SUV lovers’ traditional “bigger-is-better” mantra doesn’t always resonate with people who want a right-sized alternative, a compromise between spaciousness and economy/efficiency. Chevrolet’s Tahoe SUV is a vehicle for buyers who want more than mega.
The Tahoe is an alternative to the gas-guzzling, road-hogging SUV standard, a big design that’s remained faithful to the notion that you can build a loyal customer following without churning out a gas-guzzling, road-hogging leviathan year after year. If you’re a rankings wonk, you’ll be interested to know that Chevy Tahoe was rated number one on J.D. Power’s 2021 Top 10 Consumer-Rated SUV list, garnering top marks for driving experience, resale, and dealership experience.
Oomph, Efficiency and Roominess
The most recent iteration of the Tahoe features more passenger and cargo space in its three-row interior. There’s 11 cubic feet more space behind the third row in the new model, and passengers who somehow always find themselves consigned to the back row won’t feel so resentful in the new Chevy Tahoe, which features 10 more inches for a grand total of 34.9 inches of legroom back there. It’s roomy without the weight and volume of the Chevy Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, Ford Expedition and other mainstays of the traditional full-size SUV.
Performance is nothing new to Chevrolet Tahoe owners. The new version offers an efficient Duramax in-line six engine, including a high-performing 3.0-liter turbodiesel that registered 28 mpg in a highway test and 24 mpg overall. The new diesel version also delivers a boost in overall oomph: 277 hp and an 8,200-pound towing capacity.
Drivetrain upgrades provide a smooth, even, gear-to-gear transition as the Tahoe whirls through its 10-speed automatic transmission. An independent rear suspension, which replaces the old solid-rear-axle design, has improved the Tahoe’s handling. Ride, efficiency, and a roomier interior combine to put the latest Chevrolet Tahoe in a class of its own, an SUV that’s a pleasure to drive, a winner at the gas pump, and a great fit for drivers who don’t like feeling overwhelmed behind the wheel.
Not Your Average SUV
Of course, there are plenty of other great reasons why so many people enjoy driving the Chevy Tahoe. Being a passenger in the new Tahoe is almost as fun as driving one.
Like any exciting new ride, the Tahoe comes well-stocked with tech extras and some good ol’ bells and whistles. Chevrolet doesn’t disappoint in these categories, thanks to the Tahoe’s 10-speaker Bose audio system, double-rear-seat video touch screens, and surround-view cameras. Chevy Tahoe’s got the communications tech covered with Apple Car Play, Android Auto, voice control, and more.
Right-sized ride in a big-vehicle class
There’s a lot to be said for a vehicle that can accommodate the whole family on long-distance adventures or pick up heavy loads without blowing away your gas budget. It’s even better if you can do it all in a nice quiet ride. That’s what makes the Tahoe a different breed, a right-sized Chevy SUV in a class dominated by size. If you’re put off by too much size, you may find the Chevrolet Tahoe to be a very nice compromise, one that stands comfortably outside the full-sized niche occupied by traditional SUV mega-models.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.