Most significant changes: Increased availability for 6.2-liter V-8 engine; larger, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster now standard from LT trim up; Z71 gets available electronic limited-slip differential; new standard safety features
Pricing: Increase across all trims ranging from $600 (base LS) to $1,475 for (RST)
On sale: Now
Which should you buy, 2021 or 2022? The 2021 model offers a better value for shoppers who can forgo the available 6.2-liter V-8 — especially in LT, Z71 and RST form, which see the largest price increases for 2022. Model-year 2021 examples could be difficult to come by, however, as they accounted for just 8% of new Tahoe inventory among Cars.com dealers in January 2022.
Chevrolet redesigned the Tahoe SUV for 2021 along with its extended-length sibling, the Suburban. The current Tahoe offers more space, a slew of technology and safety features, and a choice of three engines, including two V-8s and a turbo-diesel six-cylinder. The truck-based family hauler rolls into 2022 with expanded engine availability, plus more standard safety and connectivity features. It still comes in six trim levels, however: LS, LT, Z71, RST, Premier and High Country.
What’s New for 2022?
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 | Cars.com photo by Aaron Bragman
The SUV’s most powerful engine, a 6.2-liter V-8, will now be offered across more trim levels. Previously available only for the range-topping High Country, the 6.2-liter now will also be available on the RST, Z71 and Premier trims. Additionally, the off-road-oriented Z71 now comes with an available electronic limited-slip differential that improves power distribution to the wheels with the most traction.
The 2022 model year also adds new tech and safety features. LT models and above feature a larger, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a standard Google suite of apps, the latter accessible without needing to connect a smartphone. All models get four additional trailering camera views that include a new transparent trailer feature.
Powertrains
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe | Manufacturer image
A standard 355-horsepower, 5.3-liter V-8 engine powers all but the High Country, with a 420-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 standard on that edition and newly available for the mid-level trims. A 277-hp, turbo-diesel 3.0-liter six-cylinder can be swapped for all models except the Z71. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive included on the Z71 and optional elsewhere.
The Tahoe’s maximum towing capacity is 8,400 pounds, which requires the 5.3-liter V-8 and a trailering package to achieve. The 6.2-liter V-8 tops out at 8,300 pounds, the turbo-diesel 3.0-liter at 8,200 pounds..
Safety and Tech Features
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 | Cars.com photo by Aaron Bragman
The 2022 Tahoe’s suite of driver-assist features includes standard automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, and hitch guidance for trailers. Front and rear park assist and lane departure warning with steering assist are now standard across all trims. Optional features include a blind spot warning system and head-up display.
The Tahoe LS features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims bump the screen size to 10.2 inches and add wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.
Trims and Pricing
2022 Chevrolet Tahoe | Cars.com photo by Christian Lantry
The optional turbo-diesel engine adds $895 to the starting price of most models, and upgrading to the 6.2-liter V-8 adds between $1,400 and $8,475 depending on the model. Getting 4WD adds another $3,000 from the prices below, except on the Z71, which has it standard.
The Tahoe’s 2022 starting prices are below, with price increases compared to the same trim last year in parentheses:
- LS: $51,795 ($600 increase)
- LT: $57,195 ($1,375)
- RST: $60,395 ($1,475)
- Z71: $62,395 ($1,375)
- Premier: $65,120 ($800)
- High Country: $70,545 ($775)
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Keyword: Chevrolet Tahoe: Which Should You Buy, 2021 or 2022?