The Ultimate LA Family Road Trip: Why the Chevrolet Traverse Is Built for Summer

From the South Bay to San Diego, Big Bear, or the desert, summer in Southern California is made for the family road trip - and the Chevrolet Traverse is made for hauling everyone and everything that comes with it. With three rows of seating for up to eight, a huge cargo hold, a strong turbocharged engine, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing, the redesigned Traverse is one of the most road-trip-ready three-row SUVs you can buy. Here's why it belongs on your summer shortlist.

A great family road trip starts with the right vehicle, and the Chevrolet Traverse checks every box: space, comfort, capability, and the technology to keep everyone happy from the 405 to the trailhead. Let's break down what makes it shine.

The Traverse seats up to eight passengers across three rows, so there's space for the kids, the grandparents, and a friend or two. Choose available second-row captain's chairs for a seven-seat layout with an easy walk-through to the third row - a small thing that makes loading car seats and tired kids far simpler. The third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter hops, which is exactly what you want for a multi-family beach day.

Pack the coolers, the beach gear, the camping setup, and the luggage - the Traverse offers up to roughly 98 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, among the most generous in the three-row class. Even with all three rows up, there's room behind the back seats for a grocery run or a stroller, so you don't have to play luggage Tetris before every trip.

Under the hood, a 328-horsepower turbocharged 2.5L engine (326 lb-ft of torque) gives the Traverse confident passing power for grades like the climb to Big Bear, paired with an eight-speed automatic. When properly equipped, it tows up to 5,000 pounds - enough for a small camper, a couple of jet skis, or a utility trailer. Want to venture off the pavement? The Z71 trim adds rugged styling, an off-road-tuned setup, and a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system with an auto-locking rear differential - great for desert washboard roads and campground access.

Long drives are easy in the Traverse thanks to a roomy, modern cabin with available large dual screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple charging ports, and an available panoramic sunroof. Available Chevrolet Safety Assist driver-assistance features add peace of mind in LA traffic, and available all-wheel drive helps in rain or on loose surfaces. Add genuine Chevrolet accessories - roof carriers, cargo organizers, and towing accessories - to tailor it to your adventures.

From Carson and the South Bay, the Traverse makes quick work of SoCal's best summer destinations: a beach day down in San Diego, a mountain escape to Big Bear, a desert weekend near Joshua Tree, or a classic cruise up the Pacific Coast Highway. Wherever you point it, you've got the space, range between fill-ups, and comfort to make the drive part of the fun.

How many people does the Chevrolet Traverse seat?
Up to eight passengers across three rows, or seven with available second-row captain's chairs and a walk-through to the third row.

How much cargo space does the Traverse have?
Up to roughly 98 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded - among the most spacious in its class - with usable room behind the third row for everyday gear.

How much can the Traverse tow?
Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped - enough for a small trailer, camper, or watercraft. Always follow the Owner's Manual and never exceed the rated capacity.

Which Traverse trim is best for off-road or adventure use?
The Z71, with its off-road-tuned setup, twin-clutch AWD, and auto-locking rear differential. Compare trims on the Traverse inventory page.

Is the Traverse a good family road trip SUV?
Yes - three-row seating for eight, huge cargo capacity, strong turbocharged power, 5,000-lb towing, and modern comfort and safety tech make it well suited for Southern California family travel.

Ready for your best summer road trip yet? Browse new Traverse inventory, check current specials, or value your trade. Chevrolet of Carson is at 2201 E 223rd Street, Carson, CA 90810, serving Los Angeles and the South Bay. Call (424) 266-6389 to schedule a test drive.