The 2021 Chevy Tahoe marks the first time the full-size SUV has been fully redesigned since 2015, and all of us here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis believe it's an excellent part of the plan to stay competitive and lean against the sworn arch rival found in the form of the Ford Expedition! After time spent with a lengthy drive of a production Z71 example, seasoned writer Joel Stocksdale found it to be an excellently-packaged SUV with greatly improved interior and a variety of engine choices.
The standard engine is the 5.3-Liter V8 cranking out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and is seen on all trims except the High Country, which receives the powerful 6.2-liter V8 making 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with Dynamic Fuel Management cylinder deactivation, expertly engineered to shut off any cylinder needed instead of an entire set bank. The two engines now are paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and later a class-exclusive diesel 3.0-liter inline-six engine will be available with the 10-speed automatic. The 5.3-Liter engine proved to be smooth and quiet, and switching to Sport Mode firms up the suspension perfectly to ease the ride over bumps.
By using the air suspension, the driver is also able to lower or raise the Tahoe by two inches, aiding with ground clearance. Inside, the interior has been completely remade, and the rounded shape of the main dash features an elegant touch that is wrapped in simulated leather on higher trims. The controls are easy to access and use, and the 10-inch standard touchscreen is responsive and simple to reach. You can also opt for a wide variety of helpful trailering cameras, dual 12.6-inch second-row monitors, and upgrade to a 15-inch heads-up display. These rear screens also can quickly connect with the navigation system so rear passengers can help with destination searches.
The true highlight of the Tahoe's cabin is its new spaciousness, after gaining an extra 6.7 inches in length, wheelbase stretched by 4.9 inches, and the switch to an independent suspension that allows lowering of the floor. It's simple to find a comfortable space up front, with an abundance of head and legroom, as well as plenty of adjustability in the seat and wheel. A 5-ft-11" tall passenger was poised in the second row with plenty of room to spare, and the third row boasts as much legroom as the bigger Suburban.
Cargo space also sees a boost in the new model, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The outgoing model just had 15.3 cubic feet here, and with all seats folded, space expands from 94.7 cubic feet to 122.9. Maximum towing capacity remains the same at 8,400 pounds, and for those eager to get off-road as soon as possible, the Tahoe Z71 sports all-terrain tires, a limited-slip differential, skid plates, and unique front bumper for an improved approach.