Full-size SUVs like the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Rst have been making drivers and passengers happy for years with their performance and style. With significant changes to both its general design and performance capabilities, the Tahoe enters its fifth generation in 2021. The 2021 Tahoe now offers an optional 3.0 liter Duramax diesel engine. This engine can produce 277 horsepower. Starting with the 2020 model year, every powertrain is compatible with the fourth generation and higher. A revised rear suspension system substantially improves the performance of the 2021 Tahoe. Its independent suspension offers better handling and overall comfort on the road.
One of the most popular models for the Chevrolet brand overall has been the Tahoe. The large three-row is an effective sales tool and a popular choice for fleet services like police, fire, and others. The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is huge and sleek, quite pleasant to drive, and gives a ton of interior space, and it seems like much of the same wonderful thing. However, we feel that the RST model in particular, the one that we evaluated, sort of falls short.
Even though it’s a cliche, the all-new Chevy Tahoe truly is the latest and finest. The shorter version of the equally new Chevy Suburban, the three-row SUV has a fresh exterior and modern interior. The third row and cargo compartment of the 2021 Tahoe have both increased in size, in addition to the exterior dimensions. This is mainly because its independent rear suspension, which addresses the problems with the previous version, was introduced. It has a larger cabin and two reliable V-8 engines in addition to a torquey diesel, which helped it win an Editors’ Choice award. Additionally, there are numerous driver assistance options and well-liked entertainment features that should please large families.
What is New in the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe?
Chevy has revised the look and size of this well-liked vehicle in addition to these modifications to the 2021 Tahoe. The 2021 Tahoe is both bigger and longer than the 2020 Tahoe. These additional dimensions change the exterior design while expanding the interior’s space. It keeps its boxy appearance, and some trim levels add quad exhaust tips. It also moves the rear wheelbase further back at the same time. More pronounced LED lights border the grille design, which is a feature.
Dual entertainment system screens in the second row, a 10.25-inch screen positioned in the dashboard as standard equipment in all trims, a push-button gear selector, and other features are some of the new interior improvements for the 2021 model year.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Rst: Design
Compared to its predecessor, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe has a lot more daring appearance. The big center grille is flawlessly encircled by narrow LED headlights with sharply kinked LED accents on the front end. The RST variant continues the blacked-out elements to the rear with gloss black highlights and smoked light fixtures. It also offers approximately a dozen 22-inch wheel options that are unique to this trim. Overall, the Tahoe RST has a rugged appearance.
Sadly, there is less cause for celebration inside Tahoe’s cabin. The vehicle features a 10.2-inch tablet-shaped touchscreen in the center dash, with various buttons and dials strategically arranged underneath. The RST model features jet-black leather and minimal red stitching on the dashboard, steering wheel, and other areas. It’s fine, but fairly simple. Additionally, the button-style shifter to the left of the main screen is inconvenient to use and looks strange.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Rst: Comfort
It feels wonderful to rest your rump on the leather seats. Although the black cowhide doesn’t seem very fascinating, it is really high-quality. The $2,820 Luxury package gives the seat power adjustment and a memory feature, making them soft and supportive. A power-adjustable and heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, heated power side mirrors, and a few other features are also included with the Luxury package.
Given its size, the Tahoe naturally has a ton of internal space. Some of the greatest measurements in the class include the 42.3-inch front headroom and the 44.5-inch front legroom.
In contrast, the Tahoe outperforms rivals like the Nissan Armada (40.9 / 41.9 inches) and Ford Expedition (42.0 / 43.9 inches) by a significant margin. Both the second row’s 44.5 inches and the third row’s 34.9 inches of legroom are among the best in their respective classes. The quick-folding captain’s chairs also make it quite simple to reach the third row.
However, one feature that Chevy offers as an option on other Tahoe models is Magnetic Ride Control, which we wish the RST model had. We’re not claiming the RST has severe ride quality; the new independent rear suspension undoubtedly contributes to the improvement over the live rear axle of its predecessor. Unfortunately, Magnetic Ride Control is not an option here, despite our knowledge from prior tests that it is the best setting.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Rst: Technology
The Tahoe’s technology is recognizable, except for its larger 10.2-inch screen, which is larger than those found in some other Chevy models. It’s a good thing that the operating system of SUVs like the Blazer and trucks as the Silverado transfers across. Icons on the home screen are sharp, clear, and color-coordinated. The $2,490 Rear Media and Navigation package includes cordless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as baked-in navigation. Overall, it’s a simple and intuitive operating system.
If technology is your strong suit, you should sit on the second row. The previously mentioned Rear Media and Navigation package adds two 12.6-inch touchscreens to the front seatbacks, allowing second-row passengers access to features like USB video and audio, HDMI inputs (think: video games), and the ability to input navigation functions, which are then displayed on the front touchscreen for the driver to approve or disapprove.
Performance
The 5.3-liter V8 engine that powers the Tahoe RST is rated at 355 horsepower and 338 pound-feet. The engine, coupled with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, offers ample low-end torque and powerful power for easy driving of this large SUV. Although strong and responsive, this engine doesn’t feel particularly unique. This 5.3-liter V8 engine is practically the same as in previous models, and it still has a rough, truck-like personality. We still want the 6.2-liter engine from the previous model or even the Silverado’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine.
The RST edition of the Tahoe receives a mechanical limited-slip differential coupled with this generation’s new independent rear suspension system and conventional coil-over shocks, as it is the “sportiest” Tahoe of the bunch. The three-row can be thrown into a bend with some confidence because of its quick and well-weighted handling. The Tahoe RST is surprisingly planted for a truck-based three-row, with body roll as expected. However, it is significantly less annoying than Tahoe’s of previous years.
Safety
Basic safety features include a frontal collision warning system with automated emergency braking when traveling at less than 50 mph and a following distance indicator that displays the distance in seconds between your car and the vehicle you are trailing. However, the Luxury option, which adds blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist with a lane departure warning, will set you back $2,820 if you like more active equipment. And each of those systems functions effectively and as planned.
The most valued aspect of the Tahoe, however, is its parking capabilities, which include front and rear assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and most significantly, a 360-degree high-definition video. With those characteristics, parking this huge SUV is a lot simpler.
Fuel Economy
The Chevy Tahoe RST has above-average fuel efficiency for its class, averaging 16 cities, 20 highways, and 18 combined. The only vehicle that is more efficient than the Tahoe (19 combined) is the Ford Expedition, which outperforms both the Toyota Sequoia (14 combined) and the Nissan Armada (15 combined).
Summary
With more room and modern features than before, the new Tahoe reaffirms its position as the best large SUV on the market. Along with their GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade relatives, they have all undergone a thorough redesign for 2021, providing them the chance to surpass the recently updated Ford versions.
Also, Read
- How long can I drive with a bad wheel bearing?
- 12 Essential Car Sensors
- 8 Best Drying Towels For Cars
- Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic – 5 Great Differences
- Grease Gun: Top 8 Picks