2026 Traverse or Enclave? Finding the Right 3-Row SUV for Montréal Families

Choosing between the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave means deciding what matters most for your family in Montréal. Both 3-row SUVs share the same powerful 2.5L Turbo engine and standard all-wheel drive, but they take different approaches to comfort, technology, and style. The Traverse emphasizes versatility and cargo capacity, while the Enclave focuses on premium finishes and refined luxury. Understanding these differences helps Quebec families find the right match for school runs, weekend getaways, and everything in between.

This comparison breaks down how each SUV performs in the areas that matter most—from seating flexibility and cargo space to technology features and driving dynamics. No matter if you prioritize maximum utility or elevated comfort, both vehicles deliver the capability families need across Quebec's varied terrain and weather conditions.

At a Glance: Traverse vs. Enclave

Performance and Capability

Both SUVs use identical powertrains: a 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Standard all-wheel drive comes on every trim level for both vehicles, providing confident traction on Montréal's snowy streets and Quebec highways.

Towing capacity reaches 2,267 kg (5,000 lb) when properly equipped on both models, with standard trailering packages that include Hitch Guidance and Hitch View. This capability handles boat trailers, utility trailers, or campers for families who explore beyond the city.

The Traverse offers a unique Z71 trim with an advanced twin-clutch AWD system, off-road-tuned suspension, Terrain Mode, and Hill Descent Control. This configuration adds capability for families who venture onto unpaved cottage roads or winter trails. The Enclave focuses on on-road refinement, with the Avenir trim featuring Premium Ride suspension with Continuous Damping Control that adapts in real time to road conditions.

Key Performance Highlights:

• Identical engine output and towing capacity
• Traverse Z71 adds off-road capability
• Enclave Avenir offers adaptive suspension
• Both deliver confident winter traction

Interior Space and Seating Flexibility

The Traverse provides a choice between 7-passenger and 8-passenger configurations. Seven-passenger layouts include second-row captain's chairs with SmartSlide, allowing easy third-row access even with a child seat installed. The 8-passenger option (available on LT) uses a second-row bench seat. Standard one-touch folding second-row seats and power-folding third-row seats on the RS trim simplify cargo transitions.

The Enclave seats seven passengers across all trims, using second-row captain's chairs exclusively. The Avenir trim includes standard one-touch folding second-row seats and power-folding third-row seats (these features are available as a Power Package on Preferred and Sport Touring trims). The Enclave's floating centre console design creates an airy feel while providing functional storage.

Cargo capacity nearly matches: the Traverse offers 2,764 L maximum, while the Enclave provides 2,761 L. Both vehicles deliver ample space for hockey equipment, groceries, or vacation luggage. Behind the third row, the Traverse offers slightly more immediate cargo access, but both SUVs accommodate strollers and daily gear without folding seats.

Second-row legroom measures 1,053 mm in both vehicles, providing comfortable space for adults or growing teenagers. Third-row legroom in the Enclave measures 816 mm—adequate for children or shorter adults on typical trips around Quebec.

Technology and Connectivity

Screen size creates the most visible technology difference. The Traverse features a standard 17.7-inch diagonal colour touchscreen paired with an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Centre. The Enclave counters with a 30-inch diagonal ultrawide display—the largest in its class—that integrates driver information and infotainment controls in a sweeping, continuous screen.

Both SUVs include Google built-in compatibility, allowing drivers to use Google Assistant, Google Maps, and compatible apps directly on the vehicle display. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability come standard on both models.

Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology is standard on the Traverse RS and available on LT and Z71. The Enclave offers Super Cruise as an available package across all trims, including Preferred. When equipped, both vehicles include a 3-year trial of OnStar connectivity to support the hands-free driving system on compatible highways throughout Canada.

The Traverse RS includes a Bose premium audio system (12 speakers in 2026 models), while the Enclave Preferred and Sport Touring trims feature a 12-speaker Bose system. The Enclave Avenir upgrades to a Bose Performance Series 16-speaker audio system for enhanced sound quality.

Design and Styling Approach

The Traverse adopts a rugged, SUV-inspired design with strong shoulders, a planted stance, and wheels pushed to the corners. The Z71 trim adds distinctive off-road styling with 18-inch high-gloss Black wheels, all-terrain tires, front recovery hooks, and Z71 badging. The RS trim takes a sportier direction with 22-inch high-gloss Black wheels, black-out features, and sequential turn signals.

The Enclave emphasizes sculpted elegance with signature check-shaped LED daytime running lamps and a low, wide grille. Sport Touring models feature High Gloss Black accents and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The Avenir trim showcases 22-inch Pearl Nickel finish wheels, an exclusive grille design, and walk-up lighting animation for a premium presence.

Interior materials reflect each brand's positioning. The Traverse offers Evotex seating surfaces on LT and Z71, with leather-appointed seats standard on RS. Heated front and second-row outboard seats come standard across all Traverse trims. The Enclave provides leatherette seating on Preferred and Sport Touring, while Avenir models feature quilted, perforated leather-appointed seats with massaging, heated, and ventilated front seats plus heated second-row outboard seats.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both SUVs include comprehensive standard safety suites. Shared features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, HD Rear Vision Camera, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Side Bicyclist Alert.

The Traverse adds standard Buckle to Drive (requiring front passengers to buckle before driving) and Teen Driver technology. HD Surround Vision is standard on Z71 and RS trims. The Enclave includes HD Surround Vision as standard equipment across all trims, along with Traffic Sign Recognition and Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking.

Both vehicles feature Safety Alert Seat, which provides directional haptic feedback to alert drivers of potential hazards. Rear Pedestrian Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control are available on both SUVs, enhancing safety and convenience for Quebec families navigating urban traffic and highway driving.

Trim-by-Trim Comparison

Chevrolet Traverse

LT: The foundation trim includes the 17.7-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, AutoSense Power Liftgate, heated front and second-row seats, and comprehensive safety features. Available in 7- or 8-passenger configurations. Super Cruise and dual-panel panoramic sunroof are available options.

Z71: Adds off-road capability with twin-clutch AWD, Terrain Mode, Hill Descent Control, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, skid plate, and recovery hooks. HD Surround Vision comes standard. Super Cruise remains available.

RS: Delivers sporty styling with 22-inch wheels, black-out features, one-touch folding second-row and power-folding third-row seats, Bose audio system, ambient lighting, and sequential turn signals. Super Cruise is standard with a 3-year trial.

Buick Enclave

Preferred: Includes the 30-inch ultrawide display, 12-speaker Bose audio, HD Surround Vision, 20-inch Medium Android finish wheels, heated front seats, and QuietTuning. Super Cruise is available as a package.

Sport Touring: Adds 20-inch High Gloss Black wheels, flat-bottom steering wheel, unique grille and trim, and Sport Touring badging. Maintains Preferred's technology and comfort features.

Avenir: The premium expression includes 22-inch Pearl Nickel wheels, Premium Ride suspension with Continuous Damping Control, quilted leather seats with massage and ventilation, heated second-row seats, panoramic sunroof, Head-Up Display, 16-speaker Bose Performance audio, and the Power Package (one-touch second-row, power third-row, Rear Camera Mirror). Rainsense wipers and enhanced lighting animation complete the luxury experience.

Which SUV Fits Your Quebec Family?

The Traverse suits families who need maximum flexibility and value. The 8-passenger option accommodates larger families or frequent carpools. The Z71 trim appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who need genuine off-road capability for cottage trips or winter adventures beyond paved roads. Lower starting prices and strong standard equipment make the Traverse a practical choice for budget-conscious families who don't want to sacrifice space or safety.

The Enclave targets families seeking elevated comfort and premium finishes. The 30-inch display creates a modern, tech-forward cabin, while QuietTuning and available massage seats enhance long-distance comfort. The Avenir trim delivers luxury features typically found in higher-priced segments. Families who value refinement over ruggedness, and who appreciate attention to interior details, will find the Enclave more aligned with their priorities.

Both SUVs deliver the core capabilities Quebec families need: confident all-wheel drive, ample cargo space, strong towing capacity, and comprehensive safety features. The choice comes down to your family's priorities: maximum versatility and off-road readiness (Traverse) or premium comfort and refined technology (Enclave).

Experience Both SUVs at Mont-Royal Chevrolet

Comparing specifications helps narrow your decision, but experiencing both vehicles reveals which SUV truly fits your family's needs. Visit Mont-Royal Chevrolet in Montréal to explore the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave side by side. Our team can demonstrate the technology features, show you the seating configurations, and arrange test drives that let you experience how each SUV handles Quebec roads and weather conditions.