2009 Chevrolet Traverse: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2009 is the Traverse itself: this is the all-new model’s first year. Chevrolet launched it as a roomy three-row crossover for families seeking SUV space without a truck-like driving feel.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
1st generation, first year (2009-2017).
Chevrolet positioned the Traverse as a family-first three-row crossover with generous passenger room, flexible cargo space, and a smoother, quieter driving feel than a traditional truck-based SUV. Its main draw was usable size: adult-friendly third-row space, big cargo capacity, standard V6 power, and easier everyday drivability than larger truck SUVs. In the market, it was Chevrolet’s answer for shoppers cross-shopping minivans and large crossovers but wanting SUV styling.
The LS is the practical starting point, with seating for eight and second- and third-row seats designed to make passenger and cargo use easier. The LT adds everyday conveniences such as rear parking sensors and a power driver seat, while the LTZ brings a 288-hp V6 tune, leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, navigation, a rearview camera, and Bose audio.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Traverse specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shift Control | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shift Control | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shift Control |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | 281 hp | 288 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 266 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4500 lb | 4500 lb | 4500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 116.4 cu-ft | 116.4 cu-ft | 116.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2009 the first year of the Chevrolet Traverse?
Yes. The 2009 Traverse is the model’s first year and the beginning of its first generation.
What engine does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse use?
Every 2009 Traverse uses a direct-injected 3.6-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The LTZ has a 288-hp version of the V6.
Does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse have three rows?
Yes. The 2009 Traverse is a three-row crossover, and the LS seats up to eight people with a sliding and folding second-row bench plus a flat-folding third-row bench.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
The 2009 Traverse was sold in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive forms across its LS, LT, and LTZ range.
What is the difference between the 2009 Traverse LS, LT, and LTZ?
The LS focuses on eight-passenger practicality, the LT adds comfort and parking aids, and the LTZ is the luxury-focused version with more power, leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, navigation, a rearview camera, and Bose audio.