Chevrolet's seven-passenger crossover SUV stands out by virtue of its passenger-pleasing personality. A 288-hp, 3.6-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission join to produce strong and smooth acceleration. We found that the ride and handling qualities of this vehicle are among the best in the business, but the Traverse does feel a bit heavy around town. The vehicle is sufficiently roomy and comfortable; access to the third-row seat is made easier by a second-row flip-and-fold function, although only children would be comfortable sitting back there for any length of time. Both rows can fold flat to create a voluminous cargo area, but they don't hide away into the load floor as they do on a minivan.