, while Bluetooth-integrated OnStar Directions and Connections technology keeps everyone on track and in touch.
For a crossover that has just about everything, the Traverse LTZ still makes room for a number of options. A power sunroof, rear DVD entertainment system and hard-drive-based navigation headline the available goodies in this kingly conveyance, with an available second-row console offered to help with cabin storage, and optional towing equipment ready to pull up to 5,200 pounds of trailer.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine powering the 2012 Traverse LTZ is the same, size-wise, as its lesser siblings. However, under the management of the same 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, this slick six-banger pounds out 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, yet retains the 17 mpg city/24 highway rating of its less powerful version…go figure! Anyhow, the 6-speed automatic again comes with the handy transmission hill holder feature.
The traditional 4-wheel antilock braking system (ABS) combines with traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags and three-row head airbags to garner the 2012 Traverse LTZ its award-winning safety scores. Daytime running lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, OnStar emergency services and alerts, a post-collision safety system and a remote antitheft alarm are also delivered as standard safety equipment.
4 GOOD DEALS
are available with average savings of $1,625 below market price
