Traverse RS Review
When Chevy debuted Rally Sport in the 1960’s it was an appearance package. A Camaro SS could be ordered with the RS package, making it a Camaro SS/RS. The original RS package included hidden headlights, with vacuum activated covers that would slide out of the way when the headlights were turned on, unique tail lights, RS badging and bright trim, but no performance upgrades.
2022 Traverse RS Highlights
Things take a different route for the 2022 Traverse RS. Instead of hidden headlights, there are LED lights low in the bumper with running lights up high. In place of bright trim, there is dark trim with dark wheels and a dark grill. However, like the original, it retains the RS badges.
Inside, the Traverse RS is very nicely appointed. There is red stitching throughout, and a red RS badge on the shifter. Leather seats and second row captain’s chairs are standard. In fact our tester only had three options, the rest of the features were standard. One of our favorite features is a hidden cubby behind the infotainment screen. Hit a button and the screen raises out of the way, revealing a large storage space.
One drivetrain note is the lack of the dual clutch rear differential that is standard on the Blazer RS. The Traverse Premiere had this differential in years past, but it has since been dropped from the lineup. We would love to see GM bring that feature back to the Traverse for improved on and off-road fun.
Video Review
Pricing
The 2022 Traverse RS AWD has a base price of $46,200. Our tester was equipped with three options, the Dual Sky sunroof for $1,500, the Trailering Equipment package for $650, and the Cherry Red Tintcoat for $495. Adding in the destination charge of $1,195 brings the total MSRP to $50,040.
Conclusion
In conclusion the 2022 Traverse RS is a great family hauler for those who don’t go very far off-pavement and don’t need to tow more than a few thousand pounds. It has the interior volume of a Tahoe, but better fuel mileage. Competitors include the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Highlander.
Matthew Barnes is an experienced towing expert. He works as a mechanical engineer and his day job involves testing a variety of vehicles while towing trailers of all types and sizes. Matt shares his knowledge by writing for automotive news outlets in the evenings. When he’s not working he can be found spending time in the great outdoors with his family. He enjoys camping, hiking, canyoneering, and backpacking. Whenever possible he spends time riding in or on any power sports vehicle he can find and claims he can drive anything with a motor, which probably isn’t true.
Matt lives in the Utah mountains and often posts cool off-roading videos to his Instagram and YouTube channel.