2027 Chevrolet Traverse RS vs. High Country

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse RS and Traverse High Country sit near the top of the Traverse lineup, giving three-row SUV shoppers two distinctly different ways to go premium. The RS emphasizes bold, sport-inspired styling, while the High Country takes a more refined and upscale approach.
What makes this comparison especially interesting is price. The 2027 Traverse RS starts at $55,800, while the Traverse High Country starts at $56,100—a difference of only $300 in starting MSRP.
Both use Chevrolet’s 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. Both include Super Cruise as standard equipment, and the Traverse offers 5,000 lbs. of towing capability with its included trailering equipment.
So which premium Traverse should you choose? This comparison from McDaniel GM Superstore in Marion, Ohio breaks down the 2027 Traverse RS vs. High Country to help you decide.
Traverse RS vs. High Country: What’s the Difference?
The quick answer: Choose the Traverse RS if you prefer bold, sport-inspired styling. Choose the Traverse High Country if you prefer a more refined, upscale interpretation of Chevrolet’s three-row SUV.
Performance isn’t the major separator. Both trims use the same 328-horsepower turbocharged engine, and both include Super Cruise. With only a small difference in starting MSRP, this decision is primarily about styling, interior atmosphere and the specific equipment on the vehicles you’re comparing.
2027 Traverse RS
SPORTY & PREMIUM
Best for: Drivers who want premium Traverse features combined with a bolder, sport-inspired personality.
- Starting MSRP: $55,800
- 328-hp 2.5L Turbo
- Super Cruise standard
- Sport-inspired RS appearance
- Three-row family versatility
2027 Traverse High Country
REFINED & PREMIUM
Best for: Drivers who want premium Traverse equipment with a more refined and upscale design direction.
- Starting MSRP: $56,100
- 328-hp 2.5L Turbo
- Super Cruise standard
- High Country styling
- Three-row family versatility
2027 Traverse RS vs. High Country Comparison
| Category | Traverse RS | Traverse High Country |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $55,800 | $56,100 |
| Price Difference | — | $300 higher starting MSRP |
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 2.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 328 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs. | 5,000 lbs. |
| Super Cruise | Standard | Standard |
| Personality | Sporty / Premium | Refined / Premium |
| Best For | Bold styling | Upscale styling |
Starting MSRP and equipment are subject to change. Confirm current pricing, options and equipment on the specific Traverse you’re considering.
Only $300 Separates the RS and High Country
One of the most important facts in this comparison is how closely the two trims are positioned.
Traverse RS Starting MSRP
Traverse High Country Starting MSRP
Difference: $300
At that point, choosing strictly by base price may not make much sense. Instead, compare the actual vehicles available, their options and the styling you prefer.
An RS with additional options can easily be priced differently than a particular High Country, so always compare the window stickers and actual selling prices of specific vehicles.
Do the Traverse RS and High Country Have Different Engines?
No. Both use Chevrolet’s 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque.
Unlike some vehicle lineups where moving to a premium trim also means moving to a larger engine, the Traverse RS vs. High Country decision isn’t primarily a powertrain comparison.
Turbocharged Engine
Horsepower
Torque
Towing Capability
Sporty or Refined: The Biggest RS vs. High Country Difference
For many shoppers, appearance will ultimately determine the winner.
Traverse RS Styling
The RS takes a more aggressive approach to the Traverse’s exterior design. It is aimed at shoppers who want a family SUV without a conservative appearance.
RS is likely your choice if you prefer:
- Sport-inspired styling
- Bold exterior details
- A more aggressive road presence
- A modern, athletic appearance
- Premium features without traditional luxury styling
Traverse High Country Styling
High Country takes the Traverse in a more traditional premium direction, emphasizing refinement rather than sport-inspired attitude.
High Country is likely your choice if you prefer:
- Refined exterior styling
- An upscale appearance
- Premium design details
- A more sophisticated visual personality
- Traditional Chevrolet High Country character
Traverse RS vs. High Country Interior
The same sporty-versus-refined distinction continues inside the Traverse.
Both are positioned as premium choices, but trim-specific materials, colors and design details give each cabin its own personality.
Because the starting prices are so close, this is one comparison where we strongly recommend sitting in both trims before making your decision.
When you’re spending hours behind the wheel, the cabin you personally prefer may matter far more than the small difference in starting MSRP.
Do Both the Traverse RS and High Country Have Super Cruise?
Yes. Super Cruise is standard on both the 2027 Traverse RS and Traverse High Country.
That means shoppers don’t have to choose High Country simply to gain this advanced highway technology.
Super Cruise is designed to provide hands-free driver assistance on compatible roads while using a driver-attention system to help ensure the driver remains engaged.
For families regularly traveling between Marion, Columbus, Cleveland and other Ohio destinations, Super Cruise can be an important reason to consider either of these premium Traverse trims.
Premium Traverse Technology
Both RS and High Country build on the Traverse’s technology-focused interior.
17.7-Inch Touchscreen
The large infotainment display gives the Traverse a modern, technology-focused dashboard.
11-Inch Driver Display
A digital driver information display keeps important vehicle information directly in view.
Super Cruise
Standard on both RS and High Country for hands-free driver assistance on compatible roads.
Family Connectivity
Modern connectivity features help keep passengers and drivers connected during everyday trips and longer drives.
Which Premium Traverse Is Better for Families?
From a family-utility perspective, both RS and High Country provide the core advantages of the Traverse: three-row seating, substantial cargo room and modern technology.
The better choice comes down largely to preference.
Choose RS If…
- You prefer sporty styling
- You want an aggressive-looking family SUV
- You like the RS design theme
- You want Super Cruise
- You prioritize modern appearance
Choose High Country If…
- You prefer refined styling
- You want a traditional premium appearance
- You like High Country design details
- You want Super Cruise
- You prefer upscale over sporty
How Much Cargo Space Does the Traverse Have?
The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse provides up to approximately 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.
That makes both RS and High Country practical premium family vehicles rather than SUVs that sacrifice utility simply to gain upscale features.
The available cargo room can accommodate luggage, sports equipment, strollers, home-improvement purchases and other gear families routinely carry.
Is the Traverse a Three-Row SUV?
Yes. The Traverse is a three-row Chevrolet SUV designed around family passenger and cargo needs.
Depending on configuration, the Traverse lineup can accommodate up to eight passengers.
If you don’t need three rows, the smaller 2027 Chevrolet Equinox may be worth comparing before moving into the larger Traverse.
Traverse RS vs. High Country Towing Capacity
The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse offers 5,000 lbs. of towing capability with its included trailering equipment.
That gives both premium trims useful recreational towing capability while retaining the passenger and cargo advantages of a three-row crossover SUV.
Always account for passengers, cargo, trailer weight and hitch equipment when planning a towing setup.
Which Is Better for Road Trips?
Both the RS and High Country are particularly strong Traverse choices for highway travel.
They share the same engine, three-row architecture, substantial cargo space and standard Super Cruise.
Because their fundamental road-trip capability is so similar, the decision again comes down to which interior and exterior design you prefer and the equipment included on the specific vehicles you’re comparing.
Should You Buy the Traverse Z71 Instead?
If you’re considering an RS or High Country but capability matters more than premium styling, don’t overlook the Traverse Z71.
Z71 adds capability-focused hardware including a twin-clutch AWD system, off-road suspension, Terrain Mode and Hill Descent Control.
It’s especially compelling for families who frequently travel rural roads, encounter winter conditions or spend weekends at outdoor destinations.
Which Is the Better Value: RS or High Country?
With only $300 separating their starting MSRPs, there isn’t an obvious winner based on base price alone.
Instead, compare:
- The actual selling price of each vehicle
- Installed options and packages
- Exterior and interior colors
- Available Chevrolet incentives
- Trade-in value
- Lease or finance programs
- Which design you genuinely prefer
A specific RS could cost more than a specific High Country depending on equipment, so don’t assume the trim’s starting MSRP determines which vehicle will ultimately cost less.
Lease or Buy a 2027 Traverse?
Whether leasing or buying makes more sense depends on annual mileage, how long you plan to keep your Traverse and the Chevrolet programs available when you’re ready to purchase.
Because offers change, check our current specials rather than relying on an old monthly payment published on an evergreen model research page.
Used Chevrolet Traverse for Sale in Marion, Ohio
If a new RS or High Country isn’t the right fit for your budget, our pre-owned inventory may include used Chevrolet Traverse models in a variety of trims and configurations.
Used inventory changes frequently, so check current availability if you’re searching for a specific model year, trim, color or equipment combination.
2027 Chevrolet Traverse Near Columbus & Central Ohio
McDaniel GM Superstore is located in Marion and serves Chevrolet SUV shoppers throughout Central and North Central Ohio.
Delaware, Ohio
Compare premium Traverse trims, current inventory and Chevrolet offers.
Columbus, Ohio
Expand your Traverse search north to McDaniel GM Superstore in Marion.
Dublin, Ohio
Compare premium Chevrolet SUVs, advanced technology and current inventory.
Powell, Ohio
Shop Traverse RS, High Country and other Chevrolet SUV configurations.
Why Shop for Your Traverse at McDaniel GM Superstore?
McDaniel Automotive has served Ohio drivers for generations, with a history dating back to 1916.
Compare Premium Trims
Compare available RS and High Country models side by side to see which equipment and design you prefer.
Current Chevrolet Offers
See current programs instead of relying on outdated advertised pricing.
Trade-In Options
Apply the value of your current vehicle toward your next Chevrolet Traverse.
Certified Service
Continue maintaining your Chevrolet through our Marion Certified Service department.
Chevrolet Traverse Service in Marion, Ohio
McDaniel GM Superstore can continue helping maintain your Traverse through our Chevrolet Certified Service department.
Our service department is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
2027 Chevrolet Traverse RS vs. High Country FAQs
What is the difference between the 2027 Traverse RS and High Country?
The biggest difference is their design direction. RS emphasizes sporty styling, while High Country provides a more refined premium appearance. Both use the same 2.5L turbocharged engine and include Super Cruise as standard equipment.
Which is better, Traverse RS or High Country?
Neither is automatically better. Choose RS if you prefer sport-inspired styling and High Country if you prefer a more traditional upscale appearance.
How much more is the Traverse High Country than the RS?
Based on starting MSRP, the 2027 High Country starts approximately $300 higher than the RS: $56,100 compared with $55,800.
Do the Traverse RS and High Country have the same engine?
Yes. Both use a 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque.
Does the 2027 Traverse RS have Super Cruise?
Yes. Super Cruise is standard on the 2027 Traverse RS.
Does the 2027 Traverse High Country have Super Cruise?
Yes. Super Cruise is also standard on the 2027 Traverse High Country.
Is the Traverse RS faster than the High Country?
Both use the same 328-horsepower 2.5L turbo engine, so the RS name should not be interpreted as a separate higher-output engine option.
Which Traverse is more luxurious?
Both are premium Traverse trims. High Country uses a more traditional upscale design theme, while RS combines premium equipment with sport-inspired styling.
Which Traverse is better for road trips?
Both are strong road-trip choices because they offer three-row versatility, substantial cargo capacity and standard Super Cruise.
How much can the 2027 Traverse tow?
The 2027 Traverse offers 5,000 lbs. of towing capability with its included trailering equipment.
How much cargo space does the Traverse have?
The 2027 Traverse offers up to approximately 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.
Does the Traverse have three rows?
Yes. The Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV, and the lineup can accommodate up to eight passengers depending on configuration.
Should I buy the Traverse Z71 instead of RS or High Country?
Consider Z71 if rugged capability, twin-clutch AWD and capability-focused equipment matter more to you than the premium styling emphasis of RS or High Country.
Is the Traverse bigger than the Equinox?
Yes. Traverse is Chevrolet’s larger three-row SUV option, while Equinox is a smaller two-row compact SUV.
Where can I buy a 2027 Traverse RS or High Country near Columbus?
McDaniel GM Superstore in Marion serves Traverse shoppers from Columbus, Delaware, Dublin, Powell and communities throughout Central Ohio.
Where is McDaniel GM Superstore?
McDaniel GM Superstore is located at 1065 Mt. Vernon Ave., Marion, OH 43302.
Continue Your Chevrolet SUV Research
2027 Chevrolet Traverse
Explore the complete Traverse lineup, performance, technology, seating and cargo capability.
Traverse Z71 vs. RS
Compare rugged Z71 capability with the premium, sport-inspired Traverse RS.
Equinox RS vs. ACTIV
Compare sporty and adventure-inspired versions of Chevrolet’s compact SUV.
Current Chevrolet Specials
See current Chevrolet programs and dealership offers.
RS or High Country? Find Your 2027 Traverse.
Compare the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse RS and High Country at McDaniel GM Superstore. Explore available colors, equipment, technology and current Chevrolet offers to find the premium three-row SUV that fits your family.
McDaniel GM Superstore
1065 Mt. Vernon Ave.
Marion, OH 43302