2026 Chevrolet Traverse: NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings, Price
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse scores well for safety, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick designation compared to 201 other mid-range SUVs. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file, fewer than the 1.7 average for SUVs.
- Starting MSRP
- $40,800 - $57,400
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21-22 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $2,700 - $2,850 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 4 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- $2,250 more over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 9 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,357 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.84
- Brand Origin
- United States
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is a SUV priced from $40,800 to $57,400 with 7 trims. For a vehicle your family depends on, the safety, recall, and long-term cost data below is where the decision starts.
- Fuel cost $592 per year above mid-range SUVs average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick
2026 Chevrolet Traverse at a Glance
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse are high published crash-test results. The main caution is that estimated five-year cost runs high.
- safety
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP. Safest SUVs 2026 →
Cautions in the data
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup still lands about $1,880 above the similar-vehicle average.
- Reliability is not a standout here: RepairPal 3.5/5.
- AAA estimates $13,584 per year in non-fuel costs for the Medium SUV class: insurance $1,873, maintenance $1,817, depreciation $5,074. These are class averages, not specific to this model.
Similar vehicles to compare
How Safe Is the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse?
With both a 5-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS TSP designation, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse has been tested by both NHTSA and IIHS crash test programs. Among SUVs, 82% earned the top NHTSA score. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 18.5%
NHTSA focuses on how the vehicle protects occupants in government-standard crashes. IIHS also evaluates crash avoidance technology and headlight performance, which matter for preventing collisions in the first place.
How Did the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse earned an IIHS TSP. To qualify, a vehicle must score well across all crash test categories and demonstrate effective crash prevention technology. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | A Acceptable |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | A Acceptable |
| Seat Belt Reminders | M Marginal |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | G Good |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize SUVs
Test results are a snapshot from before the vehicle shipped. The recall record tracks what has been discovered since, including any components the manufacturer has agreed to repair at no cost.
Does the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, affecting EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. This is fewer than the 1.7 average for SUVs. Recalls address safety-related defects identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. Repairs for recalled vehicles are free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
1 recall campaign on file with NHTSA.
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Most recent: February 2026
What Do 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 9 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. The average for 2026 SUVs is 9 complaints. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
4 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-03-18
Safety-relevant complaints: At least one complaint includes crash reported. Review individual reports on NHTSA.gov for details.
Most-reported problem areas
- Engine4
- Brakes4
- ADAS / Safety Tech3
- Powertrain2
- Visibility1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle your family depends on daily, fuel cost adds up fast. The EPA data below shows how the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse's efficiency compares to other SUVs in its price range.
What Is the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Fuel Economy?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse achieves up to 22 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,700. That is $592 more per year than the $2,108 average for mid-range SUVs. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 21 to 22 combined MPG depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LT FWD GAS | 22 MPG | 20 | 26 | $2,700 per year |
| LT AWD GAS | 21 MPG | 20 | 24 | $2,850 per year |
| Z71 AWD GAS | 21 MPG | 20 | 24 | $2,850 per year |
| High Country FWD GAS | 22 MPG | 20 | 26 | $2,700 per year |
| RS FWD GAS | 22 MPG | 20 | 26 | $2,700 per year |
| High Country AWD GAS | 21 MPG | 20 | 24 | $2,850 per year |
| RS AWD GAS | 21 MPG | 20 | 24 | $2,850 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $13,500 to $14,250 depending on trim.
Fuel is the cost you plan for. Insurance, maintenance, and depreciation are the costs that surprise you three years in. For a vehicle your family depends on daily, the full ownership picture matters.
What Does the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse ranges from $94,620 to $135,820 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,817 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,873 per year |
| Depreciation | $5,074 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $862 per year |
| Financing | $1,815 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $13,584 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.84 per mile |
For a family vehicle, the trim choice comes down to which safety features, space, and cost level fit your household. The comparison below shows all 7 options side by side.
How Do the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Trims Compare?
With 7 trims priced from $40,800 to $57,400, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offers a range of equipment levels. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. MSRP figures below do not include destination, taxes, or dealer fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LT FWD GAS | $40,800 | 22 MPG | $2,700 per year | FWD | 4,504 lbs | $94,620 |
| LT AWD GAS | $42,800 | 21 MPG | $2,850 per year | AWD | 4,793 lbs | $121,220 |
| Z71 AWD GAS | $48,900 | 21 MPG | $2,850 per year | AWD | 4,793 lbs | $127,320 |
| High Country FWD GAS | $55,100 | 22 MPG | $2,700 per year | FWD | 4,504 lbs | $108,920 |
| RS FWD GAS | $55,400 | 22 MPG | $2,700 per year | FWD | 4,504 lbs | $109,220 |
| High Country AWD GAS | $57,100 | 21 MPG | $2,850 per year | AWD | 4,793 lbs | $135,520 |
| RS AWD GAS | $57,400 | 21 MPG | $2,850 per year | AWD | 4,793 lbs | $135,820 |
The Chevrolet Traverse lineup has contracted from 8 trims in 2024 to 7 trims in 2026. The entry price has increased $3,200 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
added 2025
- High Country (FWD, AWD)
Trims no longer available
last available 2024
- LS (FWD, AWD)
- LS Fleet (FWD)
Price changes since 2024
- Z71 AWD GAS $46,400 (2024) → $48,900 (2026) +$2,500
- RS FWD GAS $54,200 (2024) → $55,400 (2026) +$1,200
- RS AWD GAS $56,200 (2024) → $57,400 (2026) +$1,200
- LT FWD GAS $40,000 (2024) → $40,800 (2026) +$800
- LT AWD GAS $42,000 (2024) → $42,800 (2026) +$800
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS FWD GAS | $37,600 23 MPG | — | — |
| LS Fleet FWD GAS | $38,100 23 MPG | — | — |
| LS AWD GAS | $39,600 21 MPG | — | — |
| LT FWD GAS | $40,000 23 MPG | $40,700 23 MPG | $40,800 22 MPG |
| LT AWD GAS | $42,000 21 MPG | $42,700 21 MPG | $42,800 21 MPG |
| Z71 AWD GAS | $46,400 21 MPG | $47,800 21 MPG | $48,900 21 MPG |
| RS FWD GAS | $54,200 23 MPG | $54,100 23 MPG | $55,400 22 MPG |
| RS AWD GAS | $56,200 21 MPG | $56,100 21 MPG | $57,400 21 MPG |
| High Country FWD GAS | — | $53,800 23 MPG | $55,100 22 MPG |
| High Country AWD GAS | — | $55,800 21 MPG | $57,100 21 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
After comparing trims, the question shifts from 'what does it cost to buy' to 'what does it cost to keep.' RepairPal's reliability data addresses that directly.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse?
RepairPal rates the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse at 3.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, which is about average for mid-range SUVs. RepairPal ratings reflect repair frequency and cost data from a network of certified repair shops. Source: RepairPal.
Third-party reliability data is backward-looking. The Chevrolet warranty below is forward-looking: it defines what is covered and for how long if the vehicle does not live up to expectations.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Come With?
Here is what Chevrolet covers at no cost for the 2026 Traverse. Basic coverage handles most defects. Powertrain coverage protects the engine and transmission for a longer period. Both start from the original purchase date.
| Basic Warranty | 3yr/36k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 1yr/1visit |
What Are the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Specs?
Dimensions, weight, and powertrain details for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. These figures are published by Chevrolet and apply to the base configuration unless noted. Specific trims may differ.
EPA vehicle class: Full-size crossover SUV
| Engine | 2.5L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 328 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 136.9 - 145.7 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $124 - $175 |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 19.4 - 21.7 gal |
| Est. Range per Tank | 456 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| Length | 204.5 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 79.6 in |
| Height | 69.6 - 70.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 121.0 in |
| Curb Weight | 4,504 - 4,793 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse?
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. For a family vehicle, the safety ratings, recall history, and long-term cost data above are the sections that matter most. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2026 Chevrolet Traverse FAQ
Which 2026 Chevrolet Traverse trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 7 available trims, the LT FWD GAS has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $94,620, starting at $40,800 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $135,820. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse competes with 2026 Subaru Ascent, 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and 2026 Tesla Model Y based on price, size, and segment. Each of those vehicles has its own fact sheet with the same EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data shown here. Browse all 2026 SUVs.
What changed on the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 2 new trims were added, 3 trims were dropped, and the entry price increased by $3,200 for the Chevrolet Traverse lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse include about $1,132 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $225 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,357 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Where is Chevrolet based?
Chevrolet's headquarters are in United States. Assembly location varies by model and sometimes by trim. The "Brand Origin" label on this site refers to corporate headquarters, not the factory where your specific vehicle was built. See our United States-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Chevrolet models are available for 2026?
Chevrolet offers multiple models for 2026. Our Chevrolet models page lists every available Chevrolet vehicle with safety ratings, fuel costs, and ownership data.
What is the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse safety rating?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has 1 recall campaign on file. See the safety and recall sections above for the full breakdown, including IIHS results and specific recall details.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.