On the road in a 2009 Chevrolet Traverse AWD LTZ

June 23, 7:17 PMAtlanta Autos ExaminerMichael Andre Adams

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MSRP: $41,075

Annual Fuel: $1,925

(15,000 miles @ $2.44 / gallon-regular unleaded)

MPG: 16 city / 23 highway

With recovery underway, GM is stepping up its game with the introduction of new hits like the Traverse.

Out of the gate, Traverse celebrates “Best in Class for Cargo Space,” fuel economy better than any other eight passenger crossover and a 100,000 mile warranty, which is definitely something for an American manufacturer to talk about .

Although not nearly as flashy as Cadillac’s Escalade even though the front grill does hint at the CTS, Traverse LTZ, with its 20-inch polished rims, is definitely worth taking a good look! And the features are amazing… I’m talking remote vehicle start, ultrasonic parking assist for those who can’t parallel park, a well lit rearview camera system, a power liftgate/tailgate and chrome tips on the dual exhaust pipes for exterior highlights at minimum.

Interior highlights include an available dual skyscape sunroof (add $1,400) so that everyone shares in the sun and moon, perforated leather trim seats with heat and cool features for the powered front row, a second row of captain’s chairs with smart slide for easy access to the third row split bench--with each row having its own climate control. GM’s touch screen navigation offers automatic traffic updates with the option to re-route in recognition of upcoming traffic delays whereby allowing the driver to multitask without missing a beat! And with GM’s Onstar directions (complimentary for the first year, subscription based thereafter) you will receive turn-by-turn directions spoken. Of course there’s an integrated Bluetooth system for your phone and a kick butt sound system by Bose to blast your favorite XM station, or music from your iPod. For 2010, let’s hope they’ll include a beverage cooler as does Ford in it’s rival crossover—Flex.

Under the hood you get a 288 horsepower V6 engine in the LTZ trim level, versus a 281 horsepower in the $28,990 entry level LS model and $31,545 midrange LT model, each with a six-speed transmission powered by regular unleaded gas.

With space for seven, or eight, Traverse is way cooler than a minivan for your summer road trip!

For more info: www.chevrolet.com