2026 Chevrolet Traverse Trims, Features & Specs | Rio Vista Chevrolet Buellton

May 15, 2026

2026 Chevrolet Traverse SUV at Rio Vista Chevrolet in Buellton, CA

Introduction

If you’ve been searching for a three-row SUV that handles everything from school pickups to weekend trips through the Santa Ynez Valley, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse deserves a serious look. This generation of the Traverse is a significant step forward — a new turbocharged engine, a best-in-class 17.7-inch touchscreen, and four distinct trims that cover everything from family value to off-road capability.

At Rio Vista Chevrolet in Buellton, we have the 2026 Traverse in stock and are happy to help drivers from Solvang, Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Santa Barbara find the right configuration. Here’s everything you need to know.

What’s New for 2026

The 2026 Traverse carries forward the major redesign introduced in the previous generation, with refinements across technology, safety, and capability. The most significant change under the hood is the move to a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque — more power and better efficiency than the old V6 it replaced. All models pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, every 2026 Traverse comes standard with the impressive 17.7-inch diagonal touchscreen — one of the largest in its class — featuring Google built-in, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. An 11-inch Driver Information Center keeps key data in your sightline.

2026 Traverse Trim Levels

LT — Starting Around $40,800

The LT is the entry point and the most popular trim for a reason. It comes loaded with the 17.7-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, a panoramic dual-glass sunroof (available), and seating for up to eight with an available second-row bench seat. AWD is available on the LT for an additional cost.

Best for: Families who want maximum space and modern technology without moving into premium pricing.

Z71 — Starting Around $48,900 (AWD Standard)

The Z71 is the outdoors-oriented trim. It comes standard with AWD — specifically an advanced Twin-Clutch AWD system with an auto-locking rear differential that distributes torque independently to each rear wheel. Add underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires on 18-inch black machine-finished wheels, tow hooks, and off-road-tuned suspension, and you have a Traverse that’s genuinely capable when the pavement ends.

For Santa Ynez Valley drivers who spend time on dirt roads, ranch property, or heading up to Big Bear or the Sierras, the Z71 is worth the upgrade.

Best for: Drivers who want off-road capability without giving up three-row family practicality.

RS — Starting Around $55,400

The RS takes the Traverse in a sportier, blacked-out direction. Think 22-inch high-gloss black alloy wheels, a black grille, RS badging throughout, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. The RS also includes the Enhanced Driving Package with Super Cruise — GM’s hands-free driver assistance technology that works on over 585,000 miles of compatible roads.

Best for: Drivers who want a bold, modern aesthetic and premium tech features.

High Country — Starting Around $55,100

The High Country is the range-topper, blending capability with executive-level comfort. It comes with Super Cruise standard, power-folding third-row seating, one-touch fold second-row seats, and 22-inch high-gloss black machined-face aluminum wheels. It seats seven with standard captain’s chairs in the second row.

Best for: Buyers who want the most luxurious, fully-equipped Traverse with every available comfort and tech feature.

Key Specs at a Glance

Spec	All Trims
Engine	2.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower	328 hp
Torque	326 lb-ft
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Fuel Economy	20 city / 24 highway MPG
Max Towing	5,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
Seating	7 (captain’s chairs) or 8 (LT bench)
Touchscreen	17.7-inch diagonal display

Why Buy Your 2026 Traverse at Rio Vista Chevrolet?

Rio Vista Chevrolet has been family-owned and operated in Buellton since 1991 — serving drivers throughout the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Maria, Lompoc, and the greater Santa Barbara area for over 35 years. We offer no-markup pricing on all new Chevrolet models and free delivery anywhere in California.

Whether you’re coming in from Solvang down the road or making the drive from Santa Barbara, our team is here to help you find the right Traverse for your family without pressure or games.

Browse our current 2026 Traverse inventory →

Or give us a call at 805-691-7447 or stop in at 390 E Highway 246, Buellton, CA 93427.

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