In the world of full-size SUVs, Chevrolet has long been a dominant force, and their 2021 offerings–the Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban–are no exception. These two siblings have traditionally been go-to choices for families and adventurers alike. However, they do have some distinct characteristics and features. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban: Chevy SUVs Compared
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe at 7 out of 10 in terms of looks. The Tahoe lineup offers six different versions, each with a distinct appearance. From the base Tahoe LS to the luxurious Tahoe High Country, there's a Tahoe for every taste.
The Tahoe's styling centers around its grille, with LED headlights giving it a modern touch. The larger wheel options, up to 22 inches, enhance its overall appearance. Pricing for the Tahoe ranges from $49,000 for the base LS to $72,600 for the fully loaded High Country.
Inside, the Tahoe's interior features a 10.2-inch infotainment screen and electronic transmission controls. While it offers improved storage capacity, the control layout may require some adjustment. Leather upholstery starts with the LT trim, and the High Country offers premium leather options.
On the design front, CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban at 5 out of 10. The Suburban carries a more polarizing front-end design with large grilles and small headlights, evoking the Camaro's influence.
Trim levels for the Suburban include LS, LT, Z71, RST, Premier, and the range-topping High Country. The LS, for instance, comes with a 5.3-liter V8 engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, and various amenities. The High Country, akin to GMC Denali, offers a host of features, including adaptive air suspension and a panoramic sunroof.
However, the Suburban's interior, though functional, doesn't match the luxury of some competitors, nor its own price point, with hard plastics and limited soft-touch materials.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe at 8 out of 10 for performance. The Tahoe offers three engine options, including a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower (exclusive to High Country trim level), and a 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel with 277 horsepower.
All Tahoes come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and most offer rear-wheel drive (RWD), with four-wheel drive (4WD) optional. Towing capacity ranges up to 8,400 pounds, and it can handle up to 1,834 pounds of payload.
An independent rear suspension and optional Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride suspension contribute to a smoother ride and improved handling. The Z71 trim, especially, excels on and off the road.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban receives a rating of 6 out of 10 for performance from CarGurus experts. It comes with the same standard 5.3-liter V8 delivering 355 horsepower, with the 6.2-liter V8 and its 420 horsepower provided as an option. The new Duramax 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine is also available.
Like the Tahoe, all Suburban engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and offer RWD or optional 4WD. Although it's still a strength, the Suburban's towing capacity with the 5.3-liter V8 comes up 100 pounds short of the Tahoe, at 8,300 pounds.
The Suburban has also gained an independent rear suspension, which improves ride quality, though some truck-like tendencies remain, especially over rough terrain.
Form and Function
The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe earns a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for form and function. The introduction of an independent rear suspension has transformed the Tahoe. It now offers superior passenger comfort and class-leading cargo space.
The interior is well-appointed, featuring heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel. The power sliding storage console is a standout feature, providing ample storage options.
The second-row offers a choice of bench or captain's chairs with an optional entertainment display. Access to the third-row is easy, and even adults can sit comfortably back there. With the seats folded, the Tahoe offers generous cargo space, including a maximum volume of 122.9 cubic feet.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban also scores a perfect 10 out of 10 for form and function. Its massive cargo space, especially when the rear seats are folded, is a standout feature, offering a cavernous 144.7 cubic feet.
Passenger comfort is a strong suit, with spacious seating and a commanding view of the road. The control layout is reminiscent of GM's pickup trucks, though the button shifter design may take some getting used to.
In summary, both the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban offer impressive form and function, but the Suburban stands out with its unmatched cargo capacity.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe highly, giving it a solid 9 out of 10. Chevrolet has stepped up its tech game with the Tahoe. The standard 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a standout feature, boasting a new digital platform that provides five times the computing power. This system offers over-the-air update capability and enhanced cybersecurity protection, keeping your vehicle up-to-date and secure.
Standard highlights include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice-recognition system, and Chevrolet Connected Services with various plans offering services like remote engine starting, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, automatic collision notification, SOS emergency calling, and stolen vehicle assistance. Navigation and two different Bose premium audio systems are available upgrades.
In terms of usability, the infotainment system operates like a tablet computer, though the main-menu shortcut icons located on the lower-left portion of the display can be a bit tricky to use due to the recessed screen. The voice-recognition system, however, shines with its quick and accurate responses. Bluetooth pairing is fast, wireless Apple CarPlay works seamlessly, and the wireless charging pad ensures your devices stay powered. The available nine-speaker Bose audio system provides decent audio quality.
Additionally, the Tahoe offers a Rear Seat Media system with impressive versatility, perfect for keeping passengers entertained on long journeys. Unfortunately, we couldn't test its full potential with kids during our limited test window. The Tahoe also offers an available 15-inch head-up display, a useful feature for accessing essential information at a glance.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban is no slouch in the technology department either, earning a 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. It features the same standard 10.2-inch touchscreen with GM's intuitive infotainment system. The graphics are crisp, and the layout is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and when combined with the available wireless device charging pad, it creates a convenient and seamless tech experience. While a navigation system is available, it's not entirely necessary with the smartphone integration options. For those looking to keep rear-seat passengers entertained, there's an optional rear entertainment system with large touchscreens.
The Suburban also offers an available head-up display that provides large, easy-to-read graphics without obstructing the driver's view. This system enhances the overall driving experience.
Safety
In the safety department, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe shines with a 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. It comes loaded with standard safety features, including Teen Driver, which allows parents to monitor their child's driving habits. Other standard features include a rear-seat reminder system, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and low-speed automatic emergency braking.
For those who want even more safety tech, higher trim levels and optional packages offer lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and rear pedestrian detection. Premier and High Country trims get access to adaptive cruise control, high-speed automatic emergency braking, a Safety Alert Seat, and an upgraded blind-spot warning system with trailer coverage.
During testing, the Tahoe Z71's driving-assistance and collision-avoidance features performed as expected, providing real value in terms of safety. However, the audible alert for pedestrian detection may take some getting used to.
For enhanced maneuverability, it's recommended to opt for the available surround-view camera, which provides multiple views, including rear, forward, and top-down perspectives.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban also comes with a strong safety package, earning an 8 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. The Suburban also features the Teen Driver system, allowing parents to set speed and volume limitations for young drivers.
Optional safety features, available on higher trim levels, include adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, front parking sensors, and a surround-view monitor camera system. It's worth noting that some of these optional features come standard on competitors like the Ford Expedition.
Unique options from Chevrolet include the rear-view camera mirror and the Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates the seat for alerts. The Safety Alert Seat, in particular, proves to be a practical and intuitive safety feature.
Cost Effectiveness
When it comes to cost-effectiveness, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe receives an 8 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. However, it's essential to consider that the as-tested price of our Tahoe Z71 exceeded $76,000, which at the time was double the average price of a new vehicle in America. While the vehicle is loaded with impressive technology and features, it might not be the most budget-friendly option.
The Tahoe's base price starts where well-equipped midsize three-row models leave off. To justify the higher cost, you should genuinely require the additional interior space and towing capacity that full-size SUVs like the Tahoe offer. In terms of towing, it's essential to note that the Ford Expedition holds the crown, capable of towing up to 9,300 pounds. However, the Tahoe excels in cargo volume and passenger comfort, making it a practical and appealing choice compared to competitors from Nissan and Toyota.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban proves to be a cost-effective option as well, earning an 8 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. The base MSRP for the Suburban is competitive, starting at $51,700 for the LS trim. Prices increase with higher trims, with the High Country trim reaching a starting price of $72,300.
While our 4WD High Country trim with options can approach the $80,000 mark, it's important to consider the Suburban's space and capability, making it a more comfortable alternative to high-end pickup trucks or luxury SUVs that often have a significantly higher price tag. The Suburban's pricing aligns more with the cost of a high-end quad-cab pickup truck, making it a reasonable choice for those who need the versatility and utility of a full-size SUV. The same rules apply: if you need the Suburban's capability, it's a great deal. If not, your money may be better spent on a three-row crossover, rather than this body-on-frame SUV.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is 8.5 out of 10, while the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings:
Choose 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe if:
- You prioritize advanced technology with a powerful infotainment system.
- Safety features and driver-assistance technology are essential for your peace of mind.
- You require a full-size SUV with ample cargo space and towing capacity.
Search for a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe on CarGurus
Choose 2021 Chevrolet Suburban if:
- You seek a cost-effective full-size SUV with competitive pricing.
- Fuel efficiency is a concern, especially with the diesel engine option.
- You need a spacious and versatile family vehicle with ample passenger and cargo space.
Search for a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban on CarGurus
In conclusion, both the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have their merits, catering to different needs and preferences. Consider your specific requirements, budget, and tech priorities when making your choice between these two impressive Chevrolet SUVs.
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