The 2016 Chevrolet Suburban vs. the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse

Chevrolet is great at offering options for all drivers, regardless of budget. The 2016 Chevrolet Suburban loads a lot into a big package, and as a result it has an MSRP ranging from $49,700 to $67,440. The smaller 2016 Chevrolet Traverse offers a little less but has a more accessible MSRP ranging from $28,700 to $42,145.

If you plan on hauling a boat or trailer or driving loaded down with gear, you’ll want to make sure that you have power to spare. The high-performance 2016 Chevy Suburban comes equipped with a 5.3L V8 engine that produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-seed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but you can also opt for a four-wheel drive configuration.

Towing capacity on most Suburban SUVs is 6300 pounds, but with the Max Trailering package installed extends to up to 8300 pounds. It takes around 7.3 seconds for this model to move from zero to 60 mph, and fuel efficiency is rated as high as an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is not quite as muscular, but still more than capable. Under the hood is a 3.6L V6 that puts out 281 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and the Traverse is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Drivers can tow up to 5200 pounds and can get up to an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

One of the most pronounced differences between these two vehicles is the amount of space each offers for passengers and cargo. The Suburban can comfortably seat between seven and nine passengers thanks to the comfortable 122.4 cubic feet of interior volume. It is just as easy to accommodate cargo using the 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space in back or the max cargo volume of 121.6 cubic feet that the cabin offers with the rear seats folded down.

The Traverse offers a little less space for cargo, but its smaller footprint makes it more agile during city driving and a lot easier to park. It has seating for seven or eight spread across an expansive 150.8 cubic feet of interior space. Dedicated cargo capacity measures 24.4 cubic feet behind the third-row seat, or 116.3 cubic feet overall.

It’s not a stretch to call the 2016 Chevrolet Suburban a luxury SUV. The base trim comes equipped with remote engine start to heat or cool the cabin in advance, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera to navigate tight spaces, tri-zone climate control to keep everyone comfortable, power front seats, an eight-inch touchscreen display that controls Chevy MyLink infotainment features including Apple CarPlay, and a stereo that features both HD and satellite radio. Upper level trims come with an even more expansive list of style, comfort, convenience, and high-tech features.

The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse still offers a lot of features to take advantage of. The base trim offers roof rails to expand carrying capacity, cruise control to make long drives easier, Bluetooth phone connectivity to keep you focused on the road while staying connected on the go, the Onstar telematics system with 4G LTE Wi-Fo hotspot, and a 6.5-inch Chevy MyLink touchscreen interface.

There are a few important considerations to focus on when debating which model to buy. First and foremost is price. The Suburban has a lot to offer, but it sells for $20,000 more than the Traverse. The second is performance. Both models have similar fuel efficiency ratings, but the Suburban offers a lot more horsepower, torque, pulling power, and a truck-based chassis that makes it more capable off-road.

The Traverse’s car-based chassis, however, could sometimes make for a smoother ride. Finally, consider size. The Suburban offers seating for nine and accommodates more cargo, but the Traverse is easier to drive in congested areas.