REDESIGNED TAHOE SERVES ALL PRACTICAL PURPOSES

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

It’s a fact. Even if gas prices reached $4 a gallon and beyond, there would still be a demand for full-sized SUVs such as the truck-based 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. After all, few rides on the road can tow up to 8,200 pounds, carry up to eight passengers comfortably and boast cargo space of 122.9 cubic feet. And the overhauled ride is bigger than ever before. Here are the impressive figures: wheelbase and length are up by 4.9 and 6.7 inches respectively; third-row leg room increases another 10.1 cubic feet as does the cargo area behind the third row; and maximum cargo room grows by a gigantic 28.2 cubic feet.

Chevy’s large SUV is equipped with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine generating 355 horsepower @ 5600 rpm and 383 pounds-feet of torque @ 4100 rpm. Mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed auto gearbox, the fully boxed frame Tahoe is offered in rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive versions. An independent coil-over-shock front and a new independent rear suspension (out goes the traditional solid-axle) work well to eagerly tackle sharp, sudden curves on the road. An accurate and well-weighted power-assist rack-and-pinion steering works incredibly well to guide the large SUV into a tight parking spot.

Magnetic Ride Control, which adjusts the four-wheel independent suspension as per road conditions, brings toughness and rock-solid stability to the ride. GM’s Dynamic Fuel Management system deactivates half of its eight cylinders to conserve gas while cruising or at slower speeds. EPA estimates are 16 city/20 highway and 18 combined.

The Tahoe makes its presence known wherever you go, thanks to the familiar but massive centered bowtie on a black-ice finish grille, LED headlights and tail lamps and 22-inch black-painted wheels. Step into the capacious cabin and you will realize there is no need to remove the third-row seat. Instead, press a button in the cargo hold and watch the bench fold. The second-row seat moves fore and aft 5.5 inches. The two-gauge analog instrument cluster is well-lit and crystal clear. And the huge center console can swallow a laptop. Other notable goodies include tri-zone auto a/c, tilt/telescopic steering column, 10.2-inch color touch screen for infotainment readings, 9-speaker Bose surround system, heated front seats, hands-free power lift gate, wireless phone charge and several USB slots.

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for rear rows, stability, hill descent and traction controls, four-wheel antilock brakes, rearview camera, mechanical limited slip differential, forward collision alert, auto emergency brakes, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

The Tahoe power plant delivers a calm and compliant ride, responsive braking and remarkably good body control despite its weight. No wonder, this full-sized SUV is a functional miracle that has served its buyers well for over 25 years.

CHEVY TAHOE (RST)

Tires: P285/45R22

Wheelbase: 120.9 inches

Length: 210.7 inches

Width: 81 inches

Height: 75.8 inches

Weight: 5,661 pounds

Fuel capacity: 24 gallons

Base price: $60,100

Price as tested: 68,485

Web site: www.chevy.com