The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is the maker's latest attempt at full-size crossover innovation. Featuring room for up to eight passengers, impressive fuel economy, and a great number of standard features, the Traverse could easily set sales records for the manufacturer. Families will appreciate the wealth of safety features, while individual buyers will value the crossover's versatility. Also, with eight trim levels available, every buyer can find exactly what he or she needs in the Chevrolet Traverse.

Under the hood, the Traverse is equipped with a standard 3.6L V6 that generates up to 281 horsepower. Unfortunately, only one other engine level is available, and the displacement stays the same, while the engine simply gets a seven-horse boost. Also, only one transmission is available - an electronically controlled six-speed automatic with overdrive and tap-shift manual controls. The tap-shift manual controls allow drivers to manually shift the vehicle for greater control. Anti-lock brakes, ride and handling suspension, and Stabilitrak are all standard as well.

The exterior blends the stylishness of a crossover with the durability of an SUV. The standard 17-inch steel wheels can be upgraded to 20-inch machined aluminum. Ultrasonic rear parking assist is available on the higher trims. This feature alerts drivers when an object is blocking their reverse driving path, which is a necessary addition because rear vision is limited by a raised rear window. Also, standard on the 2LT and LTZ trims is a power liftgate, and all trims receive daytime running headlamps.

Inside, buyers get airbag protection for all eight passengers, a premium audio system with MP3 compatibility, optional rear DVD entertainment system, power programmable door locks, and cruise control. Standard on the highest trim is a rearview camera, further enabling drivers to see what is located behind the Traverse.

With 17 city MPG and 24 highway MPG the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse gets moderate fuel economy; however, those that are seeking a truly eco-friendly and fuel efficient crossover might want to take a look at the selection of hybrid models on the market. Intro priced at $28,990, the Chevrolet Traverse is reasonable, but many buyers might expect more options and standard features for the cost. The 2009 Traverse is a great alternative to the typical full-size SUV like the Ford Expedition or crossover, but its exterior is too ordinary to give it too much of a leg up on the competition. Also, with only a small difference between the base and upgraded engine levels, buyers might opt for a crossover with more choices.