For families wanting space and comfort without going all the way to a full-size SUV, the chevy traverse suv 2014 is one option worth a close look. Up to eight passengers can be seated, a smooth V6 engine sits under the hood, and safety technology comes included that was ahead of many rivals in this class. Most people researching this model year want to know how it drives, what it costs to own, and how it stacks up against rivals such as the Ford Flex or Mazda CX-9. All of that gets covered here.
Engine, Performance and Fuel Economy
A 3.6-liter V6 powers most 2014 Traverse models, putting out 281 horsepower along with 266 pound-feet of torque. On the top LTZ trim, dual exhaust outlets raise that number to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft. Across every trim, a six-speed automatic handles the shifting, and buyers get to choose between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
In testing, an all-wheel-drive LTZ reached 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, a respectable figure for its size. Fuel economy lands around 19 mpg combined for both drivetrain choices, typical for a V6 crossover weighing close to 5,000 pounds. Around town the engine does its job fine, though it can sound strained under hard acceleration.
Interior Space and Passenger Comfort
Cabin space is really where this SUV earns its reputation. Head and legroom stay generous through the front and second rows, and the third row folds flat without much effort, though it suits kids and smaller adults better than full-size adults on longer trips.
Cargo capacity stands out as a genuine strength:
- 24.4 cubic feet with all three rows in place
- 70.3 cubic feet once the third row is folded
- 116.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down
On higher trims, a 6.5-inch touchscreen runs Chevrolet’s MyLink system, handling audio, phone pairing, and navigation. Clean is how the interface looks, though touch response can lag, and the screen sits a bit low on the dash.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Standard on every 2014 Traverse are a rearview camera, stability control, and side curtain airbags covering all three rows. Also standard is OnStar telematics, bringing automatic crash notification and remote roadside assistance.
Higher trims add more protection. The LTZ includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning as standard, with the last two available as options on the 2LT.
A five-star overall rating from the NHTSA was earned in independent testing, and the IIHS gave it a “Good” score across moderate-overlap frontal, side-impact, and roof-strength tests, putting it among the safer picks in its class that year.
How the Chevy Traverse SUV 2014 Compares to Rival Crossovers
Several competitors offered similar space and similar pricing during this period. Wagon-style looks and a more distinct personality came from the Ford Flex. More athletic handling and a nimbler feel around corners defined the Mazda CX-9. Smaller in size but strong on value, the Hyundai Santa Fe was another option worth considering.
Compared with that group, sheer interior volume is where the Traverse stood apart, along with a ride that stayed comfortable and quiet on the highway, even if it wasn’t the most exciting vehicle to drive.
Is the 2014 Traverse Reliable for Long-Term Ownership?
Mixed but mostly positive is how reliability data comes out for the Traverse. RepairPal gives it a 3.5 out of 5 rating, placing it near the middle among midsize SUVs, with repair costs running slightly above the class average.
Several recalls have touched this model year, covering areas such as:
- Air bag inflators
- Seat belt cable fatigue
- Fuel gauge accuracy
- Transmission shift cable adjusters
Comfort, ride quality, and cargo room tend to get praised in owner feedback, while occasional complaints mention electrical glitches and infotainment lag. Checking the vehicle identification number against NHTSA recall records is a smart step before buying a used unit.
What Trim Level Offers the Best Value?
Three trims were offered: LS, LT, and LTZ, with the LT split into 1LT and 2LT versions. The base LS covers the essentials, including keyless entry, Bluetooth, and a rearview camera. Moving up to 1LT adds alloy wheels, heated mirrors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
MyLink, tri-zone climate control, and heated seats arrive with the 2LT trim, striking a solid balance between price and features. This middle trim was specifically highlighted in a road test featured in Car Magazine, which noted that its blend of comfort upgrades and everyday usability made it a practical pick without paying for the LTZ’s full luxury package.
The LTZ tops the range with leather upholstery, captain’s chairs, and the full suite of driver-assist safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chevy Traverse SUV 2014 a good car?
Strong cargo space, comfortable seating for up to eight, and solid crash-test scores make it a reasonable pick for families who care more about room than outright performance.
How many miles per gallon does the 2014 Traverse get?
Both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive versions return around 19 mpg combined, roughly average for a V6 crossover this size.
How much cargo space does the 2014 Chevy Traverse have?
Cargo room ranges from 24.4 cubic feet with all seats up to 116.3 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded flat.
What engine does the 2014 Chevy Traverse use?
A 3.6-liter V6 powers every trim, producing 281 horsepower on most models and 288 horsepower on the LTZ.
Final Thoughts
For families who value space, safety, and a comfortable ride over outright speed, the chevy traverse suv 2014 still makes a practical option today. Its roomy cabin, strong crash-test scores, and flexible trim lineup keep it worth a look for anyone shopping the used three-row SUV market.
