As you all know, General Motors has stepped up its game when it comes to full-size SUVs. The Tahoe and Suburban now feature the T1 body-on-frame platform from the Silverado half-ton truck, complete with independent rear suspension.
Larger and plusher than the previous generation, the Tahoe has also received a promo video that details the Air Ride Adaptive Suspension system. Exclusive to the High Country trim level and Z71 off-road model, this option is listed as “late availability” for the 2021 model year on the golden bowtie’s U.S. website.
The electronic brain of the suspension automatically lowers the Tahoe at speed to improve fuel economy. The Environmental Protection Agency lists the full-size SUV with 2WD and the 5.3-liter V8 at 20 miles to the gallon on the highway while the 6.2 and 4WD drop to 19 miles per gallon (11.7 and 12.4 l/100 kilometers).
No fewer than four height modes are offered, varying up to four inches or 102 millimeters between the lowest and the highest. Entry Exit needs no explaining, while Normal is pretty obvious as well. Increased is the mode to use when hitting a dirt road on your way to the camping site while Maximum ground clearance is what you want when the going gets muddy, rocky, and so forth. Of course, you can use the Maximum setting when in 4WD LO mode.
Load leveling at all four corners translates to better weight distribution, which is very important in a utility vehicle as heavy as the Tahoe. The all-new-for-2021 High Country 4x4, for example, tips the scales at 5,845 pounds (2,651 kilograms).
Described by Chevy’s marketing team as “the most advanced available suspension in the segment,” the suspension system is complemented by Magnetic Ride Control. Standard on the Premier and High Country yet optional on the Z71, “it’s one of the fastest-reacting damping systems in the industry” according to the golden bowtie.
On an ending note, have you heard the small-block V8 will be joined by a 3.0-liter Duramax straight-six turbo diesel? Codenamed LM2, this engine is also listed as “late availability.”
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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