Apple CarPlay is a standard feature found in many modern cars. Using Apple’s lightning cable, drivers can sync their phones with the car’s infotainment system to access music, navigation, and more. Cars that have Apple CarPlay almost always have Android Auto and, in some cases, Amazon Alexa.

Pretty much every automaker offers this feature free of charge. However, it may not come in the standard trim of certain vehicles. If you’re shopping for an SUV, these cars usually have a lot of advanced infotainment and safety technology options standard. Chevy currently has a few good SUVs on the market, like the Chevrolet Traverse. Is smartphone integration available for this model?

When did Chevy introduce Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay was first released in 2014, but it wasn’t widely available until the following year. Chevrolet added the feature to its cars in May 2015 for the 2016 model year. Chevy was also the first automaker to offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at the same time.

Chevrolet vehicles from before 2016 can’t be updated to include CarPlay. However, there are still plenty of ways to install Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in an older car. As long as your iPhone is from the fifth generation or later, you can sync it using an aftermarket device.

The Chevrolet Traverse’s technology

Like every new Chevy vehicle, the Traverse comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the standard trim. It also features Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen, plenty of USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An entertainment system for the rear seat is also available in the LS trim, which costs $2,000 extra.

Other available infotainment offerings include wireless charging, a 10-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and built-in navigation. Higher trims also have an 8-inch touchscreen instead of the standard 7-inch.

Engine power

For 2020, the Chevrolet Traverse only comes with one engine option. It’s a V6 engine capable of 310 hp and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Previous models featured a turbocharged four-cylinder option in certain trims, but this engine is no longer available. The V6 is sluggish even by SUV standards, but it still provides a decent amount of power.

With the exception of the base trim, every Traverse can be purchased with all-wheel drive. However, even with front-wheel drive, critics noted that the Traverse drives smoothly over most kinds of terrain. The engine also comes with start-stop technology, but this function can’t be disabled.

A big interior

One of the best aspects of the Chevy Traverse is its cavernous interior. Unlike many SUVs, its third-row seats are roomy enough to accommodate even taller adult passengers. Even with no seats folded down, the Traverse still has 23 cubic feet of cargo space. The cabin also has plenty of big storage cubbies for smaller items.

Cloth seating is standard plus tri-zone automatic climate control so that each passenger feels comfortable. In higher trims, the seats can be heated, ventilated, power-adjustable, and wrapped in leather. The most expensive trims have heated second-row seats and a heated steering wheel.

The Chevy Traverse’s weak points

The Traverse is definitely a great SUV if you have a lot of cargo and passengers. However, there are some areas where it needs improvement. Its only standard safety features are a rearview camera and the Teen Driver system. If you need more, you’ll have to buy one of the two priciest models.

The High Country is the most expensive trim at $52,000. However, some critics think that it’s not a good value for the price. A used 2014 Traverse is a great bargain, but you’ll definitely need an extra device to gain access to Apple CarPlay.