2018 Chevy Tahoe – Cincinnati, OH

• Overview

  

  In a segment so oversaturated that the perfect vehicle can be found for nearly every lifestyle and budget, the search for the perfect crossover or SUV can be daunting. While price, aesthetics, features, and performance will certainly come into play – one of the greatest distinguishing factors comes as a combination of size and seating capacity.

  But hand-in-hand with size comes body style. Vehicles using unibody construction to create a more car-like feel and footprint, tend to reflect more of a wagon-inspired styling. While many drivers still demand the truck-inspired body-on-frame design that results in a larger vehicle, overall. Among the latter, the Chevy Tahoe endures as one of the most popular vehicles of the last three decades.

  Now in its fourth-generation, the Tahoe remains as relevant as ever. Earning J.D. Power & Associates’ pick as the ‘Most Dependable Large SUV’, the Tahoe stands proudly as one of the four cornerstones to earn Chevy ‘Most Dependable’ ratings across their entire line two years in a row. Certainly, nothing to shake a stick at, the Tahoe has also garnered a number of awards. Named by Kelley Blue Book as one of their ’12 Best Family Cars’, KBB also celebrates the Tahoe’s ‘5 Year Cost to Own Value’ and ‘Best Resale Value’; while U.S. News & World Report has recognized it as the ‘Best Large SUV for Families’.

  And the 2018 Chevy Tahoe is no exception. Named by edmunds.com as their ‘Most Wanted Large SUV’ it is certainly a worthy successor to the Tahoe’s celebrated legacy. If interested in a 2018 Chevy Tahoe – Cincinnati, OH drivers need to look no further than McCluskey Chevrolet. But let’s take a closer look at this newest entry, and explore the Tahoe’s enduring appeal.

  355

  Horsepower

  383 ft-lb

  Torque

  7.2 Sec

  0-60 MPH

  Starting at

  $47,215

• Technology

  

  Of course, Chevy continues to embrace the expectations of today’s drivers, equipping all vehicle (regardless of price-point or trim level) with impressive technologies. Bluetooth-enabled, the (base) LS trim comes equipped with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, OnStar communication, and teen-driver monitoring.

  The Tahoe features Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system, built around an 8-inch touchscreen interface (with rearview camera) and a six-speaker sound system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Audio. Added functionality comes in the form of a 110-volt household power outlet and five USB ports.

  Additional technologies include the option of Chevy’s Driver Alert package, which includes a number of safety and driver assist features, such as lane departure warning, intervention and forward collision warning with low-speed braking.

  These features are only expanded upon further, as you explore the Tahoe’s higher trim levels and enhancement packages.

• Interior

  

  As one might expect from an upsized SUV, the Tahoe offered a spacious driving position, with plenty of room for adjustment as needed.The design of the dashboard, including the gauge cluster and control panel, speak to a modern design sensibility, reflect strong material choices and confident assembly.

  Complimenting the Tahoe’s nicely-mannered ride quality is a spacious, well-designed cabin. Relatively easy to enter and disembark from, the seating configuration allows for ample space for passengers to navigate between rows.

  Overall, there is little point in debating that the Tahoe offers a strong in-cabin experience.

• Exterior

  

  Harkening back to our mention of body styling, it’s worth noting Chevy’s success at creating a consistent, and fully-realized line-up of on-brand designs. While their offerings are built upon similar design notes, each carries its own distinct personality. From the funky sportiness of the fresh-faced Trax to the intimidating elegance of the iconic Suburban, there is no risk of identity crisis between models.

  In this sense, the Tahoe fills a valuable gap within the large crossover feel of the Traverse, and the truckle Suburban. Separating it from theTraverse, the Tahoe’s size and upscale front fascia create a clear sense of luxury design and execution. And distinguishing it from the excessive nature of the Suburban, the Tahoe’s slight reduction in length creates a sense of refinement.

• Performance

  

  Regardless of trim level, the Tahoe is powered by a 5.3-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Generating 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, the Tahoe can sprint to 60mph in approximate 7.2 seconds, and the four-wheel drive variant is capable of towing 8,600 LBS (when properly equipped).

  There is also the newly-added option of a 6.2-liter V8 (paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission) made available with the 4×4 RST Performance Edition. This ups the Tahoe’s numbers to a whopping 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, while gaining the added benefit of a sport-tuned suspension.

  And if you’re looking for confident off-road capabilities, the Z71 Midnight edition is well-worth exploring, as it restores features such as the low-range transfer use and skill plates absent on standard configurations.

  In terms of overall ride quality, it’s hard to take issue with the Tahoe’s smooth and well-mannered nature. But unlike unibody designs, the Tahoe’s handling and drivability could never be mistaken for that of a car. For many, that might be its most significant selling point.

Chevy Tahoe