For more than thirty years, the Chevy Tahoe has been a powerful player in the SUV market, earning the title of America’s best-selling full-sized SUV. Due to Chevrolet’s focus on comfort, technology, and strength, it’s no surprise that drivers often opt for the Tahoe when searching for a new vehicle. In 2019, J.D. Power awarded the Tahoe first place in an Initial Quality Study. The Tahoe was proven to have the lowest reported rate of problems among large SUVs within the first 90 days of ownership. This award is calculated based on the number of issues experienced per 100 vehicles. Judging by its strong legacy since the 1990s, the 2020 Chevy Tahoe is expected to continue with high ranking sales among Americans all across the country.
The Tahoe’s Rise to Power
The Chevy Tahoe was developed in the 1990s, after some rebranding of the Blazer. Its name was inspired by the famous Lake Tahoe, extolling the western mystique of rugged and scenic beauty. The Tahoe gained early fame in 1996 when Motor Trend magazine named it the “Truck of the Year.” Through the 2000s, it underwent several different remodels. Upgrades to technology, design, and mechanics allowed it to adapt and stay relevant to newer generations. Additions like Sirius XM and Satellite Radio, OnStar Technology, and improved fuel efficiency helped the Tahoe hold on to its top spot on the sales charts.
In 2006, the Chevy Tahoe gained some additional fame and notoriety after being featured in the hit television series, The Apprentice. Two teams of contestants competed against each other while putting on a show to teach General Motors employees about the new 2007 Model. An online contest, sponsored by The Apprentice, challenged at-home viewers to caption video clips about the Tahoe for the chance to create a winning advertisement that would be used for television commercials. This user-generated marketing prompted over 20,000 submitted ads and increased media focus and attention on the Tahoe for viewers around the country.
In 2014, Marvel’s Captain America film, The Winter Soldier, featured a Chevy Tahoe during a big-screen car chase. The Tahoe’s popularity on-screen was mirrored by everyday drivers based on steady sales throughout the decades. In February 2014, the Chevy Tahoe was named as the top-ranked, affordable large SUV by U.S. News & World Report. It has seen continued success throughout the years, sometimes exceeding the competition in sales by a large margin of 2 to 1.
A Bold Show of Strength
Packages available for the 2020 Chevy Tahoe include the 2WD and Max Trailering Package, which enables the vehicle to tow up to 8,600 lbs. Standard models feature a 5.3-liter V8 engine with best-in-class fuel efficiency. Drivers can expect up to 22 miles per gallon for highway driving in this large SUV. The 5.3-liter EcoTech3 V8 engine provides 355 horsepower 383 lb-ft torque. For those looking to boost the power, the option to opt for a 6.2-liter V8 engine is available with a Premium upgrade.
Safety Features
In an effort to stay one step ahead of the potential dangers on the road, the new Chevy Tahoe boasts the availability of seven key safety features. Automatic Emergency Braking gives drivers a heads up if a front-end crash seems unavoidable. This strengthens the power and response of emergency braking to help reduce or avoid accidents altogether. Forward Collision Alert notifies drivers if they are following too close, with either an audible beep or the option for a Safety Alert Seat (that pulses for alerts instead of making a noise).
A Standard Rear Vision Camera makes backing up a breeze by providing a clear view of the surrounding area. Through audible beeps or seat pulses, drivers can also be warned about traffic coming from the right or left while in reverse. This is called the Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and provides warning triangles on the rear camera screen to indicate the direction of traffic. Standard Rear Park Assist provides distance alerts to reduce the likelihood of bumping into an object when backing up.
While driving on roadways, the Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert reduces crashes during lane changes. This technology provides a warning to drivers when it is not safe to change lanes. Oncoming traffic moving at fast speeds or another driver in the Tahoe’s blind spot will trigger an alert. Given the large size of the Tahoe, these safety features can make a big difference in assisting drivers by providing greater control and visibility.
A Focus on Comfort and Convenience
The 2020 Chevy Tahoe is 74.4 inches tall and 204 inches long. It provides plenty of interior space for drivers and passengers with 45.3 inches of legroom for those sitting in the front seats, along with 42.8 inches of headroom and 64.8 inches of shoulder room. It seats up to nine passengers, with plenty of room for family and friends. Seating is made with premium stitching and craftsmanship. Ventilated front (and second-row optional) bucket seats come with adjustable heating controls to keep everyone happy on long rides.
No one will go without power in the 2020 Tahoe, with up to seven USB ports and a wireless charging pad available. Despite its large size and powerful engine, drivers can enjoy a quiet ride in the Tahoe thanks to its noise reduction features. An acoustic-laminated windshield and inlaid triple sealed-doors keep the interior of the car quiet, despite noisy construction or traffic outdoors. There is a max volume of 94.7 cubic feet of cargo space available when you fold down the second and third rows of seats. With plenty of room for your next road trip or move it’s no wonder the Tahoe has become a fan favorite.
Comparing Models
The 2020 Chevy Tahoe is available in nine classic colors. For a starting value of $48,000, the LS Tahoe offers the standard 5.3-liter EcoTech3 V8 engine. This model includes Active Fuel Management, Direct Injection, and Variable Valve Timing. The Chevy Infotainment System with color touchscreen is part of any package. All passengers can ride comfortably with Tri-zone automatic climate controls and fold-flat second and third-row seats for variable seating configurations.
The middle model, the LT, starts at $53,000. By upgrading from the LS, you get leather-appointed seats and heated front bucket seats with memory technology. The power liftgate also has a programmable height feature. Safety bonuses like Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning give drivers added confidence while commanding this powerful, large SUV on the road.
Premier Chevy Tahoe owners can upgrade to a bigger 6.2-liter engine and impressive 20-inch wheels. Front and Rear Park Assist help drivers accurately maneuver and reduce the risk of potential accidents. Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert is also available to provide full control of the Tahoe. This model starts at $62,700. No matter your budget, there’s a Tahoe for every household.
Conclusion
The Chevy Tahoe has a long track record of strong sales and solid performance. Its continued popularity among drivers offers promising expectations for the future success of this vehicle. With Americans looking for ample space, reasonable fuel efficiency, and high-tech safety features, the Tahoe hits the mark on many of the top priorities consumers want. Its affordability speaks to the average American looking for an option that combines the power and durability of a truck with the comforts and amenities of a family-friendly vehicle.
