2013 Chevrolet Traverse

The first thing that catches your eyes is of course the brand new fascia as Chevrolet has abandoned its signature two-tier grille spilt by a horizontal bar for a less complicated five-point upper grille with thee chromed horizontal slats and a separate two-bar lower grille.

GM says that the 2013 Traverse's "more expressive front end introduces a new face for Chevrolet crossover utilities", which means we will probably be seeing more of the new grille, unless of course, consumer reaction is negative to the change.

The front of the crossover model also features a new powerdome hood, reshaped headlamps, chrome accents around the grille and fog lamps, and sculpted front corners that are similar similar to the 2013 Malibu Sedan.

At the rear end, Chevrolet has redesigned the bumper and the tailgate, which now houses the license plate pocket, while the tail lamps are also new and are inspired by the 'sunglasses' shaped LED units of the Erupean market 2012 Camaro.

Inside, the Traverse continues to offer space for seven passengers in three rows of seats, but Chevrolet says it gains upgraded materials, including soft-touch surfaces on the instrument panel and front door uppers, and improved fit and finish for all interior panels.

In addition, the front seats now feature articulating head restraints, while the new center stack houses a 6.5-inch color touch radio with the available Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system.

The Traverse also debuts the industry’s first front center air bag, which is designed to offer additional restraint to drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes.

For 2013, the Traverse continues with GM's 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 288HP and 270 lb.-ft. of torque (366 Nm) with a dual exhaust, and 281HP and 266 lb.-ft./361 Nm with a single exhaust. However, GM has made some changes to the transmission as well as the suspension to improve ride and handling.

More details are to be announced next week at the New York auto show.