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The 2014 Chevrolet Traverse
Large families prefer large crossover and that is not rocket science. The obvious attraction to large crossovers is because they offer plenty of room for the passengers and their belongings and along with that the availability of all wheel drive to get them confidently to their destinations in foul weather conditions. The 2014 Chevy Traverse stands as a sensible choice as it is a spacious, well performing family vehicle that is so not a minivan. Essentially a vehicle that is designed and engineered especially for those who found themselves bewildered at the lack of large family vehicles, 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, while misses on some charm, still manages to grab attention with its looks, features, availability of space comfort and safety.
The design of 2014 Chevrolet Traverse has seen a little change since it was first introduced in 2009. Last year the tall station wagon underwent mini touch ups in the front and rear while it still stands miles away from the GM termed “an athletic new exterior design”. The façade is refreshed in the new Chevrolet Traverse but what is more striking are the Camaro influence tail lamps which break though a factory-farm of same-as crossover design. On the inside, the Traverse is nothing exciting, but it is extremely functional. With last year’s freshening up the SUV sports new wood and silver accents, some contrast stitching and ambient lighting. Other add-ons from the last year also include the reconfigured climate control and more soft-touch materials.
Although the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse isn’t as quick or as agile as a sports utility vehicle since it isn’t, but it is quick enough for a family vehicle. At about a massive 5,000 pounds the Chevy Traverse is one heavy vehicle and it does little from behind the wheel to mask that. Running on a smooth 3.6 liter direct injection V6 engine the monster produces 288 horsepower and 270 pond feet of twist. Engineered for more confident passing power and quicker shifts, the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse still is a combination that needs to work hard up highway grades or from a standing start. That aid, the beast can tow up to 5,200 pounds which is impressive and highly functional. The vehicle comes with a choice in the front wheel drive or all wheel drive configurations, however, the AWD versions are a little more sluggish.
For those who bid their goodbyes to their minivans and decided not to bow down to that image again, the Chevrolet Traverse still remains one of the most spacious, passenger friendly vehicles on the market. Since the primary mission of the Traverse is people moving the GM has made the most of the seating space in the vehicle. The safety features in the Traverse impress greatly. But the exterior of the Traverse disappoints with a blander look than earlier. Moreover, the great market of large crossovers offer SUVs like the 2014 Ford Flex, the Mazda CX-9 and though a little bit smaller but excellent, the Hyundai Santa Fe. Still, with its handsome styling, huge cabin and impressive day-to-day functionality, the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse stands firm in its position in the current population of the family-friendly crossovers.
Boxy, Yet Amazing…the New 2014 Ford Flex
With the square and flat, solid face that it carries, Ford Flex 2014 can certainly not just be titled as a family car housing 7 passengers, reminding of the old school station wagons dating back to 1960s and 70s showing off a silken look sleeker than other SUVs. The Flex is a one of its kind innovation. Compared to its competitions in the market namely Chevrolet Tahoe, Honda Pilot etc. focuses over ride quality than off-roading capabilities.
With a seating configuration of 2-3-2 the Flex is aimed pin-pointed at people, until the rear seats are folded and its directions alter to cargo, but not being built upon solid body-on-frame chassis, the Flex is dissimilar to a van. Initially called a Crossover Utility Vehicle by Ford, it has now been decided to be called just a Utility Vehicle rather, the entitlement being unclear. The Flex could be really called a modern version of the old American station wagon clan. It would best be called a crossbreed between a limo and a taxi, not well suited for heavy off-road business. The 2014 Flex received minor tweaks in this year’s model, after last year’s extensive redesign and mechanical upgrade.
The Flex is packed in a box full of stylish confetti with great riding comfort and long journey pleasures. The shape seems to be just apt for an elegant box, simple and sweet, with sharp edges and a rounded front. It utilizes maximum space and provides large interior space while presenting a bold image. The three screen instrumental panel is easy to use and simple while it is a home to the new MyFord Touch System. The rear compartment refrigerator and voice-controlled Sync Communication system have undoubtedly been the favorites of the show. Forgetting its wide body and long wheelbase, the Flex is good enough to respond to your driving requirements. The ride overall is fairly smooth and it quests very well over tight turns, while the quiet interiors add on to the amenity if offers. The Flex boasts a low ground posture, managed nicely because of the large wheels and taut suspension. The electric power steering often arrests the feel, but works well. Despite of its squared appearance, Flex manages to flow through the air at great speeds. An option of contracting color of the roof and a lift gate adorned in brushed aluminum enhance the looks greatly.
The base 3.5L V-6 engine with a power of 287 horsepower, with a fuel economy of 18 mpg in city and 25 mpg on the highway, provides just enough acceleration while a twin-turbo V-6 EcoBoost engine with a power of 365 horsepower adds a thrill to the ride, though compromising on the fuel economy by 2 mpg . An all-wheel-drive system ensures tight grips on snowy and slippery tracks. A 6-speed automatic transmission is available with both engine variants while options of Front-wheel-drive and All-wheel-drive are available for buyers.
The Ford Flex is a clear winner for somebody looking for roomy interiors and soothing long rides but it certainly cannot double as an SUV or a crossover. Although the package is bundled with latest technology and has offers comfortable, smooth and fast rides it fails to please buyers expecting more from its looks.