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Alexa. We all know her. She plays music, is always up-to-date on the weather, and tells some terrible knock-knock jokes. That’s not all Alexa is capable of, though. Nowadays, Alexa is also built-in in several different vehicles. Among them? The 2021 Tahoe.

2021 Chevy Tahoe on display
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe on display | Bill Pugliano/Getty Images

What is Alexa Built-In?

Imagine this: You’re behind the wheel and are halfway to your destination before realizing that you don’t know how to get there. It’s then that you pipe up, say ‘Alexa,’ ask for directions, and are quickly provided with them. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, with Alexa Built-In, the 2021 Tahoe is here to make all of your geographically challenged dreams come true. 

All in all, Alexa Built-In functions similarly to Amazon’s in-home Alexa devices. Though, in this case, it’s built right into the new Chevy Tahoe. Rather than having to hook up an external device or use your phone to access Alexa’s services, this year’s 2021 Tahoe comes with Alexa built directly into its infotainment system.

The 2021 Tahoe and Alexa Built-In

According to Tech Crunch, GM announced last year that it would be bringing Amazon Alexa to the infotainment systems of its Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac models. GM ultimately added Alexa through a software update that applied to cars, trucks, and crossovers with a compatible infotainment system.

For the 2021 Tahoe, Alexa is built-in and can be accessed via its infotainment system. Keep in mind, to set up and use Alexa Built-In, you do need a subscription. Fortunately, there are numerous plans to pick from, and all at varying price points.

Once you’re all set up, Alexa Built-In can be used for just about anything. Simply say ‘Alexa’ to add items to your Amazon shopping list, get directions to your next destination, or play a specific song. With tens of thousands of Alexa skills available, you can also add additional Alexa skills to the 2021 Tahoe’s Alexa Built-In system.

Competing SUVs with Alexa Built-In

The 2021 Tahoe isn’t the only SUV to offer Alexa Built-In. Search out just about any automaker, and its lineup is bound to feature at least one vehicle that offers Alexa Built-In.

When it comes to the SUV segment specifically, Kelley Blue Book says that competing SUVs like the 2020 Nissan Armada and the 2021 Genesis GV80 come with Alexa Built-In. Though, much like with the 2021 Tahoe, using Alexa Built-In does require a monthly subscription.

The 2021 Tahoe’s other tech features

While Alexa Built-In is undoubtedly enticing, it’s not the only tech-savvy feature this year’s new Tahoe has to offer. Standard with a 10.2-inch infotainment system, this year’s Tahoe is also available with built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity. The 2021 Tahoe boasts Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto compatibility too.

Tech lovers will also appreciate the 2021 Tahoe’s available 15-inch diagonal color head-up display. Use this convenient feature to project turn-by-turn directions, receive safety alerts, and answer incoming calls. 

If you plan to tow with your Tahoe, added tech features like Chevy’s available Advanced Trailering System are also appealing. Use this in-vehicle app to create customized trailer profiles, manage pre-departure checklists, and monitor your trailer’s tire pressure.

Should you buy the 2021 Tahoe?

There are plenty of reasons to buy the 2021 Tahoe. Not only is this SUV more spacious than ever before, but it’s absolutely brimming with the latest technology too. If you’re in the market for an SUV that has the latest tech-savvy features, along with a long list of other people-pleasing creature comforts, you can’t go wrong with the 2021 Tahoe.

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