2026 Chevrolet Traverse RS: Specs, Features & Pricing

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse RS combines the space of a three-row family SUV with black exterior trim, 22-inch wheels and a richly equipped cabin. Its standard package includes Super Cruise, a panoramic sunroof, perforated leather-appointed seats and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. These features make the RS the most extensively equipped of the three core Traverse trims.

This guide covers the RS AWD featured in our video, including its engine, seating, safety equipment, towing capability, fuel economy and CAD pricing.

Models available

The 2026 Traverse lineup consists of LT, Z71 and RS, all with standard all-wheel drive. LT provides the core family-oriented equipment, while Z71 adds a twin-clutch AWD system, a distinct suspension specification and all-terrain tires. RS concentrates on styling and a longer list of cabin and technology features.

Seating depends on the configuration. LT offers an available second-row bench for eight passengers. Z71 and RS seat seven. The RS uses a 2-2-3 layout with second-row captain’s chairs, so an eight-seat Traverse specification should not be applied to this trim.

Engine and transmission

Every 2026 Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 328 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 326 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power through the standard AWD system. Chevrolet’s Electronic Precision Shift selector is mounted on the steering column.

The RS badge brings a particular equipment and appearance package; it does not identify a different engine from LT or Z71. There is no V6 or hybrid engine in this lineup. The specified fuel is regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87.

Towing and load limits

The Traverse RS includes the Trailering Package and a maximum towing rating of 5,000 lb, or 2,268 kg. The package contains a factory-installed hitch and cover, heavy-duty cooling, a 220-amp alternator and Hitch Guidance with Hitch View.

The maximum rating remains subject to the owner’s manual and the equipment on the individual vehicle. Passenger weight, luggage, accessories and trailer tongue weight affect the load available for towing. Check the loading label and the trailer’s fully loaded weight rather than using its empty weight. Hitch View helps with alignment, but it does not replace checking the connection, safety chains, wiring and trailer-brake requirements.

Fuel economy

Natural Resources Canada rates the 2026 Traverse AWD at 12.1 L/100 km in city use, 9.9 on the highway and 11.1 combined. These are standardized ratings for the 2.5-litre engine and eight-speed automatic, rather than an individual owner’s measured consumption.

Cold weather, idling, short journeys, additional cargo and towing can raise fuel use. For an estimated annual fuel budget, multiply annual kilometres by 11.1, divide by 100 and then multiply by the expected price of regular gasoline. Treat the result as a planning figure because actual use can differ from the combined rating.

Interior, seating and cargo

The Traverse RS cabin uses Jet Black perforated leather-appointed seating with Torch Red accents. Both front seats have power adjustment, heating and ventilation. The second-row outboard seats are heated, and the flat-bottom steering wheel is heated as well. Driver memory settings and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column help accommodate more than one regular user.

The passenger-side second-row seat incorporates SmartSlide access to the third row. The third-row bench splits 60/40 and folds electrically, allowing part of the row to remain available while creating room for longer items. Tri-zone automatic climate control gives the driver, front passenger and rear occupants separate settings.

Chevrolet lists a maximum cargo volume of 2,764 litres with the rear rows folded, and 1,602 litres behind the second row. Those larger figures require some seats to be out of use, so assess luggage space with all seven seating positions available if that is your normal family configuration. A compact spare tire and jack are included.

The standard panoramic power sunroof spans the front and rear seating areas and has a power sunshade. An AutoSense power liftgate can open when the key fob remains near the rear of the vehicle. Power-folding heated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and a heated wiper park add convenience for changing weather.

Infotainment and connectivity

A 17.7-inch touchscreen is paired with an 11-inch Driver Information Centre. Google built-in compatibility provides navigation capability, connected apps and voice assistance, subject to the applicable service plan and account requirements. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support compatible phones.

The RS includes a Bose premium system with 12 speakers, wireless phone charging, USB connections and a 120-volt power outlet. Wi-Fi hotspot capability and connected services depend on the selected plan. Trial subscriptions should be distinguished from features that remain available without a paid service.

The Rear Camera Mirror can display a camera view rather than the conventional reflection, which can be useful when passengers or luggage obstruct the rear window. HD Surround Vision provides selectable views around the vehicle, and a backup key card supports entry and starting as described in the owner’s manual.

Safety features and Super Cruise

Standard RS equipment includes Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Reverse Automatic Braking. It also includes Blind Zone Steering Assist, Enhanced Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, adaptive cruise control, Forward Collision Alert and a Following Distance Indicator.

Rear Pedestrian Alert, Side Bicyclist Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, HD Surround Vision and Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist are included. Driver Attention Assist monitors for signs of distraction or drowsiness. The Safety Alert Seat can use vibration pulses to communicate certain warnings. Seven airbags, tire-pressure monitoring, child-restraint anchors and Teen Driver functions round out the safety equipment.

Super Cruise is standard as part of the Enhanced Driving Package. Chevrolet lists up to three years of OnStar One with Super Cruise for this configuration. Hands-free assistance operates on compatible roads and requires an active trial or subscription. The driver must remain attentive and ready to take control; this is assistance technology rather than autonomous operation.

Pricing in CAD

The Ontario configurator lists a standard RS vehicle price of $67,799. The Sterling Grey Metallic configuration with the standard wheels and interior adds $2,400 freight, $100 air-conditioning charge, $699 dealer fees, $22 OMVIC and $22.50 tire handling fees. Its displayed total is $71,042.50 before HST and additional options.

The same configurator lists starting totals of approximately $55,043 for LT AWD and $62,143 for Z71 AWD. Those totals include the displayed delivery charges and fees and should not be compared directly with a bare vehicle price. Paint, accessories, dealer charges and changing offers can affect a final quotation.

Competition

The GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander are relevant three-row alternatives. Compare the particular trim, passenger count, cargo space with all rows occupied and final price after fees.

The Traverse RS brings many desirable features together as standard equipment, especially its large display, Bose audio, surround-view cameras and Super Cruise package. Buyers who need eight seats should compare the LT bench-seat configuration instead. Those prioritizing fuel consumption should include available hybrid alternatives in their comparison, while checking towing and cargo specifications independently.

Explore our other SUV reviews to compare equipment and specifications.

Frequently asked questions

Can the 2026 Traverse RS seat eight?

The RS has seven seats with second-row captain’s chairs. The eight-seat configuration available elsewhere in the Traverse lineup should not be assumed to apply to the RS.

Does the Traverse RS have more power than other Traverse trims?

The RS uses the same 328-hp, 326-lb-ft 2.5-litre turbocharged engine as the other 2026 Traverse trims. The RS badge identifies its styling and equipment package rather than a separate engine.

Is the Trailering Package included on the Traverse RS?

Yes. It includes a factory hitch, heavy-duty cooling and Hitch Guidance with Hitch View. The maximum tow rating is 5,000 lb when properly equipped and loaded within the vehicle’s limits.