2023 Chevrolet Traverse AWD System Review: Traction Control vs. Competitors
You’re driving through a sudden downpour, or maybe you’re heading up a snowy mountain pass for a weekend ski trip. In those moments, you’re not thinking about horsepower numbers or cargo space—you’re thinking about whether your SUV can keep you and your family planted firmly on the road.
TL;DR
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse offers a switchable AWD system that lets you toggle between front-wheel drive for better fuel economy and all-wheel drive for enhanced traction when conditions get rough . The High Country trim gets an advanced twin-clutch AWD system that independently directs torque to the wheel with the best grip . While the Traverse’s 310-horsepower V6 gives it a power advantage over competitors like the Honda Pilot (285 hp) and Toyota Highlander (295 hp), critics note the AWD system is less convenient than some rivals because it requires manual activation . Fuel economy takes a hit with AWD—17 city/25 highway vs. 18/27 for FWD .
Breaking Down the Traverse’s AWD System
How It Works: Two Systems, One Goal
Chevrolet actually offers two different AWD setups for the 2023 Traverse, depending on which trim level you choose.
The standard system is a switchable all-wheel drive that lets you change between FWD and AWD operation while you’re driving . Here’s the thing about this setup—in FWD mode, the system actually disengages the AWD components to improve fuel efficiency, which is a thoughtful touch for everyday commuting . When you need extra traction, you just turn the dial to engage AWD.
The Twin-Clutch All-Wheel Drive system is reserved for the High Country trim, and it’s a step up in sophistication . This advanced system can independently direct torque to the wheel with the best traction in poor road conditions, giving you superior control and confidence behind the wheel . Think of it as having a smart co-pilot that figures out which wheel needs power the most and sends it there instantly.
Traction Mode Select
The Traverse also comes with up to four selectable drive modes that adjust performance based on road conditions :
- FWD: Your everyday setting for the best fuel efficiency
- Off-Road (AWD only): Sends more torque to the rear wheels for improved driving on snow, grass, gravel, or loose dirt
- 4×4/AWD or Snow/FWD: Helps provide better control when snow and ice make road conditions slippery
- Tow/Haul: Keeps the Traverse in a lower gear for more torque when you’re pulling a trailer
The Driver Experience
The Traverse’s AWD system, combined with its powerful 3.6-liter V6, delivers confident acceleration and composed handling . Kelley Blue Book describes it as “one of the more muscular midsize SUVs” . The ride is quiet and comfortable, and the stop/start system is so seamless that you might need to glance at the tachometer at a stoplight just to confirm the engine is running .
The engine can get a bit noisy under heavy acceleration, but for most driving situations, it provides “generous reserve power” .
How the Traverse Stacks Up Against Competitors
Power Comparison
The Traverse’s 310-horsepower V6 gives it an edge over many naturally aspirated rivals. Here’s how the power numbers shake out:
| Vehicle | Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Traverse | 3.6L V6 | 310 hp | ~7.3 sec |
| Honda Pilot | 3.5L V6 | 285 hp | ~6.9 sec |
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L Turbo I4 | 300 hp | ~6.8 sec |
| Toyota Highlander | 3.5L V6 | 295 hp | ~7.2 sec |
*Sources: *
The AWD Convenience Question
Here’s where the Traverse gets some criticism. The Car Connection notes that the Traverse has an “inconvenient AWD system” compared to some competitors . The switchable nature means you need to remember to engage it when conditions get rough, rather than having a system that automatically kicks in when needed. If you’re someone who’d rather not think about it, a full-time system might be more your style.
Fuel Economy Trade-Off
Adding AWD comes with a fuel economy penalty :
- FWD: 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- AWD: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
The 2 mpg highway difference is noticeable over time. According to fueleconomy.gov, the annual fuel cost for a 2023 Traverse AWD is about $2,200, compared to roughly $2,100 for the FWD model . Not a massive difference, but worth considering if you drive a lot of highway miles.
Owner Perspectives
One Traverse owner who switched from a Ford Explorer shared their thoughts on the AWD system:
“The AWD is a bit different in that you dial to AWD like an older 4WD vehicle. In some ways that is annoying as it takes an extra step to achieve AWD. However, the vehicle gets better MPG in 2WD and there is less concern having the AWD PTU spinning constantly saving wear and tear” .
This owner also noted being “extremely pleased” with their 2023 Traverse, appreciating the cargo capacity, V6 performance, and comfortable ride .
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2023 Traverse have full-time AWD?
No. The Traverse has a switchable AWD system that lets you toggle between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The High Country trim has an advanced twin-clutch system that directs torque independently to the wheels with the best traction .
How does the Traverse’s AWD compare to the Honda Pilot?
The Traverse has more horsepower (310 vs. 285) and similar fuel economy with AWD (17/25 vs. 19/25). However, some critics find the Traverse’s switchable system less convenient than the Pilot’s full-time setup .
Does AWD affect the Traverse’s towing capacity?
The Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, regardless of whether it’s FWD or AWD .
What drive modes does the Traverse offer?
The Traverse offers FWD, Off-Road (AWD only), 4×4/Snow, and Tow/Haul modes that adjust performance based on road conditions .
Is the Traverse’s AWD system good in snow?
The Traverse’s AWD system, especially with Snow mode engaged, is designed to provide better control on snow and ice. The twin-clutch system on High Country trims offers even more precise torque distribution .
References
Sources and Further Reading:
- U.S. News & World Report: 2023 Traverse Performance
- Chevrolet: 2018 Traverse Catalog (System Details)
- The Car Connection: Traverse vs. Highlander Comparison
- The Car Connection: Traverse vs. Explorer Comparison
- FuelEconomy.gov: Compare Side-by-Side Fuel Economy
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse’s AWD system gives you the flexibility to choose between fuel-efficient front-wheel drive for everyday commuting and all-wheel drive for when the weather turns nasty. It’s not the most convenient system on the market—you’ll need to remember to engage it yourself—but for drivers who appreciate being in control, that’s actually part of the appeal. The twin-clutch system on High Country models adds an extra layer of sophistication that rivals more expensive luxury SUVs.
Have you driven a 2023 Traverse in snow or rain? How did the AWD system perform? Drop your experience in the comments below!
