Is the Off-Roading Craze Spreading to SUVs like the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71

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Chevrolet is giving the 2024 Traverse off-roading chops with the new Z71 package. Will other SUVs follow suit?

Up until recently, Jeep was the only automaker that stressed the off-road capabilities of its SUVs. Then Ford blasted onto the trails with the Bronco and started to capture some market share. Now, Chevrolet is driving into the segment with an all-wheel drive 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, equipped with the Z71 off-roading package that is in high demand on the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado. Will other automakers follow suit and encourage buyers to hit the trails? Automakers have found that buyers are willing to spend extra to take their trucks to the next level. SUVs are the next logical target for the trails.

“Our new Traverse is designed and engineered to act and look more like an SUV,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Chevrolet. “Led by the all-new Z71, the 2024 Traverse builds on the success of its predecessor and will undoubtedly enable us to be in more customer driveways.”

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71

The Traverse Z71 has been beefed up and lifted to make it more rugged while off-roading. The Z71 model has increased the ground clearance by more than 1-inch, which should give it more stability and better handling when not on the pavement. The special package also includes 18-inch wheels designed exclusively for the Z71 and they are outfitted with all-terrain tires.

Other Z71 Upgrades:

  • The Z71 has a different front fascia designed for improved approach angle, with an aluminum skid plate and signature Z71 red tow hooks
  • Twin-clutch AWD system is designed to optimize traction and handling in off-road driving conditions
  • The Z71 includes upgraded dampers with hydraulic rebound control to improve off-road-capability
  • Specific Terrain Mode within the driver-selectable drive modes
  • Hill Descent Control
  • When properly equipped, 2024 Traverse has a max trailering rating of up to 5,000 pounds

 

 

 

2024 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse has been redesigned and appears more like a beefy SUV than before. It is still a three-row SUV and now features a larger 17.7-inch-diagonal touchscreen.

“The bold exterior of the all-new Traverse helps redefine its role and capability for customers,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Global Chevrolet. “It is as versatile as ever, but with an increased focus on capability that reflects the spirit of its owners.”

While I am writing primarily about the new Z71 trim, it also has three other trim levels, the LS, LT and RS. All of the models have the same all-new 2.5L turbocharged engine. It delivers a GM-estimated 315 horsepower and GM-estimated 317 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering more power than the previous models.

New, Improved Technology in the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The new Traverse also can be equipped with the new Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology, including trailering and automatic lane change capabilities, Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist and Driver Attention Assist. The Traverse also comes with a whole suite of other driver assistance technologies. I would think the Super Cruise would be a popular option with the Z71 package because so many off-roaders trailer either a camper or ATVs.

 

 

All Traverse trims come with an updated Buckle to Drive feature that requires the front-seat passenger, as well as the driver to be buckled before driving. Traverse also features Teen Driver via the MyChevy app. Rear Seat Belt Reminder is also new, which alerts the driver if second or third row passengers have taken off their seat belt. Seat belt use is always important, but even more so while off-roading because of the often bumpy terrain.

 

2024 Traverse Coming Early Next Year

 

The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will be available early 2024. It will be built at GM’s Lansing Delta Township facility in Michigan. Pricing and fuel economy will be announced closer to the start of production.

Chevrolet Photo 

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

 

Follow Mary Conway at @MaryConwayMedia and send her car news tips for future stories.