The Chevrolet Traverse offers a versatile and spacious interior, with the trunk capacity serving as a key factor for families and road trip planners. Understanding the exact dimensions and practical limits of this crossover’s cargo area helps owners maximize utility without sacrificing passenger comfort.
Chevy Traverse Trunk Dimensions and Capacity
With the second-row seats folded flat, the Traverse provides up to 86.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, creating a wide surface for loading bulky items like furniture or large coolers. Behind the third row, the trunk measures approximately 16.7 inches in height, 38.6 inches in width, and 34.1 inches in depth, which translates to roughly 37.2 cubic feet of usable space for everyday errands. When the third row is in use, travelers still retain around 16.3 cubic feet behind the last row for groceries, purses, or small duffel bags, ensuring the vehicle remains practical for both large and small trips.
How the Third Row Impacts Available Space
The inclusion of a third row of seating is a major selling point for the Traverse, yet it reduces the depth and height of the trunk opening compared to two-row competitors. With all three rows occupied by adults, the remaining cargo area is best suited for compact objects that slide under the seatbacks or sit on the floor, such as shoe boxes, small pet carriers, or folded bags. Families who regularly switch between passenger and cargo configurations will appreciate the flexibility, even if the absolute numbers are lower than some pure hatchbacks or SUVs without a third row.
Loading and Organizing Tips
Fold the third-row bench seat completely flat using the controls on the rear wall to unlock the full width behind the second row.
Tip the second-row seats forward individually to access items tucked behind them without removing the entire seat cushion.
Use retractable cargo nets or adjustable dividers to keep smaller items from shifting during highway driving.
Measure tall or awkwardly shaped objects before loading to confirm they clear the headliner and roof rails.
Remove floor mats temporarily to gain a few extra inches of vertical space when stacking bulky luggage.
Consider roof-mounted cargo boxes for long journeys, keeping the Traverse’s native trunk space open for passengers on the return trip.
Real-World Use Cases for the Trunk
In day-to-day driving, the trunk behind the third row handles weekly grocery hauls, school sports equipment, and pet supplies without requiring creative packing. Road-trip families who need the third row for kids or guests can still fit several large suitcases on top of the folded second row, provided the items are soft-sided to conform to the seatbacks. Contractors and photographers who use the Traverse as a work vehicle benefit from the flat floor behind the second row, where toolboxes and camera bags sit securely without rolling during short stops.
Comparison with Key Competitors
When stacked against rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Subaru Ascent, the Traverse sits in the middle of the size chart for overall cargo capability. The Pilot and Highlander offer slightly larger maximum volumes when their third rows are folded, while the Traverse distinguishes itself with standard third-row access and a more balanced interior layout. Buyers who prioritize trunk versatility will appreciate that the Traverse maintains usable space even with all rows occupied, whereas some competitors lose nearly all cargo room once the third row is used.
Factors That Can Reduce Available Volume
Bulky front-wheel-drive components and the rear crossmember reduce the absolute maximum depth behind the second row, meaning exceptionally long items may not fit even with seats folded. Roof-mounted accessories like sunshades or bike carriers can lower the internal headroom, forcing passengers to stow items lower in the cabin. Additionally, heavily padded seatbacks, while comfortable on long drives, can slightly encroach on the trunk’s inner dimensions if the second-row position is set too far forward.
