2014 Chevrolet Traverse LS

The Traverse is Chevrolet's three-row family SUV, the one you cross-shop with the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. It drives smoothly and gets up to speed easily, though the transmission can shift a little firmly until you get used to it. Inside, the cabin is roomy with a fold-flat third row and middle seats that slide for easy access, but the third row is best for kids. Standard safety gear includes stability control and multiple airbags, and the backup camera is a big help given the blind spots. Front-wheel drive and cloth seats set the LS apart as the entry point, while the 2LT adds leather and the LTZ gets the bigger engine. The 3.6L V6 makes 281 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, which is enough to move this family hauler without feeling strained, and it returns 19 mpg combined.