2012 Chevrolet Traverse: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is mostly a carryover, with standard Bluetooth on LT models as the main change. The powertrain, styling, safety equipment, and basic trim structure remain largely the same.
About the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
1st generation (2009-2017), fourth model year and last year before the 2013 refresh.
Chevrolet positioned the Traverse as a family-first three-row crossover for shoppers who wanted minivan-like passenger and cargo space in an SUV shape. The big draws were adult-friendly room in all three rows, strong cargo capacity behind the third row, a smooth V6, and carlike driving manners compared with truck-based SUVs. In Chevrolet’s own marketing, the Traverse is about keeping large families comfortable, connected, and easy to load without moving up to a full-size SUV.
The LS is the straightforward family version, with eight-passenger seating, a V6, and separate rear climate controls. The LT adds conveniences such as a power driver’s seat and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the seven-passenger LTZ brings second-row captain’s chairs, leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, Bose audio, and a power liftgate.
What changed, by category
2012 Chevrolet Traverse specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/Shft Ctrl | Auto, 6-Spd w/Shft Ctrl | Auto, 6-Spd w/Shft Ctrl |
| 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 | 5200 lb | 5200 lb | 5200 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 | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 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 | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse compared with 2011?
Standard Bluetooth on LT models is the main change for 2012. Otherwise, the Traverse largely carries over with the same trim structure, V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and overall design.
Was the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse redesigned?
No, the 2012 Traverse was not redesigned. It is the fourth model year of the first generation and the final model year before the 2013 refresh.
Did the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse get a new engine or transmission?
No, the powertrain carries over for 2012. The Traverse retains its 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission.
Is Bluetooth standard on the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
Yes, Bluetooth hands-free calling is standard on 2012 LT models. It was optional on the 2011 LT.
Which 2012 Chevrolet Traverse trim has seven-passenger seating?
The 2012 Traverse LTZ has seven-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs. The LS uses split-folding bench seats and accommodates eight passengers.