When you’re in the market for a spacious and reliable SUV like the Chevrolet Traverse, understanding the final price involves more than just the number you initially see. It’s crucial to be aware of the additional costs that come with purchasing a vehicle, such as taxes, title, and various fees. This guide breaks down what you need to know about Chevrolet Traverse pricing, ensuring you’re fully informed when making your purchase decision.
The prices you see advertised for a Chevrolet Traverse, whether online or at the dealership, typically do not include several mandatory charges. These exclusions are standard practice in the automotive industry, and it’s important to factor them into your budget. These commonly excluded costs are:
- Tax: Sales tax will be applied to your Chevrolet Traverse purchase, and the exact rate will depend on your state and local tax laws. This can be a significant amount, so be sure to calculate the estimated tax based on your location’s rate.
- Title Fees: These are fees associated with transferring the legal title of the Chevrolet Traverse into your name. These fees are relatively standard but necessary for ownership.
- Tags (License and Registration Fees): You’ll need to register your Chevrolet Traverse with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. This involves license plate fees and registration charges, which vary by state and sometimes by vehicle type.
- Documentation Fee: Dealerships often charge a documentation fee to cover the costs of processing paperwork related to the sale, such as sales contracts and title documents. The amount can vary, and it’s worth clarifying this fee with the dealer.
- Dealer Fees: This is a broad category that can encompass various charges a dealership might add. These could include fees for vehicle preparation, advertising, or other dealer-specific charges. It’s essential to ask for a complete breakdown of all dealer fees to understand what you’re paying for.
It is always recommended to confirm all pricing details directly with the dealership. While dealerships strive for accuracy in their online listings and advertised prices, errors can occur. To ensure you have the most up-to-date and precise information regarding the price of a Chevrolet Traverse, including all applicable fees, reach out to the dealership directly. You can easily verify this information by calling their customer service or visiting them in person. Direct communication will give you the clarity you need to make an informed decision.
Furthermore, it’s beneficial to inquire about potential discounts and incentives that might be available for the Chevrolet Traverse. General Motors (GM) often provides various programs, and one notable example is the GM Employee Discount Program (EVPP). This program offers eligible individuals the opportunity to purchase or lease new GM vehicles, potentially including the Chevrolet Traverse, at a discounted price.
The GM Employee Discount Program has specific eligibility criteria. It’s primarily available to:
- Active GM employees.
- Retired GM employees.
- Former GM employees with more than 5 total years of cumulative service at GM.
- Widows and widowers of former GM employees who had more than 5 total years of cumulative service.
In addition to direct eligibility, the program extends to sponsored purchasers under certain conditions. Eligible GM employees and retirees with significant tenure can sponsor family members, potentially allowing them to also benefit from the discount when purchasing a Chevrolet Traverse.
- Sponsorship for Employees with 20+ Years of Service: Those with more than 20 total years of cumulative service, and their surviving spouses, can sponsor a wide range of relatives, including spouses, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, and in-laws. This generous sponsorship can extend the discount to numerous family members interested in a Chevrolet Traverse.
- Sponsorship for Employees with 5-20 Years of Service: Employees with 5 to 20 years of service, and their surviving spouses, have a more limited sponsorship scope, generally covering spouses and dependent children (under 21, or full-time students under 25). Even with a narrower scope, this still provides valuable discount opportunities for immediate family members looking at a Chevrolet Traverse.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is another term you’ll encounter when researching the Chevrolet Traverse. The MSRP is the price that the manufacturer recommends the dealer sell the vehicle for. However, it’s important to remember that the MSRP excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. The dealer ultimately sets the final price, which may be negotiable. Understanding the MSRP is a starting point, but always factor in the additional costs and remember to discuss the final price with the dealer.
In conclusion, purchasing a Chevrolet Traverse involves understanding the components of its final price. Beyond the base price or MSRP, remember to account for taxes, title, registration, documentation, and other dealer fees. Furthermore, explore potential savings through programs like the GM Employee Discount Program if you or a family member qualifies. Always verify all pricing information and potential discounts directly with the dealership to ensure a transparent and informed purchase experience for your new Chevrolet Traverse.
