2023 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 Off-Road Package: Technical Worth & Pricing
There’s a certain kind of excitement that comes with pulling off the pavement and onto a gravel road, knowing your family SUV is actually built for the adventure ahead. The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 package aims to deliver exactly that feeling.
TL;DR
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 Off-Road Package costs around $1,250 as an option . It includes a 1-inch ride height increase, an aluminum skid plate, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, Hill Descent Control, and a twin-clutch AWD system with unique dampers and a specific Terrain Mode . For outdoor enthusiasts who regularly venture off paved roads, the Z71 package offers genuine capability for the price. However, if you rarely leave the highway, the package’s value may not justify the cost.
Key Takeaways
- Price: The Z71 Off-Road package is listed as a $1,250 option on the 2023 Traverse .
- Hardware Upgrades: It adds about an inch of ground clearance, an aluminum skid plate, all-terrain tires, special dampers, and Hill Descent Control .
- AWD System: A unique twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system is part of the package, designed to send torque to the wheel with the best grip in off-road conditions .
- Powertrain: The 2023 model uses a 3.6L V6 engine, while the redesigned 2024 model (and beyond) uses a new 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder with 315-328 horsepower .
What the Z71 Off-Road Package Includes
The Z71 package was a major addition to the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse lineup, and it brings some serious off-road hardware. Here’s what you get for your money:
Increased Ground Clearance
The Traverse Z71 features a ride height that is over one inch higher than standard models . This extra clearance gives you more room to navigate rocky trails, rutted roads, and uneven terrain without worrying about scraping the underbody.
All-Terrain Tires and Wheels
The package comes with all-terrain tires mounted on exclusive 18-inch wheels . These tires provide better grip on loose surfaces like gravel, dirt, and mud compared to standard all-season tires.
Skid Plate and Tow Hooks
A durable aluminum skid plate protects the front underbody from rocks and debris . The Z71 also features signature red tow hooks at the front, which are both functional for recovery and a visual trademark of the Z71 line .
Twin-Clutch AWD System
The Z71 includes a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system designed specifically for off-road capability . This advanced system can independently direct torque to the wheel with the best traction, which is a huge advantage when you’re on a slippery or uneven surface .
Special Dampers and Terrain Mode
The Z71’s suspension uses unique dampers with hydraulic rebound control to improve off-road capability and handling . A specific Terrain Mode within the driver-selectable drive modes optimizes the throttle, transmission, and AWD response for off-pavement driving .
Hill Descent Control
This feature helps maintain a steady, controlled speed when going down steep hills, letting you focus on steering rather than braking .
Standard Trailering Package
The Z71 also includes a standard trailering package, making it easier to tow your toys to the trailhead .
Pricing and Technical Worth
The Z71 Off-Road Package is listed with an MSRP of $1,250 for the 2023 model year . This represents a reasonable price for the hardware you get.
For the off-road enthusiast who regularly ventures off pavement, the package offers genuine capability. The twin-clutch AWD system, increased ground clearance, and skid plate are functional upgrades that can make a real difference in challenging conditions.
For the family driver who sticks to paved roads, the Z71 package may be more about style than substance. The all-terrain tires and stiffer off-road suspension can result in a slightly firmer ride and increased road noise on the highway compared to standard models.
It’s also worth noting that the Z71 package requires the all-wheel-drive model, which adds roughly $2,000 to the base price and reduces fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive version.
A Note on Model Year Differences
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower .
The redesigned 2024 Traverse, which includes the first-ever Z71 trim, uses an all-new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an estimated 315-328 horsepower . While the Z71 name carried over, the powertrain and some features differ between these model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the 2023 Traverse Z71 Off-Road Package?
The package includes a 1-inch ride height increase, aluminum skid plate, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, twin-clutch AWD system, unique dampers, Hill Descent Control, a standard trailering package, and a specific Terrain Mode .
How much does the Z71 package cost?
The Z71 Off-Road Package is listed as a $1,250 option on the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse .
Is the Z71 package worth the money?
For drivers who regularly venture off paved roads, the Z71 package offers genuine capability and is worth the cost. If you never leave the highway, the package may be more about looks than function.
Does the Z71 have a different engine?
The 2023 Traverse Z71 uses the same 3.6-liter V6 engine as other trims. The redesigned 2024 model introduces a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder .
What is the twin-clutch AWD system?
The twin-clutch AWD system can independently direct torque to the rear wheel with the best traction, improving handling and capability in off-road and slippery conditions .
References
Sources and Further Reading:
- General Motors Media: 2024 Traverse Announcement
- Top Gear: 2023 Traverse Z71 Overview
- Chevrolet Pressroom: Middle East Traverse Launch
- Cars.com: Traverse Model Year Information
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 Off-Road Package brings genuine off-road capability to a family-friendly SUV. For $1,250, you get a package of hardware that can handle more than just a gravel driveway. Whether it’s worth it depends entirely on how you plan to use your SUV.
Would you take your Traverse off the beaten path? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
