Shopping for a family SUV on the Mississippi Gulf Coast? The choice between the 2025 and 2026 Chevrolet Traverse might seem confusing at first, but we’ll break down exactly what changed (and what didn’t). Here at Turan-Foley Chevrolet, we see families wrestling with this decision daily.
Here’s the simple truth: both years use identical engines and towing specs. Your choice really comes down to styling updates, specific features you want, and timing that works for your budget. The 2026 builds on everything that made the 2025 solid, adding some visual tweaks and interior improvements without messing with the proven formula.
What’s New in the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse: Key Changes at a Glance
Chevrolet focused on visual refinements rather than mechanical overhauls for 2026. The front end gets a sharper look with updated grille work and headlight designs. You’ll also find fresh exterior colors (Polar White Tricoat and Sandstone Gray among them) plus a redesigned center console that actually makes sense for storing everyday items.
The trim lineup expands too. LT buyers now get Midnight Edition and Sport Edition packages if they want that blacked-out aesthetic. RS trims add a flat-bottom steering wheel, red interior accents, and distinctive 22-inch black wheels. High Country steps up with ventilated perforated leather, chrome and Dark Gray interior details, plus Rainsense wipers. The rugged Z71 continues unchanged with all-terrain tires and skid plates for families who venture off the beaten path.
Technology stays largely consistent. Both years offer the same 17.7-inch touchscreen, Google built-in capabilities, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2026 does expand wireless charging to more trims and bundles a 3-year Super Cruise plan with RS and High Country versions.
Exterior Design Updates and New Color Options
The 2026 keeps the same SUV silhouette but freshens the front fascia noticeably. That updated grille creates a wider, more planted stance. New headlight shapes and revised bumpers sharpen things up without abandoning the family-friendly character people appreciate.
Color options get interesting for 2026. Chevrolet adds four new choices: Polar White Tricoat, Sandstone Gray, Stardust Metallic, and Sterling Gray Metallic. Whether you want light shades that hide Gulf Coast dust or darker finishes that look sharp at the Gulfport marina, both model years provide solid options (though some 2025 colors might disappear).
Wheel designs refresh across the 18-22 inch range depending on your trim. RS and Z71 keep their distinctive sporty and off-road personalities, just with updated patterns that complement the new front-end styling.
Engine and Performance: Powertrain Comparison
Both years use identical powertrains. This removes any mechanical guesswork from your decision since performance stays exactly the same.
| Specification | 2025 & 2026 Traverse |
| Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 328 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD Standard / AWD Available |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs |
That turbocharged 2.5L engine feels eager around town and confident on highway on-ramps. The 328 horsepower gives you plenty for merging onto Highway 49 or passing slower traffic on I-10. Meanwhile, 326 lb-ft of torque arrives early in the rpm range for strong acceleration when you need it.
The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly and knows when to hold gears during towing situations. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available for families wanting extra traction during severe weather or when launching boats at local ramps.
Towing Capacity: 2025 vs 2026 Traverse
Maximum towing stays at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped for both model years. This handles most family boats headed to Ship Island, travel trailers for weekend adventures, or utility trailers loaded with ATVs and fishing gear.
Since the powertrain stays identical, towing performance feels the same regardless of model year. That turbocharged torque helps when pulling loads up highway grades or fighting coastal headwinds. The transmission programming manages heat well in Mississippi humidity, keeping everything smooth even during long drives with trailers attached.
Interior Enhancements and Cabin Comfort
The 2026 model redesigns the center console with better small-item storage. This might sound minor, but it addresses the reality of family vehicles that constantly accumulate phones, keys, sunglasses, and the random stuff that needs a convenient home. Wireless charging expands to more trims, reducing cable clutter.
Three-row seating feels generous in both years, with available power-folding functionality on higher trims. This feature proves its worth when you need to quickly flip seats for beach chairs, coolers, and all the gear that comes with Gulf Coast family life.
Cargo space behind the third row handles weekly grocery runs fine. Fold both rear rows and you’ve got room for furniture or serious vacation luggage. Material quality feels appropriate for the price point in both years, though 2026 adds subtle refinements in high-touch areas.
Tri-zone climate control (when equipped) lets everyone set their preferred temperature. This matters during hot Mississippi summers when air conditioning preferences vary between front passengers, second-row riders, and third-row kids.
Infotainment and Connectivity Upgrades
The core technology package stays consistent between years. That 17.7-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard with sharp graphics and responsive controls. Google built-in provides app access, navigation, and voice commands without plugging in devices, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain for those who prefer their own interfaces.
Higher trims get an optional 11-inch digital instrument cluster replacing traditional gauges. It displays trip data, navigation directions, and vehicle information clearly. USB ports throughout all three rows keep devices charged during drives to Biloxi, Ocean Springs, or Bay Saint Louis.
The available Bose audio system delivers clean sound quality. The Wi-Fi hotspot keeps passengers connected during road trips, while OnStar services provide emergency assistance, roadside help, and connectivity features that add peace of mind.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Comparison
Chevrolet Safety Assist comes standard on both 2025 and 2026 models. This suite includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Zone Steering Assist. These systems provide active protection during daily commutes and family road trips.
HD Surround Vision appears on higher trims for both years, offering bird’s-eye camera views that simplify parking at crowded beach lots or tight shopping centers. The high-definition quality provides clearer images than older camera systems, especially useful during evening drives or in dimly lit parking structures.
Available features for both model years include Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains set distances from vehicles ahead during highway driving, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert for backing out of parking spaces with limited visibility.
RS and High Country trims on the 2026 model include a 3-year Super Cruise plan. This hands-free driving feature works on compatible highways, though you’ll want to test it yourself to see if it fits your driving habits.
Trim Level Lineup: What’s Changed for 2026
Here’s how styling and features compare between years across trim levels:
| Category | 2025 Traverse | 2026 Traverse |
| Exterior appearance | Bold SUV styling with LED lighting and modern profile | Same shape with refreshed front grille, updated headlights and bumpers |
| Wheels | 18-22 inch designs depending on trim | Updated 18-22 inch designs with refreshed patterns |
| Paint colors | Existing palette including popular neutrals | Adds Polar White Tricoat, Sandstone Gray, Stardust Metallic, Sterling Gray Metallic |
| Center console | Standard console storage | Redesigned console with improved small-item storage |
| LT special editions | Standard LT features | Adds Midnight and Sport Edition packages with blacked-out trim |
| RS highlights | Sport appearance with black accents | Adds flat-bottom steering wheel, red interior décor, 22-inch black wheels |
| High Country | Premium materials and comfort features | Adds ventilated perforated leather, chrome/Dark Gray décor, Rainsense wipers |
| Z71 capability | Off-road trim with all-terrain hardware | Continues with all-terrain tires and skid plates for trail capability |
| Wireless charging | Available on select trims | Expanded availability across more trims |
| Super Cruise | Available on RS and High Country | 3-year plan included on RS and High Country |
The LT serves as the volume trim with solid standard features and optional packages. RS targets buyers wanting sporty styling with performance-inspired looks. Z71 appeals to families who enjoy camping, lake houses, or light off-road adventures. High Country provides upscale comfort with premium materials and convenience features.
Pricing Comparison and Value Considerations
Specific prices vary based on trim, options, and current incentives, but we can discuss value positioning between model years.
The 2025 Traverse might offer advantages during closeout periods when dealers make room for 2026 inventory. Manufacturer incentives and dealer discounts can create significant savings on a vehicle that shares the same proven powertrain and most technology features with the newer model.
The 2026 Traverse brings current styling, expanded trim options, and refined interior details. If having the latest look matters to your family, or if specific 2026 features like the Midnight Edition package or High Country’s ventilated seats appeal to you, the newer model provides that freshness.
Either choice delivers identical performance specs, towing capability, and safety features. Your decision focuses on styling preferences, specific feature priorities, and current market opportunities rather than mechanical differences.
Which Traverse Model Year Is Right for Your Family?
Both model years offer capable three-row transportation for Gulf Coast families. The 2026 brings refreshed styling and expanded trim choices, while the 2025 provides proven performance with potential savings opportunities.
Choose the 2026 if you prioritize the latest appearance and want specific features like Midnight Edition styling or High Country’s ventilated seats. Families who see better value in 2025 inventory with current incentives can confidently pick that year knowing the powertrain and core capabilities stay identical.
Schedule Your Test Drive at Turan-Foley Chevrolet
At Turan-Foley Chevrolet in Gulfport, we stock both model years so you can compare them side by side. Our team helps Mississippi families understand the practical differences and find the Traverse that fits your needs and budget. Visit our dealership at 11123 Hwy 49N to experience both versions firsthand, or contact our sales team at 228-604-8836. We’re open Monday through Friday 8am-7pm and Saturday 8am-6pm. Reach out through our contact page to schedule your test drive and discover which Traverse belongs in your driveway.
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