Chevrolet Tahoe’s unmatched off-road performance

MUSCAT: The Chevrolet Tahoe has long been one of the most capable full-size SUVs both on and off the road. The Z71 package, which enhances the Tahoe’s already substantial off-road prowess, has been upgraded to deliver unprecedented capabilities and performance in the great outdoors.

Adventure beckons

At its core the 2018 Tahoe Z71 is still a premium SUV, however Chevrolet engineers have put in a lot of work to make it even more off-road capable than before. At the heart of the Tahoe Z71 is a 5.3L V-8 that delivers 355 horsepower and a prodigious 520 Nm of torque to make short work of the toughest terrain.

The front fascia with chrome grille has been re-designed for an increased approach angle of 24 degrees, giving the Tahoe Z71 the ability to take on much steeper inclines with ease. Also new is a robust skid-plate that protects the undercarriage of the vehicle from damage out in the wild.

When it comes to the size of the wheels, 18-inch off road tyres are the go to, however, the 20-inch alloy wheels do have a more imposing look. These special off-road rubbers provide enhanced grip and power distribution for better all-terrain performance, ensuring unimpeded progress even when the going gets rough.

Another innovative technology that allows the 2018 Tahoe Z71 to traverse the most inhospitable of surfaces is Hill Descent Control. The computers aid the driver in navigating steep hills by helping control the rate of descent, thereby preventing the vehicle from losing control or “digging in” to the sand.

The 2018 Tahoe already has an impressive ground clearance of 200mm, however, the Z71 package with available off-road suspension increases this distance even further, making few places out of reach.

Then there is the Tahoe Z71’s advanced all-wheel drive system, with available 2-speed transfer case which can go from 2-wheel drive to 4-wheel drive at the press of a button on the go, or when the terrain gets really rough, 4-low can ensure progress is unimpeded. Combine that with a rugged suspension, high-capacity air filter for better engine breathing and 3.42 rear-axle ratio and the Tahoe Z71 will dominate the most difficult terrain with ease.

Further additions to the Z71 package to enhance the off-roading experience include black recovery hooks, bright fog lamps, tubular assist steps and front sill plates.

The Tahoe also has a dedicated off road app on the driver information centre, which displays the Tahoe’s current pitch and roll, and 4-wheel drive system status, which give the driver a clear picture of the vehicle’s attitude and inclination which help avoid potentially dangerous situations.

For added visual impact to match the enhanced off-road ability, the Z71 is also available in a special Midnight Edition that brings 18-inch black painted wheels, Goodyear DuraTrac tyres, black mesh grille, black roof rack cross rails and black front and rear bowtie emblems.

Most advanced Tahoe ever

Being away from civilisation in some far flung location doesn’t mean a lack of comfort or connectivity in the Tahoe Z71. It features Chevrolet’s award-winning Chevrolet infotainment system with phone integration and mirroring capability such as Apple CarPlay, which allows for music streaming, navigation and access to phone contacts simply by connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth of USB respectively. Furthermore, for ease of carrying off-road equipment or camping gear, the Tahoe Z71 features power fold-flat third-row seats to make loading-up a cinch.

Overall, the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 is a consummate offroader, but one that melds several thoughtful and intelligent touches with sheer brawn to make even the most far out off-road adventures accessible and fun.