Ease of assembly...
Something you can relate to Ray.
The 2012 and later Chevy Traverse is delivered with a shorter PF64 oil filter for assembly rather than the longer PF63E filter which puts you even closer to the catalytic converter
Just straight pipe it, problem solved.
Not quite solved but it would give a bit more room to remove and attach.
From the top you still have to snake your arm to the filter and remove and install without any visual and be careful not to spill oil on the alternator.
One of the AC ports is nearby as well
Not a design meant for the auto tech.