2013 Chevrolet Traverse at 2012 New York Auto Show

Competes with: Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander Looks like: Somehow more elegant and yet derivative at the same time Drivetrain: 288-hp, 3.6-liter V-6; six-speed automatic transmission   Hits dealerships: TBD For the 2013 model year, the Chevrolet Traverse gets a significant midcycle refresh with a new front and rear end and updated interior. More 2012 New York Auto Show Coverage Up front, the model features a new center grille, bumper, fog lights, hood and slightly reworked fenders. The rear end uses reworked taillamps, a redesigned bumper, a bright bar and license plate cutout in the liftgate. Chevrolet says that the new Traverse "captures the overall character of Chevy's new-car lineup." As far as we're aware, however, this is one of the first vehicles that doesn't feature the brand's signature two-tier grille, which strikes us as odd. Nonetheless, the Traverse, for what it is, actually looks good with the new mug. Like the recently refreshed 2013 GMC Acadia, we could almost be convinced that this was a complete redesign, even though it is most certainly not. In the cabin, the Traverse seems to have gotten the 2013 Acadia treatment. There are soft-touch materials and a new center console design. A new 6.5-inch touch-screen features Chevy's new MyLink multimedia system. The Traverse now features wood accents on the LT and LTZ trims, something previously unavailable. Mechanically, not much has changed on the Traverse. There are new rebound springs and shock valving that are said to offer a more comfortable ride, says Chevy. Safety enhancements include a new front-center airbag, first seen on the 2013 Acadia. A blind spot warning and rear cross traffic system are newly standard on the LTZ model. All Traverse models now come standard with a backup camera, too. For 2013, Traverse is offered in LS, LT and LTZ trims in both front- and all-wheel drive. Pricing has not yet been announced. from KickingTires http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/

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