Ever ridden in the third-row seat of an SUV? If you have, you’re probably cringing at the mere memory of that experience. It’s the most cramped space in the vehicle and caused tons of sore legs and knees for those who had to endure it. The 2021 Chevy Tahoe plans to change that. With a whole new redesign, the new Tahoe will change the way you see these full-size SUVs. Car and Driver tested a Z71 model, and they give you their thoughts on the new features it brings, how impressive the third-row seats are, and whether or not it’s a good buy. 

What’s new for the 2021 Chevy Tahoe?

The new year brings a whole new design to the exterior and the interior. Chevy extended the Tahoe’s wheelbase to 120.9 inches, which is 4.9 inches longer than previous models. 

The overall length also got a boost by 6.7 inches, bringing it to a total of 210.7 inches long. It also added an independent rear suspension system that lowers the undercarriage. 

The standard 5.3-liter and optional 6.2-liter V8 engines aren’t the only ones powering the Chevrolet Tahoe this year. Chevy added a new 3.0-liter V6 diesel motor to the mix. 

Add the standard 10-speed automatic transmission to all three engines and you’ll find that they are more than capable to handle pretty much anything. 

Even the gear shifter changed. Now, you’ll find a push-button set up located on the dash next to the infotainment system. The old shifting column left with the previous Tahoe design. 

What’s the most impressive feature of the newer model?

The biggest news about the 2021 Chevy Tahoe is all the interior space it gained with the extending of the wheelbase and overall length. The new architecture allows for more head and legroom in the third-row. 

Now, adults, as well as children, can enjoy a comfortable ride sitting in the rear-most seats of the vehicle. Plus, you gain a 25-cubic-foot space for the cargo area just behind the third row. 

To add to the comfort of the last row of passengers, Chevy added a few more touches. One is a window just for them. It’s small, but it’s independent of the rear gate window. Now, you can enjoy fresh air without opening up the back to get it. 

The second feature the new 2021 model added caters to those that depend on technology. Those who happen to have a compatible device with the USB-C plug or an adapter can charge their phones easily from the third seat. 

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe a suitable vehicle to buy?

A base model of the Chevrolet Tahoe will run you around $50,000. The Z71, tested by Car and Driver, ran much higher. With all the added features on it, the cost was $76,175. 

But the Z71 is a midrange model. The Premier and High Country packages are the top-of-the-line choices. The Premier model has a starting price of $63,895, while the High Country begins at $70,895.

Chevy’s High Country model brings premium luxuriousness, especially with a $5,000 deluxe package. Muscle Cars and Trucks claim the added packages bring creature comforts but could push the price well over the $80,000 range. 

For those looking to provide ample space for a semi-large family, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe will be a great option. But, unless the over the top luxury features are important to you, stick with the lower-end models. The Z71 can provide all the luxuriousness you really need. 

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe promises to be one of the most comfortable rides for all rows of passengers. If you need that third row, skip the 2020 version and go for the newer model which will give you more space not only for the last row of seats but also for the cargo area.