2020 Chevrolet Traverse Buyer's Guide: LT vs RS vs Premier & Fair Prices

The Traverse Advantage: Space That Others Can't Match

The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse offers something most three-row crossovers don't: a third row that adults can actually use. At 204.3 inches long, the Traverse is the largest vehicle in its segment—larger than the Explorer, Highlander, and Pilot. This translates to genuine passenger comfort across all three rows.

We analyzed 1,400 listings nationwide to determine fair pricing and common issues. The 2020 model year represents the third year of the second-generation Traverse, with most early-production issues resolved. Current prices reflect 40-50% depreciation from original MSRPs of $35,000-$55,000.

Trim Level Analysis

Chevrolet offered five trim levels in 2020: L, LS, LT, RS, Premier, and High Country. The L is fleet-oriented and rare. Most buyers focus on LT through High Country. All share the same proven 3.6L V6 engine, differing only in features and appearance.

LT Leather: The Smart Choice

The LT with the Leather Package (also called LT Leather) delivers the best value. It includes leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, Bose audio, power liftgate, and remote start—features that genuinely improve daily use. The LT Leather typically costs $2,000-$3,000 less than the RS while offering the same core content.

Look for LT models with the Driver Confidence II Package, which adds automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. These safety features are standard on Premier but optional on LT.

RS: Style Over Substance

The RS adds black exterior accents, black wheels, and a black grille for a sportier appearance. Mechanically, it's identical to the LT Leather. If you love the blacked-out look, the RS commands a $2,000-$3,000 premium. If aesthetics aren't a priority, the LT Leather offers identical functionality at lower cost.

Premier and High Country: Full Luxury

The Premier adds ventilated front seats, second-row captain's chairs standard (optional on LT), hands-free liftgate, and navigation. High Country tops the range with premium leather, chrome accents, head-up display, and rear camera mirror. These trims make sense for buyers who want luxury features but prefer American brands over Lexus or Acura.

Market Pricing Analysis

The 2020 Traverse market offers healthy inventory across all trims. Most vehicles cluster in the $22,000-$30,000 range for LT and RS models with 45,000-75,000 miles. This represents substantial value for families needing maximum interior space.

Price Optimization Strategies

LT FWD: $20,000-$24,000 for 65,000-85,000 miles. Best budget entry point with acceptable feature content. Verify it has leather or heated seats—base LT cloth is less desirable for resale.

LT Leather AWD: $23,000-$27,000 for 55,000-75,000 miles. The value sweet spot combining features, capability, and reasonable pricing.

RS AWD: $25,000-$30,000 for 45,000-65,000 miles. Commands a style premium. Only worth it if you specifically want the blacked-out appearance.

Premier AWD: $27,000-$33,000 for 40,000-60,000 miles. Full luxury features including ventilated seats and captain's chairs. Best choice for comfort-focused buyers.

Reliability Assessment

The 2020 Traverse shows improved reliability over 2018-2019 models as GM resolved early production issues. The 3.6L V6 is fundamentally sound, having powered GM vehicles for over a decade. The 9-speed transmission received software improvements that smooth its operation.

Known Issues and Solutions

9-Speed Transmission: Some owners report hesitation during light acceleration and occasional hard shifts. GM released multiple software calibrations through TSBs that improve behavior. Verify the latest calibration was applied. Post-update, most owners find the transmission acceptable if not exceptional.

Fuel Injector Problems: A minority of Traverses experience fuel injector failures causing misfires and rough running. Symptoms include check engine light and noticeable stumbling. Replacement costs $200-$400 per injector including labor. During test drive, note any hesitation or roughness.

Timing Chain Stretch: At high mileage (typically 120,000+ miles), the timing chain can stretch, causing rattling on cold start and potential timing issues. This isn't a 2020-specific problem but a characteristic of the 3.6L engine across generations. Listen for rattling during cold startup that fades after warming.

Start-Stop System: The automatic start-stop feature can be jerky or slow to restart. Many owners simply disable it using the button on the center stack. This isn't a defect—just a preference issue.

Interior Space Deep Dive

Third Row Legitimacy

The Traverse's third row offers 33.7 inches of legroom—class-leading space that accommodates adults for actual trips, not just emergencies. The seat cushion sits at a reasonable height (unlike some competitors where third-row passengers sit knees-to-chest), and headroom is sufficient for 6-footers.

Cargo Capacity

Behind the third row, the Traverse offers 23 cubic feet—enough for groceries and daily items. Fold the third row for 58 cubic feet, or fold both rear rows for 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The power-folding third row (standard on Premier) makes configuration changes effortless.

Smart Slide Second Row

The Smart Slide second-row seats (standard with captain's chairs) tilt and slide forward even with a child seat installed, maintaining third-row access. This feature is invaluable for families juggling car seats and older children who need independent third-row access.

Ownership Cost Analysis

Annual maintenance averages $550-$700 for routine service. GM's 3.6L V6 uses a timing chain rather than belt, eliminating that major service expense. Spark plugs need replacement around 100,000 miles ($200-$400). Transmission fluid should be changed every 45,000 miles ($150-$250).

Insurance runs $1,100-$1,500 annually depending on location and driver profile. Fuel costs approximately $2,400 at 20 MPG combined and 15,000 annual miles. Total annual ownership cost runs $6,500-$7,500 including depreciation.