For buyers looking for the power of the Chevy Suburban but in a smaller package, the option may be the 2013 Chevy Tahoe. Although the difference is only about two feet in size, the Chevy Tahoe is the Suburban’s little brother that is football player sized. This sport utility vehicle sports a lot of power for its size. The Tahoe has multiple engine and transmission options, all of which provide tremendous power and smooth shifting. It’s a combination that’s fast yet powerful. In keeping with power in a smaller package, the Tahoe is a tough vehicle that can handle a variety of towing with its improved braking system. For the fuel economy minded, the Tahoe comes in a hybrid model with good mileage. It’s also easy on the eyes with a new selection of exterior colors. There is a reason why the Chevrolet Tahoe has been a perennial favorite for almost 20 years. It is a perfect combination of power, utility, comfort, and versatility. It is ideal for a family and a great fit for the adventure seeker. The 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe is a top-of-the-line SUV.
New For 2013
Powertrain-grade braking can now be activated in normal transmission mode (previously it was only possible in Tow/Haul mode). On downhill grades, the transmission downshifts to lessen the need for long braking applications and to reduce rotor strain. Champagne silver metallic, concord metallic and blue ray metallic exterior colors are new.
Exterior
As mentioned earlier, the Tahoe has new exterior colors. The metallic choices update Tahoe’s exterior colors and give it a more contemporary feel. There were no major design changes for the model in 2013, yet the Tahoe still has a handsome look. Its external treatments don’t diminish the Tahoe’s competitiveness with its rivals. The sport utility offers four trim packages: LS, LT, LTZ, and the Hybrid. All Tahoe models are rugged and bold, with distinct lines up the side panels and across the hood. Small touches like chrome door handles add a touch of flair. There is a myriad of wheel options available on the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe: 19-, 20-, or 21-inch; alloy or chrome. All in all, the Tahoe is a very masculine, subtly stylish SUV.
Interior & Cargo
The interior space in the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe brings the timeless SUV design into the modern realm. Standard creature comforts include cruise control, a front console with storage, front door pockets, cup holders for all seats, power steering, seatback storage, tilt-adjustable steering, audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel, OnStar integration, dual-zone air-conditioning, cargo area lighting, simulated alloy interior trim, front and rear reading lights, and a leather-clad steering wheel. Adjustable power driver and passenger seats and premium cloth upholstery also come in the basic package. Interior options include chrome mirror caps, a front console organizer, all-weather floor mats, and heated seats. The LT adds a sun sensor, simulated wood trim, a leather and simulated-alloy steering wheel, Sirius XM satellite radio, USB connectivity, and nine total speakers. When combined with its very generous interior space and seating capacity, the long list of interior features for the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe makes it a dream to drive and ride in. It makes an excellent all-around vehicle, inside and out.
Safety
The 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe’s safety features are standard for its class—passenger, side and side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitors, traction and stability control. Also standard on all Tahoe models include the rear collision alarm and rear view camera. Buyers who purchase the LTZ trim package also add the blind spot alarm. With the ability to activate the powertrain grade braking system from normal transmission, the feature is also a very useful safety feature. It reduces rotor strain and long braking on downhill grades. OnStar with accident assistance is standard on the four Tahoe models as well.
Driving Experience
The 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe enjoys solid on-road handling and is built for heavy-duty tasks. It can handle highway and city driving. And, it can switch to off-road driving with ease. The Tahoe driving experience is much like its bigger sibling, the Chevy Suburban. Anything the larger model can do, the Tahoe is just as capable of doing, just in a slightly smaller package. However, the Hybrid’s brakes were reported to be grabby, particularly at low speeds. The Tahoe comes in rear-wheel and four-wheel drive choices. The Tahoe is more suitable for utility tasks rather than comfort. Although it’s known better for its utility features, its V-8 engine accelerates and powers the Tahoe with ease.
As mentioned earlier, the Tahoe is a workhorse. It can handle hauling loads uphill and driving over diverse terrains. The Hybrid enjoys the best mileage of the models. What’s more, the Hybrid Tahoe has the best mileage for this class. This sport utility vehicle can run on electricity alone at low speeds. On the highway, the Hybrid can run on electric or gas or in combination. With the addition of Active Fuel Management, its highway mileage improves even more. With Active Fuel Management, four of the engine’s cylinders shut down when not needed. The smoothest and most comfortable driving comes with the LTZ, the top model in the line. Overall, the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe is a tank on or off the road.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe
- Ford Expedition
- GMC Yukon
- Nissan Armada
- Toyota Sequoia