Chevrolet Tahoe benefits from update for 2021, gets an optional diesel engine
The full-size Chevrolet Tahoe traditional sport utility entered a new generation for 2021 that brought its first-ever diesel-engine option.
Correspondingly, the Tahoe’s bigger sibling, the Suburban, arrived at the same time with virtually all of the same updates and new features as the Tahoe. The Suburban essentially is just a stretched version of the Tahoe -- 14 inches longer, which gives it more passenger and cargo space.
The new Tahoe is seven inches longer than the previous model. It has 60% more cargo room behind the third row, along with significantly more space and extra comfort for its passengers.
To that end, the Tahoe has added 10 inches of thirdrow legroom, making that a decently sized seating option even for adults.
Tahoe comes in five trim levels for 2021: LS ($49,600 plus $1,695 freight); LT ($54,300); RST ($57,400); Z71 ($59,200, four-wheel drive only); Premier ($62,800); and High Country ($69,700).
Those prices are for rearwheel-drive models (except the Z71); four-wheel drive is available on all models for an additional $3,000.
Standard on all but the
High Country model is a 5.3-liter V-8 gasoline engine with 355 horsepower and 383 foot-pounds of torque. The High Country comes with a 6.2-liter gasoline V-8 with 420 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque, or the turbocharged 3.0liter Duramax diesel engine cranking out 277 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque.
With the redesign, the previous six-speed manual transmission was replaced by the 10-speed, which is shifted using a row of vertical push-pull buttons on the
dash just to the right of the steering wheel. All versions and engines use the 10-speed transmission.
We tested the Tahoe Premier model with four-wheel drive and the 5.3-liter engine, had a base price of $65,600, but topped out at $71,805 with freight and one option, the Premium Package ($4,485).
These well-equipped and –appointed large SUVS have seating for up to eight passengers, and plenty of cargo space. A sevenpassenger seating layout, included on our test vehicle, has dual captain’s chairs in the
middle row instead of s threeperson bench.
There are numerous subtle exterior changes, including a new grille. But the redesigned model is clearly recognizable as a Tahoe.
Among standard exterior features are LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights; dual exhaust tips; and power/folding side mirrors. Our vehicle also had an independent rear suspension paired with Magnetic Ride Control.
Inside, we had heated and ventilated front seats that were quite comfortable,