The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is rated at 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway by the EPA. Most owners see combined fuel economy between 20-21 MPG in everyday driving.
EPA Ratings vs. Real World
EPA estimates don't always match what happens on the road. Here's what the data shows:
| Trim | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS / LT Cloth | 18 | 27 | 21 |
| LT Leather / Premier | 17 | 25 | 20 |
| High Country | 17 | 25 | 20 |
Real world highway testing of a 2026 Traverse Z71 4WD showed 24.7 actual MPG when the onboard computer displayed 27.8 MPG. That's about 3 MPG lower than what the car claimed.
What Affects Your MPG
Your actual fuel economy depends on several factors:
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive models get slightly lower MPG than front-wheel drive
- Driving habits: Highway driving at steady speeds gets better MPG than city stop-and-go
- Load: Carrying passengers and cargo reduces fuel economy
- Maintenance: Properly inflated tires and regular service keep MPG optimal
- Driving conditions: Cold weather and hilly terrain lower fuel economy
What This Costs You
Based on EPA estimates, a 2021 Traverse costs around $164 per month in fuel, compared to $218 for the average SUV. Real world fuel costs will be slightly higher due to actual MPG being lower than EPA ratings.
If you drive 12,000 miles per year at an average of 20 MPG with gas at typical prices, expect to spend roughly $1,800 to $2,100 annually on fuel.