| Manufacturer | General Motors |
|---|---|
| Production | 1992–present (Yukon) 1995–present (Tahoe) |
| Predecessor | Chevrolet K-Blazer/GMC K5 Jimmy |
| Class | Full-size SUV |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
The Chevrolet Tahoe (and very similar GMC Yukon) are full-size SUVs from General Motors. Chevrolet and GMC sold two different-sized SUVs under their Blazer/Jimmy model names through the early 1990s. This situation changed when GMC rebadged the full-size Jimmy as the Yukon in 1992. Chevrolet waited until 1994's introduction of a four-door version to rebadge the mid-size S-10 Blazer as the Blazer, renaming the full-size Blazer as the Tahoe.
The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon currently serve as General Motors' full-size SUVs. Lengthened wheelbase models are available for both as the Suburban for the Tahoe and Yukon XL for the Yukon. A luxury Denali model joined the Yukon lineup in 1998. As of 2002, a Denali version of the Yukon XL was also available as the Yukon XL Denali.
|
| Also called | GMC Yukon Chevrolet Silverado (Mexico) Chevrolet Grand Blazer(Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador and Venezuela) Chevrolet Tahoe (Bolivia) |
|---|---|
| Production | Yukon: 1992–1999 Tahoe: 1995–1999 |
| Assembly | Arlington, Texas, United States Janesville, Wisconsin, United States Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico Rosario, Argentina Valencia, Carabobo, Venezuela |
| Body style | 3-door SUV 5-door SUV 6-door SUV |
| Platform | GMT420/430 |
| Engine | 4.1 L Chevrolet Straight-6 5.7 L Small-Block Chevrolet V8 4.0 L Maxion S4T Turbo Diesel 6.5 L Turbo Detroit Diesel V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed 4L60E automatic 4-speed 4L80E automatic 5-speed NV3500 manual |
| Wheelbase | 2-door: 111.5 in (2,832 mm) 4-door: 117.5 in (2,985 mm) |
| Length | 188 in (4,775 mm) (3-door) 199 in (5,055 mm) (5/6-door) |
| Width | 77 in (1,956 mm) |
| Height | 72 in (1,829 mm) |
| Curb weight | 4,500 lb (2,000 kg) (3-door) 5,500 lb (2,500 kg) (5/6-door) |
| Related | Chevrolet/GMC Suburban |
The new GMC Yukon was introduced for 1992, while Chevrolet continued calling their version the Blazer. All were 2-door models through 1994. In 1995 the Chevy changed the name of the Blazer to Tahoe and introduced a 4-door version. The Tahoe was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1996.
The Tahoe/Yukon were shorter than the Suburban on which they were based, but shared that vehicle's GMT400 platform. This was a true truck chassis, and was based on that used in the Chevrolet Silverado full-size pickup truck. Both two-door and four-door models were produced, as well as rear- and four-wheel drive. The two door weighs roughly 4500 pounds while the four door weighs approximately 5500 pounds. "AutoTrac" full-time all-wheel drive and a programmable Homelink transmitter were added for 1998. The upscale Denali trim line to the Yukon appeared around this time as the vehicles became popular with wealthy families.
The standard engine was Chevrolet's 5.7 L (350 cu in) LO5 small-block V8, while a turbocharged 6.5 L (395 cu in) Detroit Diesel V8 was available beginning in 1994.[1]
In Mexico, the Tahoe 2-door was released in 1995, called the Chevrolet Silverado, and in 1998 the 4-door was released as the Silverado 4-door, and both were available in Base, LS and luxury LT trim lines. In Venezuela, the Tahoe 2-door was released in 1993 (Only 4WD), called the Chevrolet Grand Blazer, and in 1996 the 4-door was released as the Grand Blazer 4-door (2WD). In 1996 the 2 Doors was discontinued. In 1996 only Grand Blazer 4-doors 4WD is available. In Bolivia, 1995 the 4-door was released as the Tahoe 4-door (4WD) build in USA.
Beginning in 1994, GM began making numerous annual changes to the Blazer/Yukon, including:
When the GMT800 platform based Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon was released for the 2000 model year, a 2WD Tahoe Limited and 4WD Tahoe Z71 remained in production on the GMT400 platform as special edition vehicles. These special edition vehicles were produced in the Arlington, Texas assembly plant for the 2000 model year only.
The Chevrolet Tahoe Limited was based on the Chevrolet Tahoe SS concept vehicle introduced in 1996 that never made it to production. It is reported that GM disliked the idea of an SS badged vehicle at a time when insurance companies were already demanding higher premiums for SUVs.[2] The Tahoe SS prototype vehicles made in 1996 were painted either an unspecified metallic green or metallic blue, but the Tahoe Limited was produced only in black onyx metallic. The Tahoe Limited had a distinctive exterior appearance that included a factory equipped ground effects, a monochromatic theme with bumpers and grille painted in the same high gloss black as the body, removal of the roof rack, and fog lamps integrated into the front bumper. Other notable features of the Tahoe Limited included the Z60 high performance chassis package (commonly known as the police package) which places the body of the vehicle 2 inches lower than the 4WD Tahoe, two tone gray and charcoal leather interior seating surfaces, a 120 mph (190 km/h) gauge cluster, 46mm Bilstein shock absorbers, a 3.42 or optional 3.73 rear gear ratio, a limited slip rear differential, an engine oil cooling system, and distinctive 16 inch Ronal R36 five spoke aluminum wheels.
The Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 also exhibited a monochromatic appearance similar to the Tahoe Limited, but instead of black onyx metallic the Tahoe Z71 was offered in either light pewter metallic, victory red, emerald green metallic, or indigo blue metallic. Features of the Tahoe Z71 were similar to those of the Tahoe Limited with a few key differences to distinguish the 2WD Tahoe Limited from the 4WD Tahoe Z71. Features that differ from those previously mentioned on the Tahoe Limited included the Z71 off road chassis package, two tone leather seating surfaces in either a gray or neutral theme, a standard 3.73 rear gear ratio, distinctive tail lamp lens covers, tubular side assist step bars, brush guard, body colored fender flares, and distinctive 16 inch Alcoa five spoke polished aluminum wheels.
The L31 5.7L Vortec V8 powerplant and 4L60E four speed automatic transmission shared with other GMT400 Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles were not modified in these special edition vehicles, and as such these special editions were mostly appearance packages.
| Year | Engine | Power | Torque | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992–1995 | 5.7 L 350 TBI V8 | 200 hp (149 kW) | 310 lb·ft | |
| 1994–1998 | 6.5 L Detroit Diesel V8 | 180 hp (134 kW) | 2-door 4WD Tahoe only | |
| 1996–1999 | 5.7 L Vortec 5700 V8 | 255 hp (190 kW) | 335 lb·ft |
| Also called | GMC Yukon Chevrolet Sonora (Mexico) |
|---|---|
| Production | 2000–2006 |
| Assembly | Janesville, Wisconsin, United States Arlington, Texas, United States Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico Kaliningrad, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia[3] |
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Platform | GM GMT800 platform |
| Engine | 4.8 L 275 hp (205 kW) V8 5.3 L 285 hp (213 kW) V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed 4L60-E automatic |
| Wheelbase | 116.0 in (2,946 mm) |
| Length | 2000–01 Tahoe & 2000–06 Yukon & Denali: 198.9 in (5,052 mm) 2002–03 Tahoe: 196.9 in (5,001 mm) 2004–06 Tahoe: 198.8 in (5,050 mm) |
| Width | 78.9 in (2,004 mm) |
| Height | 74.2-76.7 in (1885-1948 mm) |
| Related | Chevrolet Suburban GMC Yukon XL Cadillac Escalade Hummer H2 |
Other than the Tahoe Limited Edition, the vehicle was redesigned for the 2000 model year on the new GMT800 platform, still shared with the full-sized pickups. Two new engines replaced the old 5.7 L (350ci) small-block V8, and while both were smaller, both produced more power. The manual transmission was dropped, leaving only the automatic transmission. In Mexico, the GMT800 Chevy Tahoe is called a Chevrolet Sonora. A 2 door GMT800 Tahoe prototype was made but never entered production.
Both vehicles received significant updates with only the grille and headlights distinguishing one from the other. Both vehicles now featured softer lines as part of a more aerodynamic design. The interior was also updated with new seats, dashboard, and door panels.
"StabiliTrak" stability control was offered for the first time in 2003, as were XM Satellite Radio, Bose audio, and a DVD entertainment system as the models continued to climb upmarket. Both engines received 10 hp (7.5 kW) more for 2004. It was the first generation of Tahoe, where the FlexFuel engine was available.
| Year | Displacement | Engine | Power | Torque | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000–2005 | 4.8 L | Vortec 4800 V8 | 275 hp (205 kW) | ||
| 2000–2003 | 5.3 L | Vortec 5300 V8 | 280-285 hp (213 kW) | 325-330 lb·ft | |
| 2004–2006 | 4.8 L | Vortec 4800 V8 | 285 hp (213 kW) | ||
| 2004–2006 | 5.3 L | Vortec 5300 V8 | 295 hp (220 kW) | FlexFuel |
4800 [edit]LR4 The Vortec 4800 LR4 is a Generation III small block V8 truck engine. Displacement is 4.8 L (290 cu in) with a 96.01 mm (3.78 inch) bore and 83 mm (3.27 inch) stroke. It is the smallest of the Generation III Vortec truck engines and was the replacement for the 5.0 L 5000 L30. The LR4 produces 370 horsepower (280 kW) to 390 horsepower (290 kW) and 385 lbf·ft (522 N·m) to 405 lbf·ft (549 N·m), depending on the model year and application. LR4s are manufactured at St. Catharines, Ontario and Romulus, Michigan. LR4 applications: 1999 & 2002–2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006 Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon [edit]
| Also called | GMC Yukon |
|---|---|
| Production | 2007–present |
| Assembly | Janesville, Wisconsin, United States Arlington, Texas, United States Kaliningrad, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia[3]/[4] |
| Platform | GMT921/922 (GMT920) |
| Engine | 4.8 L V8 5.3 L V8 6.2 L V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed 4L60-E automatic 6-speed 6L80 automatic |
| Wheelbase | 116.0 in (2,946 mm) |
| Length | 202.0 in (5,131 mm) |
| Width | 79.0 in (2,007 mm) |
| Height | 74.6-77.0 in (1895–1956 mm) |
| Related | Chevrolet Suburban GMC Yukon XL Cadillac Escalade |
General Motors redesigned the Tahoe and Yukon on the new GMT900 platform in late 2005 as a 2007 model. A hybrid version of the Yukon, which uses the shared GM/Chrysler Advanced Hybrid System 2, followed with the 2008 models. The GMT900 based Tahoe and Yukon exceeded initial sales expectations and continue to sell well despite a weakening market for large SUVs. For the first time, GM used the Tahoe name in Mexico.
For 2007 the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe received different front fascias and hood. The GMC Yukon features a monolithic grille and headlights, while the Chevrolet Tahoe grille is divided by a body colored bar similar to the chrome bar found on most GMT800 Tahoes. While the Tahoe's hood now features a design attribute obtruding from its otherwise smooth contour, the Yukon features a smooth hood with two slight curves on both sides of the hood. Both the new Yukon and Tahoe feature a more angular design that gives the vehicles a more upscale appearance. The interior was significantly redesigned as well. It features a new real wooded trim dashboard with new chrome accented instrument controls. New door panels as well as new seats were also added to the interior.
Short-wheelbase and police Tahoe production began at Arlington Assembly on December 1, 2005. SWB Yukon production began in early 2006, with Janesville Assembly coming on line as well. Long-wheelbase versions began at Janesville and Silao Assembly in March.
Highway mileage has improved from 19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km) to 21-22 mpg (11.2 L/100 km) with the addition of Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Both the old and new versions get 15-16 mpg (15.7 L/100 km) in town.
The 2007 Tahoe was featured on, and promoted through Donald Trump's The Apprentice, where the two teams put together a show for the top General Motors employees to learn about the new Tahoe. Also, The Apprentice sponsored an online contest where entrants could create their own commercial for the new Tahoe.
For 2009, the 6.2 L engine in the Yukon Denali got a power increase to 403 hp (301 kW), while a 395 hp (295 kW) 6.2 L was added as an option for the Tahoe LTZ. A 6-speed 6L80 automatic transmission replaced the 4-speed on all trucks except 2WD models with the 4.8 L engine.
2010 models underwent a mild mid-cycle refresh including a slightly raised bumper, revised door trim, improved side structure, and side torso air bags.
The Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and the Cadillac Escalade will be overhauled when the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado debuts, likely in 2013, and although rumours were the vehicles could go to monocoque crossovers, those were shelved, as General Motors plans to add to the traditional body-on-frame truck-based SUV, as the 2012 Chevrolet Colorado-based Trailblazer is debuting in 2013 for international markets, and the Colorado debuting in 2013 for North America, and truck owners wanting a smaller truck-based SUV, instead of the monocoque crossover.
| Year | Engine | Power | Torque | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007– | 4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8 | 295 hp (220 kW) | 305 lb·ft (414 N·m) | |
| 2007– | 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 | 320 hp (239 kW) | 340 lb·ft (461 N·m) | standard on 2WD models |
| 2007– | 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 | 320 hp (239 kW) | 340 lb·ft (461 N·m) | FlexFuel; standard on 4WD models |
| 2007–08 | 6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8 | 380 hp (283 kW) | 417 lb·ft (565 N·m) | Yukon Denali |
| 2009– | 6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8 | 403 hp (Denali)/395 hp (Tahoe) | 417 lb·ft (565 N·m) | Yukon Denali, Tahoe LTZ |
The GMC Denali nameplate started as the luxury version of the Yukon for the 1998 model year. The Denali trim is as in the GMC Envoy available on both standard and XL versions.
In 1998, at the time of its introduction, the Yukon Denali was GM's answer to the Lincoln Navigator, but then GM introduced a clone to the Yukon Denali and rebadged it "Escalade" under the Cadillac nameplate. The Yukon Denali's exterior was shared with the Cadillac Escalade, with the entire front clip and lower side body panels differing from the standard Yukon. In the interior, however, the Denali features luxury options not available in the Yukon. These included an upgraded leather interior, power seats, heated seats front and rear, Bose stereo system, and some woodgrain on the dashboard.
Even though the Yukon was redesigned alongside the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe in 2000, the Denali and Escalade retained their 1990s base design. It was not until 2001 that the Denali and Escalade were redesigned. While the Escalade departed from its Yukon based exterior design scheme in attempt to hide its roots, the Yukon Denali's exterior is almost the same as that of a post-2000 GMT400 model year Yukon. Embossed side body panels and slightly reworked headlights with projector-beam lenses along with 17" polished wheels and different grille and front bumper differentiate the Yukon Denali from the regular Yukon. 2001 also saw the introduction of the billet grille which now has become the hallmark of the Denali nameplate.
The Yukon Denali was redesigned for the 2007 model year alongside the regular mainstream Yukon. The biggest change was in the styling, such as the flattened tailgate reminiscent of the new Tahoe, and particularly the grill and headlight shapes, which made the Yukon look less aggressive than previous models. The only exterior difference between the Yukon Denali and the standard Yukon are the chrome grille and extensive use of chrome accents; and of course the insignias, embeveled rockerpanels, chromed headlights and the Vortec 6200 engine which it shares with the Cadillac Escalade.
The Tahoe made its hybrid electric debut in fall 2007.[5] In January, 2008, starting price was US$50,540.[6] The starting price of the 2009 model was increased to US$51,405.[7]
The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid uses a combination of its dual displacement 3.0/6.0-liter V8 engine and two 60 kW (continuous) electric motors that charge a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery. The vehicle can run on either gasoline, electricity or a mixture of the two using automatic Two-Mode Hybrid system that monitors the vehicle's torque, and state of the battery to choose the most efficient source of power. The battery is charged either directly by generating electricity through driving one or both electric motors using the gasoline engine (while the vehicle is coasting or being driven by the gasoline engine), or by the wheels driving one or both electric motors through what is called "Regenerative braking" when the vehicle is decelerating, thus regaining some of the energy invested in forward momentum. The Tahoe is considered a strong or full hybrid, in that it can run entirely on the battery (for a limited range) at low speeds. In city driving, the EPA rating of fuel consumption for the 2WD version of the hybrid is 21 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg-imp). In comparison, non-hybrid varieties of the Tahoe are rated no higher than 15 mpg in city driving. In highway driving, the EPA rating is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).[8]
The 2007 Tahoe was featured on and promoted through Donald Trump's TV series, The Apprentice, where the two teams put together a show for the top General Motors employees to learn about the new Tahoe. Also, The Apprentice sponsored an online contest in which anyone could create a commercial for the new Tahoe by entering text captions into the provided video clips; the winner's ad would air on national television. This viral marketing campaign initially appeared to backfire however, when hundreds of environmentally conscious parodies flooded YouTube and Chevy's website critiquing the vehicle for its low gas mileage. Over 400 negative ads were created in total, however over 20,000 positive ads were created making the campaign, according to Chevrolet, a success,[9] despite the negative media attention.[10]
In Brazil the Tahoe GMT400 was sold under the name of "Grand Blazer". The GMT400 is used by Brazilian elite police units, such as the BOPE (Batalhão de Operações Policiais Especiais) in Rio de Janeiro and the ROTA (Rondas Ostensivas Tobias de Aguiar) and GATE (Grupo de Ações Taticas Especiais) in São Paulo. It is also used by the São Paulo State Police and the Rio Grande do Sul State Police. But as the cars grew old, the great majority of them were substituted, mainly by smaller Chevrolet Blazers, the only midsize SUV currently offered by GM in Brazil.
In North America, the Tahoe is used by many law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies. Chevrolet currently offers two versions of the police package Tahoe; a four-wheel drive version and a two-wheel drive version.
Chevrolet refers to the four-wheel drive (4WD) version as "Special Service Vehicle" (SSV). This version of the Tahoe can be used for all purposes except pursuits and high speed responses due to its high center of gravity, thus having a higher probability of rolling-over at high speeds. This version is preferred by agencies where snow, ice, flooding, rough terrain, and ground clearance are common issues.[11]
Chevrolet refers to the two-wheel drive (2WD) version - also known as the rear-wheel drive (RWD) version - as "Police Pursuit Vehicle" (PPV). This version of the Tahoe can be used for all purposes including pursuits and high speed responses. The center of gravity in this vehicle is lower than that of the four-wheel drive version and the ground clearance is about one inch less. Highway patrol agencies prefer the two-wheel drive version, where pursuits and long distance responses are more common. It should be noted that the two wheel drive Chevrolet Tahoe is the only pursuit rated SUV on the market today. Other SUVs like the Ford Expedition are used by many law enforcement and EMS agencies, but are not pursuit rated...[12]
| Calendar Year | Tahoe | GMC Yukon | Total U.S. sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1998[13] | 133,235 | 49,355 | 182,590 |
| 1999 | 122,213 | 53,280 | 175,493 |
| 2000[14] | 149,834 | 56,297 | 206,131 |
| 2001 | 202,319 | 77,254 | 279,573 |
| 2002[15] | 209,767 | 76,488 | 286,255 |
| 2003 | 199,065 | 86,238 | 285,303 |
| 2004[16] | 186,161 | 86,571 | 272,732 |
| 2005 | 152,307 | 73,458 | 225,765 |
| 2006[17] | 161,491 | 71,476 | 232,967 |
| 2007 | 146,259 | 63,428 | 209,687 |
| 2008[18] | 91,578 | 39,064 | 130,642 |
| 2009[19] | 73,254 | 29,411 | 102,665 |
| 2011[20] | 80,527 | 34,250 | 114,777 |
| Type | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | 2010s | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | |
| Compact crossover | Captiva Sport | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size crossover | Equinox | Equinox | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size crossover | Traverse | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compact SUV | S-10 Blazer | Tracker | Tracker | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size SUV | Blazer | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TrailBlazer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size SUV | K5 Blazer | Blazer | Tahoe | Tahoe | Tahoe | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Suburban | Suburban | Suburban | Suburban | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SUT | Avalanche | Avalanche | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Coupe utility | El Camino | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compact pickup | LUV | S-10 | S-10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size pickup | Colorado | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size pickup | C/K | C/K | Silverado | Silverado | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Minivan | Lumina APV | Venture | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Uplander | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Van | Astro | Astro | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Van | Express | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beauville | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Type | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | 2010s | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | |
| Mid-size crossover | Terrain | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size crossover | Acadia | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size SUV | S-15 Jimmy | Jimmy | Envoy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Typhoon | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size SUV | K5 Jimmy | Yukon | Yukon | Yukon | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Suburban | Suburban | Yukon XL | Yukon XL | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Coupé utility | Caballero | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compact pickup | S-15 Sonoma | Sonoma | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Syclone | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size pickup | Canyon | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size pickup | C/K | Sierra | Sierra | Sierra | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Van | Safari | Safari | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| G-Series | Savana | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
