When buying a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, it can be a bit overwhelming at first, especially given how many different trims there are. To make things a bit easier, we’ll be taking a look at the Z71, and the High Country. Both sit at opposite ends in terms of usage with the Z71 ready to conquer mountains, while the High Country feels like you’re sitting on a cloud.
Key takeaways
- The 2026 Traverse Z71 is adventure ready thanks to its standard tires made to take on mother nature.
- Both Chevy Traverse trims will come with the same engine, so those specs won’t vary from trim to trim, allowing you to pick solely off of features.
- If you want the most comfort and features for you and your family, then you’ll want the Traverse High Country.
Z71
The Z71 sits just below the High Country in the Chevrolet Traverse lineup, and has a starting price of $50,795. While other trims will do their best to blend in, this one does its best to stand out. To do this it comes with high gloss black roof mounted side rails, sporty grille, upper door moldings, and 18-inch machined-face painted aluminum wheels that are wrapped in all terrain tires.
Being that this is a more “rugged” option, it does come with some interior features that help keep the price low, so the exterior features could be beefed up. One of these features is the 6-speaker audio system. While this isn’t the biggest, or the best, it will sound great, and when paired with the 17.7-inch touchscreen that is part of the infotainment system, you’ll be able to enjoy your music with ease.
High Country
For the 2026 Chevy Traverse High Country, luxury is the name of the game. When you first see one in person, the 22-inch high gloss black wheels will catch your eye. These are complemented by all season tires. This trim is also equipped with chrome accents, like the ones for the door handles.
The interior of this trim comes with some creature comforts that will keep you happy, no matter the weather. The first one is the ventilated driver and front passenger seats. When the temperature starts to rise, this makes sure that you’re never too hot, keeping you from feeling like you can’t be in the car for longer than you have to. It also comes with heated seats, which do the same.
Another area where the High Country worked on is the audio system. This one comes with a Bose premium audio system that comes equipped with 12 speakers, allowing you to enjoy your music as it surrounds you.
Moving on to the second row, the High Country comes with bucket seats. This will make sure that they’re sitting comfortable, making you the fun soccer mom to ride with. They also get access to heated seats, making sure that nobody is left out from feeling warm.
Similarities
While it’s easy to think one trim is better than the other, they do have things in common. The first thing they have in common is the 2.5L turbo engine. This comes with an EPA rated 22 MPG combined. Producing 328 horsepower, and 326 lb-ft of torque, and able to tow 5,000-pounds.
As mentioned earlier, the Z71 does come with the same screen as the High Country trim. Both trims do have access to a wireless charger as a standard option. This helps you stay fully charged without needing to remember wires.
What is the best option for you?
Whether you’re drawn to the adventurous Traverse Z71 or the comfortable Traverse High Country, you’ll enjoy a versatile, capable midsize SUV. Stop by Burlington Chevrolet today to see both trims in person. Our team can help you compare features, performance, and pricing so you drive off confident in the 2026 Traverse that’s right for you.