

What Are The Different Drive Modes In The 2026 Chevy Traverse?
Do you know your Chevy inside and out? You’re about to. The latest Traverse comes with a long list of drive modes for you to play around with, and knowing what they do and how to use them is key to having the best time in your new ride.
This guide teaches you about every drive mode in the 2026 Chevy Traverse before you go on your test drive at Chevrolet GMC of Mount Vernon. Visit us today for new Chevrolet vehicles near you.
Normal Mode
It’s the mode you start with, and the one you always go back to. As your default drive setting, Normal mode delivers a balanced experience with just the right amount of throttle, handling, and shifting for casual city cruising.
When it’s just an average day, there’s nothing wrong with simply keeping it on Normal.
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Normal mode in the Chevy Traverse is also ideal for freeway traveling around Columbus. |
Sport Mode
Ready to have some fun in Mount Vernon? Activating Sport mode in the 2026 Chevy Traverse tunes your ride’s responsiveness on normal roads for a noticeable boost in handling.
Steering feels more controlled, accelerating feels quicker, and the engine sounds are plenty more satisfying.
Use this mode when you’re looking to add more spice to a boring day in Mount Vernon. Sport mode in the Chevy Traverse makes the world your plaything.
AWD Mode
Yes, the Traverse does well on dirt, thanks to AWD mode. This mode spreads power between all four wheels to prioritize better traction. This is the mode you use during rainy, snowy, or freezing weather in Mount Vernon.
Once AWD mode is deactivated in the 2026 Chevy Traverse, you go back to better fuel efficiency in FWD.
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AWD mode can be set to turn on automatically or be activated manually in the Chevrolet Traverse. The choice is in your hands. |
Snow/Ice Mode
When the icy roads are much too slick in Mount Vernon, that’s when you hit Snow/Ice mode in the Chevy Traverse for increased traction. This mode adapts your throttle response to grant you better control of the vehicle in intense situations.
Accelerate without slipping and make more grounded turns with Snow/Ice mode activated in the Traverse.
Off-Road Mode
You need a different kind of traction for off-roading, and the Traverse has you covered with this next drive mode.
Once you head to your go-to off-road destination outside of Columbus, activating Off-Road mode in the 2026 Chevy Traverse alters much of your powertrain to adapt to uneven surfaces:
- Dirt
- Mud
- Gravel
- Grass
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Chevrolet’s StabiliTrak system is a key component in the Traverse’s success with Off-Road mode. |
Tow/Haul Mode
Anyone in Mount Vernon can use their Chevy Traverse to tow with the dedicated Tow/Haul mode. This drive mode focuses on balancing consistent performance and grounded stability for ideal towing conditions.
When towing in your 2026 Chevy Traverse using Tow/Haul mode, your drive feels more secure with specially-tuned gear shifts, steering, and suspension.
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The 2026 Chevy Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds. |
Terrain Mode
Exclusive to the Chevy Traverse Z71 trim, Terrain mode is for heavy-duty off-roading. Terrain mode differs from Off-Road mode in sporting a unique pedal map and gear shift pattern.
When using Terrain mode outside of Columbus, your Chevy Traverse will have greater traction on extremely rough terrain and when navigating slopes at low speeds. This is possible with automatic vehicle hold on inclines and by applying light braking when needed.
Learn more > Ultimate Trim Comparison: The 2026 Chevy Traverse
Try Out Every Drive Mode When You Test Drive the 2026 Chevy Traverse at Chevrolet GMC of Mount Vernon
Learn more about every drive mode in the 2026 Chevy Traverse when you call (740) 462-6247, or visit Chevrolet GMC of Mount Vernon today to explore our selection of new Chevrolet SUVs near you.