They say bigger isn't always better, but that's not the case when it comes to the all-new 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and the 2021 Chevy Suburban. Bigger and better is exactly how we'd describe these vehicles after their redesign. Thanks to an all-new chassis and bigger proportions, the full-size SUVs feature increased cargo and passenger space in addition to better driving dynamics. We got the chance to take a closer look at the Chicago Auto Show before these SUVs arrive at dealerships later this year. Here's what you should know about their increased space and improved driving dynamics.
2021 Chevy Tahoe
The Chevy Tahoe is currently the best-selling full-size SUV in America, accounting for over 25% of the segment. The redesign for 2021 sets it up to hold onto that title. The wheelbase of the all-new Tahoe grows by 4.9 inches and the overall length grows by 6.7 inches, offering families more space for both passengers and gear.
Whether families plan to use the new Tahoe to drive to soccer games or cross-country road trips, there will be ample cargo space for everyone's sports equipment or luggage. The 2021 Tahoe has a best-in-class 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row which is a 66% increase from the last generation. The maximum cargo space, with all rear seats folded, grows by 30% for a total of 122.9 cubic feet.
Not only will soccer equipment ride in comfort with the increased cargo space, but passengers will also enjoy more space and legroom as a result of the redesign. The longer wheelbase and overall length allow for 10 additional inches of third-row legroom and 3 additional inches of second-row legroom. A lower vehicle load floor allows for a more comfortable seating position and more space for cargo and passengers.
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2021 Chevy Suburban
Not to be outdone by the new Tahoe, the longest-running nameplate in the auto industry, the Chevy Suburban, also gets supersized in the 2021 redesign with a 4.1-inch increase in the wheelbase. The Suburban is ideal for large families, offering the most cargo and passenger space of any SUV on the market. The maximum cargo space grows by 19% for a total of 144.7 cubic feet with all the rear seats folded down. The cargo space behind the third row grows by 2.2 inches for a total of 39.3 cubic feet.
Just like the Tahoe, the Suburban gets a lower load floor to maximize space and comfort. The new Suburban offers passengers increased legroom in the second and third-rows. Second-row passengers will enjoy 42 inches of legroom with an increase of 2.3 inches and third-row passengers get 36.7 inches of legroom after an increase of 2.2 inches. Unlike many 3-row SUV that shortchange the third-row occupants on both space and comfort, the Suburban offers plenty of both for every passenger.
Despite the generous addition to its cargo and passenger space, the increase to the Suburban's overall length only adds up to 1% from the previous generation. This means the vehicle's handling and agility aren't sacrificed in the name of space. In fact, driving dynamics are improved for both the 2021 Suburban and Tahoe.
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Performance Improvements
In addition to the supersized cargo and passenger space, the Tahoe and Suburban get performance upgrades thanks to a new independent multilink rear suspension and a new optional Duramax 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine. The independent multilink rear suspension improves ride quality, steering, and control for both SUVs.
As the only diesel engine available for the full-size SUV segment, the new 3.0L V6 makes 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque to offer a balance of capability and fuel efficiency. The standard engine for the Tahoe and Suburban lineups is a 355 horsepower 5.3L V8, and a 420 horsepower 6.2L V8 is standard on the High Country trims. Dynamic Fuel Management technology allows both engines to optimize efficiency even while towing.
“I think the most impressive aspect of the all-new Tahoe and Suburban is how well they handle,” said Tim Herrick, vice president, global product programs in a Chevy press release. “Despite being big, they offer responsive, confidence-inspiring handling that will change expectations for the full-size SUV driving experience". Arriving in mid-2020, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban are positioned to accommodate drivers and passengers who demand a balance of space and performance.
