If you have been anxiously awaiting the newly remodeled 2021 Tahoe, your wait is over. The all-new 2021 Chevy Tahoe is bursting onto the scene with some exciting changes and major revisions for the new model year. But what exactly is so different about the 2021 Chevy Tahoe vs 2020 Chevy Tahoe? Or any other model years for that matter? In two words: a lot. Chevrolet’s newly overhauled Tahoe created a lot of buzz at its reveal, and automotive journalists took to the web to report the 2021 Tahoe’s dynamic new styling, mirroring the aggressive front end lines of the Silverado 1500, along with a long list of changes, adjustments, and upgrades.
Even though the Tahoe received so many changes with this year’s overhaul that it might be faster to list what has not changed; today, we are going to look at all of the upgrades that were made for the 2021 model year. The all-new 2021 Chevy Tahoe bears little resemblance to its predecessor, and this newer, edgier, more technologically-advanced version shows Chevy’s unwavering commitment to its Tahoe line of trucks. But let’s take a closer look.
Wheelbase and Length are Larger
Chevrolet extended the Tahoe’s wheelbase for 2021, and it is the most significant body change, coming in at a whopping 4.9 inches longer. Not only has the wheelbase increased, but the overall length of the 2021 Chevy Tahoe grows by 6.7 inches, making the total length 210.7 inches. From these changes, the 2021 Tahoe gains 18.2 cubic feet of passenger volume, which means more comfortable seating and added legroom for second and third-row passengers.
But legroom and passenger volume are not the only space improvements that were made to the 2021 Chevy Tahoe. Cargo space jumps by 10.2 cubic feet to 25.5 cubic feet with all three rows of seats in place. With all seats folded down, cargo space skyrockets to 122.9 cubic feet, making Tahoe a hauling workhorse when needed. Overall, these size changes make a huge difference in taking your friends, family, and luggage wherever you need to go.
Tech, Tech, and More Tech!
First off with technology, the new 2021 Tahoe offers a huge, 10-inch touchscreen. Plus, the optional rear entertainment system comes with two 12.6-inch screens that will give the kids a truly cinema-worthy viewing experience. Not enough tech for you yet? Here’s some more: All cameras have been upgraded to high definition for the 2021 model year. And up to nine of those high-def camera views are available on Tahoe.
The vehicle’s technology upgrades are not all immediately visible either. The Tahoe’s automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, rear park assist, and hitch guidance features contribute to an overall safer driver experience and provide a layer of convenience not found on previous model years. Combining these safety features with the array of entertainment technology, it is safe to say that the 2021 Tahoe is filled with useful and fun technologies.
Great, Strong Engines
When looking to purchase a full-size SUV, buyers want to find power, so it is a good thing the 2021 Tahoe can offer that to them. All Tahoes come with the same standard 5.3 Liter gas engine that puts out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, along with a 10-speed automatic transmission, except the top-end High Country, which offers a standard 6.2 Liter V8 gas motor that provides 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. New for 2021, an available turbocharged 3.0 Liter diesel inline-six motor gives Tahoe some additional towing prowess and a horsepower rating of 277 with 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel motor is available on all models except the Z71.
The Tahoe Trims
The Tahoe LS sits at the base of the model lineup, but it has no shortage of standard features. Every 2021 Tahoe LS comes with LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10-inch touchscreen driver information center, and a 4.2-inch gauge cluster display. The included forward collision mitigation warns drivers of an impending collision and can apply the brakes in certain situations. In addition, this model includes a back-up camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and several USB ports for easy connectivity.
Next up, the Tahoe LT includes all the standard equipment found on the LS, plus wireless charging with a cooling feature. LT also includes a hands-free liftgate, standard leather seats, a nine-speaker Bose entertainment system, drive-seat memory settings, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Chevrolet has taken what were previously option packages with the Z71 and RST nameplates and created additional trims with the same names on the upper end of the 2021 Tahoe lineup. The first new trim line for 2021, the Z71 model, equips Tahoe with off-roading features such as 20-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, tow hooks, standard four-wheel drive, and a front skid plate. Chevy has also added a hill descent control feature to this model. The Tahoe RST – short for Rally Sport Truck – gets a fascia upgrade to differentiate it from other trim lines. These vanity features include a dramatic black grille, black chrome trim, and 22-inch alloy wheels, which are a big step up from the standard 18-inch wheels found on the LS and LT models. The interior gets a lift with special RST seats that feature brightly contrasting stitching.
Stepping up to the Tahoe Premier, standard features are much more substantial and include magnetically controlled shock absorbers for better handling, upgraded 8-inch digital instrument panel, second-row bucket seats to replace the standard bench seats (this reduces seating to a total of seven passengers), 10-speaker Bose audio system, blind-spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Finally, coming in at the high end of the model lineup is the fully-equipped Tahoe High Country. This model offers a dynamic list of standard features to justify its price tag of $69,600. First off, the High Country comes standard with Chevy’s 6.2 Liter V8 motor, providing fuel economy of 15 MPG city/20 MPG highway. In addition, you will find a sophisticated surround-view parking camera system, special grille with classy bronze accents, rear pedestrian alert, and a convenient head-up display. But no matter what trim you choose, you are sure to have an array of amazing features.
The Chevy Tahoe
Overall, more than 90% of the completely redesigned 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is brand new. Many of the upgrades consumers have asked for – increased cabin space, more models to choose from, independent rear suspension, updated look – are present on this next generation Tahoe. Chevy has managed this transformation while keeping the lower end trim line pricing consistent and has broadened the range of model options to allow buyers to zero in on the Tahoe that best fits their needs and driving style.
Whether you are looking for an off-road experience, a family-friendly people mover, or a luxury vehicle with high style points, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe family of trucks has an answer for you. This total refresh reinvents the Tahoe and refines the qualities that have made it such a popular choice. Once you experience Tahoe for yourself, it will make choosing another option extremely difficult, because Chevy has created a complete lineup of Tahoe models that will tick the boxes of even the most selective buyers.