Vehicle News Update: Chevrolet has revealed its 2021 Tahoe and Suburban full-size SUVs, redesigned to use the T1 platform from the latest Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
The new Chevy SUVs will go on sale mid-next year in North America and will be followed at a later date by their GMC twins, the Yukon and Yukon XL. The T1 platform will also spawn a new generation of Cadillac Escalade.
The Tahoe and Suburban ranges consist of the LS, LT, off-road-focused Z71, sporty-looking RST, posh Premier and the new, range-topping High Country.
The Z71 (above) is now a standalone trim level instead of an option package and features a higher approach angle, a two-speed transfer case, all-terrain tyres, and a front skid plate. Unlike the other models, four-wheel-drive is mandatory.
Unlike Ford, who switched to a twin-turbocharged V6 for its rival full-size Expedition, GM will retain standard V8 power.
Standard on all bar the High Country is a 5.3-litre V8 with 265kW and 519Nm, while the new flagship trim has a 6.2-litre V8 with 313kW and 623Nm.
Both V8s feature cylinder deactivation, automatic stop/start, variable valve-timing and direct injection.
There will be a six-cylinder Tahoe and Suburban, however, for the first time since the 1990s. The new Duramax 3.0-litre turbo-diesel is optional on all bar the Z71 and produces 207kW and a stout 623Nm.
Diesel market penetration is much lower in North America so GM’s new trucks will be unique in their segment in offering an oil-burner.
All three engines use a 10-speed automatic transmission.
GM has belatedly followed in Ford’s footsteps in one respect, however, switching to an independent multi-link rear suspension from the erstwhile live rear axle.
This allows for a more comfortable seating position and greater legroom for third-row occupants (up 256mm in the Tahoe), as well as a flatter load floor.
GM’s Magnetic Ride Control is standard on the Premier and High Country and optional on the Z71.
There’s also the new Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, available on the High Country and Z71, which delivers automatic load-levelling and ride-height adjustment.
