Chevrolet Tahoe

Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon
Overview
Manufacturer	General Motors
Production	1992–present (Yukon) 1995–present (Tahoe)
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size SUV
Layout	Front engine, Rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive /All-wheel drive
Related	Cadillac Escalade
Chronology
Predecessor	Chevrolet K-Blazer/GMC K5 Jimmy

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 1995 to rebadge the redesigned mid-size S-10 Blazer as the Blazer, renaming the full-size Blazer as the Tahoe. The name Tahoe refers to the rugged and scenic area surrounding Lake Tahoe in the western United States. The name Yukon refers to the Yukon territory of northern Canada. For the 1995 model year, the Tahoe and Yukon gained a new 4-door model slotting in size between the 2-door models and the longer wheelbase and higher passenger capacity Chevrolet Suburban and newly named Yukon XL.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has praised the Tahoe as one of the best of its class. The Tahoe is sold in North America, The Middle East (Except Israel), The Philippines, Chile, and Russia as a Left-hand vehicle. The Yukon and Yukon Denali is sold in United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Middle East (Except Israel) in LHD.

The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon currently serve as a part of General Motors' full-size SUV family. Lengthened wheelbase models are available for both as the Suburban for Chevrolet and Yukon XL for GMC. A luxury Denali model joined the Yukon lineup in 1998. As of 2002, a Denali version of the Yukon XL has also been available as the Yukon XL Denali. The Cadillac Escalade is closely related to the Denali models of the Yukon. As of February 2014, the 2014 Tahoe was the top-ranked Affordable Large SUV in U.S. News & World Report's rankings.

1992–1999 (GMT400)

GMT400
Overview
Also called	GMC Yukon Chevrolet Silverado (Mexico) Chevrolet Grand Blazer (Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador and Venezuela) Chevrolet Tahoe (Bolivia and Europe)
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 and chassis
Body style	3-door SUV 5-door SUV 4-door SUV
Platform	GMT420/430
Related	Chevrolet/GMC Suburban
Powertrain
Engine	4.1 L Chevrolet Straight-6 5.7 L Small-Block Chevrolet V8 4.2 L MWM Sprint Turbo Diesel 6.5 L Turbo Detroit Diesel V8
Transmission	4-speed 4L60E automatic 4-speed 4L80E automatic 5-speed NV3500 manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2-door: 111.5 in (2,832 mm) 4-door: 117.5 in (2,984 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)

GMT400 GMC Yukon GT

Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4-door

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 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) while the four-door weighs approximately 5,500 lb (2,495 kg). "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.

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 (4WD only), called the Chevrolet Grand Blazer, and in 1996 the 4-door was released as the Grand Blazer 4-door (2WD). In 1996 the 2-door was discontinued. In 1996 only Grand Blazer 4-door 4WD was available. In Bolivia, 1995 the 4-door was released as the Tahoe 4-door (4WD).

The Tahoe was released in 1992 in Europe.

Beginning in 1994, GM began making numerous annual changes to the Blazer/Yukon, including:

• Revised front clip - Blazer (1994)
• Revised interior including a driver-side air bag, revised side mirrors, Blazer renamed Tahoe, 4-door option included (1995)
• Revised Vortec 5700 (350 cu in) and Vortec 7400 (454 cu in) engines with increased power and fuel efficiency, electronic 4WD shifting, daytime running lights, illuminated entry, and some new interior features (1996)
• Revised automatic transmission, improved steering system and added passenger-side air bag, Yukon 2-door option dropped (1997)
• Programmable Homelink transmitter, PassLock security system, heated front seating surfaces optional, air conditioning for rear seat passengers, AutoTrac automatic 4WD option added, second generation air bags, transmissions revised again (1998)
• Revised steering wheel and improved radiators and transmissions, Tahoe 2-door option dropped (1999)

Tahoe Limited and Tahoe Z71

2000 Chevrolet Tahoe Limited

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. 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 in (51 mm) lower than the 4WD Tahoe, two tone gray and charcoal leather interior seating surfaces, a 120 mph (190 km/h) gauge cluster, 46 mm (1.8 in) 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 in 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 (3/4 ton suspension/springs, 46 mm (1.8 in) Bilstein shock absorbers, a standard 3.73 rear gear ratio G80 locking differential), body colored wheel flares, trim, grille and bumpers, inset driving lights built into the center of the front bumper, oversized two row radiator, two tone leather seating surfaces in either a gray or neutral theme, distinctive tail lamp lens covers, black tubular side assist step bars, black brush guard, and distinctive 16 inch Alcoa five spoke 6 bolt polished aluminum wheels.

The L31 5.7 L 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 (420 N⋅m)
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 (454 N⋅m)

2000–2006 (GMT800)

GMT800
Overview
Also called	GMC Yukon Chevrolet Sonora (Mexico) Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package
Production	2000–2006
Assembly	Janesville, Wisconsin, United States Arlington, Texas, United States Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico Kaliningrad, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door SUV
Platform	GM GMT800 platform
Related	Chevrolet Suburban GMC Yukon XL Cadillac Escalade Hummer H2
Powertrain
Engine	4.8 L 275 hp (205 kW) V8 5.3 L 285 hp (213 kW) V8
Transmission	4-speed 4L60-E automatic
Dimensions
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)

2001 Chevrolet Tahoe rear (The Netherlands)

GMC Yukon

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 (350 cu in) 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 (came standard on 2006), 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 kW) more for 2003 and 2004. The Flex Fuel engine became available first in the 2002 model.

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 to 295 hp (209 to 220 kW)	325 to 330 lb⋅ft (441 to 447 N⋅m)	FlexFuel Optional
2004–2006	4.8 L	Vortec 4800 V8	285 to 295 hp (213 to 220 kW)		FlexFuel Optional
2004–2006	5.3 L	Vortec 5300 V8	295 hp (220 kW)		FlexFuel

2007-2014 (GMT900)

GMT900
Overview
Also called	GMC Yukon Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD Special Service Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD PPV
Production	2006–2014
Assembly	China: Shanghai (Shanghai GM) Mexico: Silao, Guanajuato (Silao Assembly) Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor) United States: Arlington, Texas (Arlington Assembly) Janesville, Wisconsin (Janesville Assembly) Venezuela: Valencia, Carabobo (Valencia)
Body and chassis
Platform	GMT921/922 (GMT920)
Related	Chevrolet Suburban GMC Yukon XL Cadillac Escalade
Powertrain
Engine	4.8 L LY2 V8 (gasoline) 5.3 L LY5 V8 (gasoline) 5.3 L LMG V8 (gasoline / E85) 6.0 L LFA V8 (hybrid gasoline / electric) 6.0 L LZ1 V8 (hybrid gasoline / electric) 6.2 L L92 V8 (gasoline) 6.2 L L9H V8 (gasoline / E85) 6.2 L L94 V8 (gasoline / E85)
Transmission	4-speed 4L60-E automatic 6-speed 6L80 automatic CVT 2ML70 automatic
Dimensions
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)

GMC Yukon SLT

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_‑US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg_‑imp) to 21 to 22 mpg_‑US (11 to 11 L/100 km; 25 to 26 mpg_‑imp) with the addition of Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Both the old and new versions get 15 to 16 mpg_‑US (16 to 15 L/100 km; 18 to 19 mpg_‑imp) 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.

For 2012, the companion, the GMC Yukon, underwent minor changes: the SLE and SLT grades were discontinued, in favor of appearance packages.

Year	Engine	Power	Torque	Notes
2000–2006	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	403 hp (301 kW)	305 lb⋅ft (414 N⋅m)
2007–2009	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	403 hp (301 kW)	340 lb⋅ft (461 N⋅m)	standard on 2WD models
2010–2011	6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8	405 hp (302 kW)	340 lb⋅ft (461 N⋅m)	FlexFuel; standard on 4WD models
2012-2014	6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8	405 hp (302 kW)	417 lb⋅ft (565 N⋅m)	Yukon Denali
2015–	6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8	407 hp (303 kW) (Denali)	Yukon Denali

Fourth generation (2015-present)

GMT K2UC/G
Overview
Also called	GMC Yukon
Production	2014-present
Model years	2015-present
Assembly	Arlington, Texas, U.S. Saint-Petersburg, Russia
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door SUV
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Platform	GMTK2XX K2UC: Chevrolet Tahoe K2UG: GMC Yukon/Yukon Denali
Related	Cadillac Escalade ESV (2015) Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL (2015)
Powertrain
Engine	5.3 L (325 cu in) EcoTec3 V8 FlexFuel 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 FlexFuel (Yukon/Yukon Denali)
Transmission	6-speed 6L80 automatic 8-speed 8L90 automatic (Denali)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	116.0 in (2,946 mm)
Length	203.9 in (5,179 mm)
Width	80.5 in (2,045 mm)
Height	74.4 in (1,890 mm) Denali: 77.1 in (1,958 mm)

2015 GMC Yukon

The Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV had a shortened 2014 model year starting in June 2013, and was replaced with a new version in February 2014 as a 2015 model. The 2015 Tahoe/Yukon was supposed to be based on the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado, which was introduced in May 2013. Rumor was that 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, the Colorado debuting in 2014 for North America (as a 2015 model), and truck owners wanting a smaller truck-based SUV, instead of the monocoque crossover. GM's citing of heathly sales for their full-size SUVs in 2012 was another reason to retain the BOF platform. The Tahoe and Yukon are now built on the GMT K2XX platform and assigned as K2UC (for Chevrolet Tahoe) and K2UG (for GMC Yukon). Production on the Tahoe and Yukon began in December 2013 with the first completed SUVs being used for testing purposes, and started officially shipping the vehicles to dealerships on February 5, 2014. The 2015 Tahoe was later named the fastest selling vehicle for the month of February 2014, averaging seven days of sales upon its release.

On September 12, 2013, GM released the photos and press release of the newly redesigned Tahoe and Yukon. Like its larger siblings Suburban and Yukon XL, The front fascias of the Tahoe and Yukon are distinct, but from the base of the A-pillars back, they share most of the same styling cues. This now includes inlaid doors that tuck into the door sills, instead of over them, improving aerodynamics and fuel economy, and lessens interior noise. The hoods and liftgate panels now are made of aluminum in an effort to reduce vehicle weight. A more-efficient, direct-injected EcoTec3 powertrain coupled with improved aerodynamics now help offer greater estimated highway fuel economy for the SUVs. Both the Tahoe and Yukon do not share a single piece of sheetmetal or lighting element with the brands' full-size pick-up trucks, and the front grilles of both vehicles are slightly altered to give it their own identity. The front headlights features projector-beam headlamps that flanks the Chevrolet-signature dual-port grille – chrome on all models, sweeping into the front fenders, while the LTZ trims feature high-intensity discharge headlamps and light-emitting diode daytime running lamps.

Also new are the addition of fold-flat second and third-row seats, now a standard feature but can be equipped with an optional power-folding feature for the upgraded trims, and an additional two inches of leg room for second-row passengers. Multiple USB ports and power outlets are now spread throughout their interiors, including one 110-volt, three-prong outlet, with the Tahoe adding an available eight-inch color touch screen radio with next-generation MyLink connectivity along with an available rear-seat entertainment system (but will not feature a Blu-ray option that is exclusive to the Suburban for 2015), while the Yukon added a standard eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation.

The Yukon interior has more features including seats stuffed with dual-firmness foam, a standard Bose sound system and SD card slots, and laminated glass for the windshield and front windows, decreasing interior noise. GM's third-generation magnetic ride control suspension is optional on the Tahoe LTZ models, whose upgraded features include third-generation magnetic ride control, a real-time damping system that delivers more precise body motion control by "reading" the road every millisecond, and changing damping in just five milliseconds.

The new platform is based on the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and all-new 2014 GMC Sierra 1500. The new GM SUV's feature sound deadening material to further enhance the cabin quietness. A new Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV arrived in dealerships in April 2014. Models continued for the Tahoe and Suburban as LS, LT, and LTZ, and the Yukon and Yukon XL as SLE, SLT, and Denali. The Tahoe and Yukon went on sale in February 2014 as an early 2015 model year vehicle. Prices for the all-new GM SUV's are expected to stay the same as the current-generation GMT900 SUV's. The Tahoe Hybrid, Yukon Hybrid, and Yukon Denali Hybrid models will be dropped along with their powertrains, as well as the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Platinum. The Yukon Denali AWD is also being dropped as well. And despite reports that it is under consideration at this point, GM is mulling plans to bring the SS and RS package back for the Tahoe.

On August 29, 2014, Chevrolet announced that the Z71 package would return with a launch by leaking a photo that displayed the Z71 badge on one of its large SUVs. On September 26, 2014, Chevrolet debuted the updated Z71 Tahoe at the State Fair of Texas, along with the debut of the Texas Edition Tahoe, the latter due to Texas having the largest units of Tahoes sold in the United States (As of August 2014, sales of the Chevrolet SUVs in Texas was up 37 percent) and to celebrate the 60th anniversary of GM's Arlington Assembly plant; production begins in October 2014. As with the previous Z71 Tahoe, this version will continue to be offered in a 4WD LT trim only, featuring a front skid plate, off-road tires mounted on 18-inch wheels, a unique grille, running boards and "Z71" identification inside and out. Fog lamps, front tow hooks and front parking assist are also included. The Texas Edition will be available in both LT and LTZ trims, featuring a maximum trailering package, twenty-inch polished aluminum wheels (on LT models), twenty-two-inch premium painted aluminum wheels (on LTZ models), and an exclusive "Texas Edition" badge. The Texas Edition Tahoe package will be part of a lineup that will also use the Texas Edition package, alongside the Suburban and Silverado.

On March 23, 2014, a 2015 GMC Yukon caught fire and went up in flames in Anaheim, California after the couple, who along with the sales representative who were giving them a test drive, noticed the vehicle stopping and that smoke was starting to make its way into the cabin, prompting the 3 individuals to park the car and escape before it was destroyed within 15 minutes. The results of the fire was traced to an oil leak and an engine malfunction. Despite being an isolated incident, the 2015 Tahoe and Yukon are not believed to be tied to GM's announced recall of its vehicles that was made on March 17, 2014. But five days later on March 28, 2014, GM announced a recall on the 2015 Tahoe and Yukon in order to fix a “transmission oil cooler line that is not securely seated in its fitting,” causing the vehicle to stop and rupture the oil cooling line, resulting in the engine to malfunction and catching fire immediately. On June 6, 2014, GM issued another recall on the 2015 Tahoe and Yukon because their radio control modules may not work, and thus prevent certain audible safety warnings.

The demand and interest in the redesigned Tahoe has also translated into a 108 percent sales spike since it went on sale in February 2014, with most dealers reporting the units being sold within 17 days after it arrives on the dealership lots with customers opting for the fully loaded LTZ model, making it one of Chevrolet's fastest selling brands in 2014 along with Suburban, who posted higher sales and quicker inventory turnovers.

2015 mid-year update

The Tahoe received 4G LTE, WiFi, and Siri capability, a new color palette, Brownstone Metallic, and added a hands-free power liftgate feature that is standard on LTZ, but included on LT with the optional Luxury Package. The MyLink with Navigation feature became standard on the LTZ trim, while E85 capability is removed from retail orders.

The Yukon, in addition to receiving the aforementioned features, sees the 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine being updated with the new 8L90E eight-speed automatic transmission for the interim model year, allowing it to improve fuel ecomony.

GMC Yukon Denali

Further information: GMC Denali

The GMC Denali nameplate started as the luxury version of the Yukon for the 1998 model year. The Denali is available on both standard and XL versions, and is the top-of-the-line trim in the GMC Yukon lineup.

1999

GMT400 GMC Yukon Denali

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.

2001–2006

GMT800 GMC Yukon Denali

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.

2007–2014

2011 GMC Yukon Denali

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.

2015–present

The Yukon Denali was redesigned and updated along with other GM SUVs in September 2013 and went to dealerships on February 5, 2014 as a 2015 model. The Denali Yukon continues with the top-of-the-line features (using the similar features found in the Tahoe LTZ trim) and the front grille honeycomb design, equipped with a new active noise-cancellation technology and GM's third-generation magnetic ride control suspension as a standard feature. In November 2014 The Yukon Denali saw its MSRP bumped up by $1,300 in part due to the loaded features added to its 2015 mid-year updates.

Hybrid vehicle

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid used by Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley

GMC Yukon Hybrid

The Tahoe made its hybrid electric debut in fall 2007. In January, 2008, starting price was US$50,540. The starting price of the 2009 model was increased to US$51,405.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid uses a combination of its dual displacement 3.0/6.0 L V8 engine and two 60 kW (80 hp) (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_‑US (16 L/100 km; 18 mpg_‑imp) in city driving. In highway driving, the EPA rating is 22 mpg_‑US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg_‑imp).

The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid models were discontinued after the 2013 model year as GM moved to make their SUVs more fuel efficient with the introduction of the EcoTec engine that they would later install in the 2015 Tahoe and Yukon.

Replacement battery pack

In 2010, Multiple aftermarket large capacity replacement HV battery packs have become available for the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, including GreenTec Auto. A couple of others have come and gone, with a few more potentially in the pipeline. As of January 2015, GreenTec Auto began producing replacement hybrid car batteries with lower price ($1,750.00) and better warranty than offered by Chevrolet dealers. Important to know, dealer also re-manufactures batteries and only offers one year warranties on all batteries while GreenTec offers a 18 months unlimited mileage on the completely remanufactured and tested hybrid batteries.

The Apprentice make-your-own-ad contest

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, despite the negative media attention.

The Tahoe outside the United States

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. The Tahoe name was most likely not used in Brazil because it comes from Lake Tahoe, which is a lake on the border of Nevada and California, which would be unfamiliar to most Brazilians.

Police package

GMT800 Chevrolet Tahoe Police package

File:Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package.jpg

GMT900 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package

Hoover Dam, Police Chevrolet Tahoe

In North America, the Tahoe is used by many law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies. During the 1997 model year, the Tahoe was offered with the 9C1 police option using suspension components from the discontinued 454SS truck – the first Tahoe 9C1s were available only in 2WD until the GMT400 was phased out. Plans for outfitting the Tahoe with the 9C1 police package originated around the 1994 model year when GM broke news about phasing out its B-platform sedans (Caprice, Impala SS, Roadmaster) at the end of the 1996 model year where a replacement was imminent since GM ended production of its body-on-frame passenger sedans due to SUV sales. Since the introduction of the GMT900, 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.

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 1 in (25 mm) less, with a standard rear bumper replacing the tow hitch on civilian Tahoes. 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 & the 5th Generation Ford Explorer based Ford Police Interceptor Utility are the only pursuit-rated SUVs on the market today, and as of the 2012 model year, the last body-on-frame, rear-wheel drive police vehicle manufactured for the United States market since Ford phased out its aging Panther platform while the Volvo XC90-based Ford Police Interceptor is a monocoque chassis sourced from a Geely sedan. Other SUVs like the Ford Expedition are used by many law enforcement and EMS agencies, but are not pursuit rated.

On November 11, 2013, Chevrolet announced that they will build a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Patrol Vehicle, that was previewed as a concept at the 2013 SEMA show in Las Vegas. The vehicle will be available in 2WD and 4WD drivetrains with orders to start in the first quarter of 2014 for special service models, followed by the orders for the police pursuit models to start in the second quarter of 2014.

Yearly American sales

Calendar year	Tahoe	GMC Yukon	Total U.S. sales
1998	133,235	49,355	182,590
1999	122,213	53,280	175,493
2000	149,834	56,297	206,131
2001	202,319	77,254	279,573
2002	209,767	76,488	286,255
2003	199,065	86,238	285,303
2004	186,161	86,571	272,732
2005	152,307	73,458	225,765
2006	161,491	71,476	232,967
2007	146,259	63,428	209,687
2008	91,578	39,064	130,642
2009	73,254	29,411	102,665
2010	75,675	28,781	104,456
2011	80,527	34,250	114,777
2012	68,904	27,818	96,722
2013	83,502	28,302	111,804
2014	97,726	41,569	139,295

External links

• 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe prices announced
• Chevrolet - Tahoe