Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.1/10, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.1/10, while Performance at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.8/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.1/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology comes in at 7.1/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $36,457–$47,005, 15 MPG, seating 8, the Chevrolet Traverse SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.0/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL, but it needs the right buyer. Its reliability and performance scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL ranks #1814 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 26% of the segment. Its 7.1/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $36,457 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $36,079.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Traverse SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the Traverse SL model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 15 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL reliable?
We rate the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL's reliability 6.8/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL worth buying?
It scores 7.1/10 overall, ranking #1814 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 26% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL cost?
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse SL starts at $36,457 and ranges up to $47,005 across trims (MSRP when new). At 15 MPG, expect roughly $3,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Traverse SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Traverse SL years we've rated are 2016 (7.1/10), 2015 (7.1/10), 2019 (7.2/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.8/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Chevrolet Traverse SL
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