By Larry Lark, contributor
Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) for short, in the big scheme of things, are a recent development.
Chevrolet, on the other hand, has been manufacturing a semblance of the SUV since 1935 with the introduction of the Suburban. Let’s just say, with a 50+ year head start, Chevy has a leg up on its competition.
The 2021 Chevy Tahoe 4WD High Country (and Suburban) have both been completely redesigned to be the ultimate SUV – offering the most interior space, exclusive technologies and features, and the best driving dynamics in the full-size SUV segment.
Already America’s best-selling full-size SUV, accounting for more than 25 percent of the segment, the changes come from a position of strength.
“With an increasing number of SUVs on the market, we knew the all-new Tahoe and Suburban needed to reach higher than ever,” said Tim Herrick, vice president, global product programs. “We transformed Tahoe and Suburban to offer all-new technologies and features and deliver a better driving experience, while staying true to the versatility and capability that have earned people’s trust for generations.”
This was achieved through a complete transformation of Chevrolet’s full-size SUVs, combining the strongest aspects of its new full-size truck architecture with entirely new systems tailored to the needs of today’s SUV drivers and passengers. These changes result in:
Class-leading interior space with 60-percent more cargo room behind Tahoe’s third row.
Dramatically improved driving dynamics including the most advanced suspension in the segment with an independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, and Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that provides load leveling at all four corners of the vehicle.
An entirely new SUV-specific interior offering up to five display screens in total.
Thirty safety and driver convenience features, highlighted by standard Automatic Emergency Braking, and new features, including HD Surround Vision and Rear Pedestrian Alert
Technologies to optimize performance including an updated 6.2-liter V-8 engine offering best-in-class 420 horsepower and dynamic fuel management, 10-speed automatic transmission and push-button electronic shift.
Best-in-class nine camera views and new trailering features designed to help improve the driver’s experience and confidence, including trailer profiles, trailer tire pressure/temperature monitoring, and Side Blind Zone Alert for trailering.
High Country is Chevy truck’s top-level model, customized with premium features. The design is highlighted by a unique grille with bronze accents and High Country badging. The interior includes High Country sill plates, seat embroidery, and expanded color and trim choices.
My tester, which seats up to seven adults, was dressed to the nines. Highlights included heated and ventilated leather front bucket seats, second-row heated bucket seats, and a third-row 60/40 split bench with power fold to accommodate more cargo when needed.
Creature comforts include a rear seat media system, premium Bose audio system with 10 speakers, adaptive cruise control, panoramic power sunroof, tri-zone climate control, premium navigation, and a host of connectivity technology too long to list.
For larger families, or for those with large toys, Tahoe provides an uncompromising solution, and is manufactured at GM’s Arlington, Texas assembly facility.
Base Price: $73,895
Price As Driven: $81,345
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
