New '07 redesigned Tahoe

[KenP]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content"> GM furious over Escalade/Tahoe spy shots
Posted Jul 25, 2005, 11:30 AM ET by John Neff
Related entries: Spy Photos, SUVs, Trends

Remember those spy photos of the next generation Cadillac Escalade and Chevy Tahoe? Turns out that GM is pretty ticked off they were taken and published on the Internet. The photos could potentially weaken interest in GM’s current crop of large SUVs and offer its competitor’s insight into the company’s plans for its highly profitable replacements. The photographer apparently called Brenda Priddy, a well-known spy photographer in the industry, and wanted to make a deal. The veteran spy shooter refused to handle the photos and warned the man not post them citing GM’s wrath for reason. The General has no tolerance for spy photographers or journalists who disregard embargoes after pics of the C6 Corvette raced around the Internet before its debut at the Detroit Auto Show this year.
</div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[KenP]

I like Tahoes, always have. The interior is awesome. Wish my truck had that.

[kacyk]

Can't wait for the Yukon Denali Version to come out. Time for a new Toy! But can they improve on the Denali????

[4churchill]

Kacy

Isn't that the Yukon XL you put the Denali kit on?? It looks great!!

[kacyk]

Yes Sir it is. I require a 9 seater vehicle but Denali's go only up to 8. I wish I had the 6.0 though. Cruising up to the cabin with 5 kids, their friends and luggage is a bit challenging. It does okay with the 5.3 but I wish I ha a little more...

[ROX]

My sister's Denali has the same engine as the H2. It's TONS faster, cuz it weighs so much less than the H2, but she can't even run across a wash-out in the road without banging the fender. She's waiting for a couple of years before she buys an SUT, I hope.

[PARAGON]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by H2 Rocks:
My sister's Denali has the same engine as the H2. It's TONS faster, cuz it weighs so much less than the H2, but she can't even run across a wash-out in the road without banging the fender. She's waiting for a couple of years before she buys an SUT, I hope. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>That's not it, Rocks. I have a XL Denali and it is shy a couple of hundred pounds of the H2 and there is no comparison.

I nearly break my neck every time I go from the H2 to the Denali because of the throttle response difference. Also, the H2 is geared lower so it should "feel" faster off the line than our Denali but it's like there is 50 lb/ft of torque difference.

I have asked and asked why there is such a huge difference in the "performance" between the two and no one has any logical answer except for the programming.

It's not an aero thing because I am referring to 0-30 MPH and things like 20-50 MPH.

[PARAGON]

Oops, sorry. 500lbs difference in the curb weight but the GVW ran closer together on ours back a couple of years ago before I added a bunch of crap to my H2.

[ROX]

Is that all? Could it be tire size? I know hers are stock, whatever size that is, and mine are stock 35's. Okay, you made me look.

Curb weight on the Denali XL is 5754lbs. Vortec 6.0L V8 with 3.73 gears. 335 hp, and 375 lb-ft. of torque.
Aluminum wheels: 20 X 8.5
http://www.gmc.com/yukon/specsEngine.jsp?vehicle=denali

H2 curb weight is 6400 lbs, Vortec 6.0 L with 4.10 gears, 325hp and 465 lb-ft torque.
Cast Aluminum 17" wheels http://www.hummer.com/hummerjsp/home.jsp

Not much difference, except the torque numbers are 110 lb-ft higher. <span class="ev_code_RED">i mean 90 </span>

I only got to drive the Denali once, and it flew. My ass told me it was faster. K?
Nice car.

[PARAGON]

Hey, they made the Denali lighter. Mine is a 2001 and it says a curb weight of something like 5900lbs.

Theoretically the gearing would make up some of the difference in the tire size but, I am like you, it's more seat of your pants.

BTW, I might have been confusing, I was agreeing with you on the difference, I just didn't think the weight difference was the answer.

And the numbers you show says the H2 has 90 lb-ft of torque more?????? Actually the H2 has 365 lb-ft but it feels like it has 50 lb-ft less or more.

The Denali is much more sportier.

[H2_SUT_SC]

Paragon - if you find pics of the new Yukon or Escalade definitely throw them up. I can't wait to see what they are going to look like.

[PARAGON]

Depth and breadth of lineup:

* Chevy Tahoe, Suburban and Avalanche
* GMC Yukon , Yukon XL, Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali
* Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT
* Three body styles; light- and heavy-duty models (Suburban and Yukon XL)
* 2WD, 4WD and AWD models
* Seven powertrain combinations
* Builds on segment-leading quality and comfort reputations
* Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade available in first quarter 2006
* Chevy Suburban and Avalanche, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL Denali, Cadillac Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT available in second quarter 2006
* Assembly plants: Arlington , Texas ; Janesville , Wisconsin ; Silao , Mexico


Crisp and contemporary exterior styling:

* All-new refined exterior styling with differentiated brand elements
* Brand-unique front end sheetmetal, lamps and wraparound fascias
* Unique doors, front fender vents on Cadillac models
* Sleeker, more aerodynamic windshield angle
* Improved body-to-wheel proportions
* Larger standard wheels/tires – 17- and 18-inch – and larger available wheels – 20- and 22-inch

Unsurpassed interior refinement:

* All-new, spacious interior design with superior refinement
* Use of premium materials with lower glass levels
* Flush fits and close-outs that conceal seat hardware
* Instrument panel positioned down and forward for increased visibility and spaciousness
* New seat construction advances class-leading comfort
* Thinner, sculpted seats with more fore/aft travel, providing great legroom and knee room
* Increased storage capacity in center console and glove box
* Exclusive luxury interior on Cadillac models, with unique instrument panel, door panels, seats, console and instrumentation
* Quiet interior through extensive use of noise-reducing materials, spray-in damping, foam and seals

Exceptional driving experience:

* Increased horsepower and segment-leading fuel economy
* Wider front and rear tracks, with lower center of gravity
* All-new fully-boxed frame with hydroformed front and rear sections
* New coil-over-shock front suspension
* New rack-and-pinion steering system
* New brake system with larger four-wheel discs, 50-percent stiffer calipers and next-generation four-channel ABS
* Gen IV small-block Vortec V-8 powertrain family, including aluminum cylinder blocks, fuel-saving Displacement On Demand technology and variable valve timing
* Six-speed automatic transmission

Comprehensive safety and security:

* 360-degree occupant safety protection, including segment-exclusive rear pretensioner sensors
* 5-star frontal crash ratings anticipated
* Strengthened chassis and body structure improves crashworthiness; frame designed for compatibility with smaller vehicles
* Roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with tethers for all three seating rows
* Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with new rollover mitigation technology
* Rear camera system

Leading comfort and convenience:

* Power-assisted rear liftgate
* Innovative power fold-and-tumble second-row seat
* Power-articulating running boards
* Enhanced DVD entertainment system with larger 8-inch screen
* New CD/MP3 radio family
* Touch-screen navigation system
* Heated first- and second-row seats
* Remote vehicle starting system
* Heated windshield wiper fluid
* RainSense automatic windshield wipers

The Chevrolet Avalanche and Cadillac Escalade EXT cast unique profiles with their open cargo areas and segment-exclusive Mid-gate re-configurable cargo systems. The ’07 models feature more integrated styling, enabled by the platform’s “clean sheet” redesign and more aerodynamic roofline. A cleaner look also is created with the elimination of lower-body cladding.

All models have premium cues, such as jewel-look lighting elements, wraparound fascias and doors that extend over the rockers, which accent the vehicles’ precise and refined design elements. The headlamps are larger, with Chevy and GMC models using bright halogen bulbs that deliver improved lighting spread, when compared with previous models. Cadillac models are equipped with bold High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. Rear-end styling also is distinct among the brands, with unique treatments above the beltline and around the glass, including taillamps and integrated license plate pockets. Cadillac models also receive unique rear fascias, LED taillamps, bright work and integrated trailer hitch treatments.

Larger standard and available wheels, including optional 20-inch wheels on Chevy and GMC models, as well as 22-inch wheels on Escalade, are tailored to fit the wheel openings. This precise wheel-to-body relationship – including a wheels-at-the-corners stance – gives the vehicle a more refined look and, with the chassis’ wider track, a more athletic presence and lowered stance.

Numerous standard and available features complement the new SUVs’ design, including new-design flat-blade windshield wipers, standard front tow hooks (4WD models), an available power-assisted rear liftgate, available factory-installed articulating running boards and a larger available sunroof. Refinement is evidenced in details like integrated tow hitch receivers and the front tow hooks. These features are blended into the exterior design rather than added to it, giving the vehicles a smoother appearance while maintaining their capability and ease of use.

Interior systems and features

The all-new interior styling of GM’s 2007 full-size SUVs continues the refinement story with a premium, more spacious design and distinct styling among the brands – including an exclusive interior design for Escalade models.

The cabin space is roomier – including increased cargo capacity – and has a spacious, luxurious environment, thanks to a premium two-tone color scheme and a lower-positioned instrument panel. New thinner, sculpted seat designs and trim reassert the vehicles’ leadership position in comfort, including heated seats for first- and second-row passengers. Also, the front seats offer more fore/aft and recline travel, and the second-row seats have an increased seatback recline angle for increased comfort.


The two-tone interior appearance bolsters the vehicles’ aura of a roomy, luxury sedan. The upscale styling is complemented by new, softer and low-gloss materials for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. The harmonious color and grain of the materials was carefully selected to provide a premium feel as well as durability. Flush-mounted controls and radios, with almost imperceptible gaps, convey precision and integration. All models feature distinct, brand-specific colors, instrument panel trim and gauge trim.

Attention to detail also is revealed in unexpected areas: distinctive sill plates with no visible hardware greet occupants when the doors are opened and there are no exposed fasteners or hardware on the pillars, seats or seat tracks. The seats have “close-outs” that surround the seat bottoms and seat tracks, creating a more finished appearance. Fasteners and hardware are covered, too, when the seats are folded.

The SUVs also are packed with innovations and enhanced convenience features, including a new industry exclusive power fold-and-tumble rear seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat, as well as a power-assisted rear liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button. The power fold-and-tumble second-row seats feature release buttons accessible by the driver or on the interior C-pillar to provide an easy, immediate release of the seat to create an access path to the third-row seat or cargo area. The standard operation of both the rear seats and liftgate also were designed with attention to detail and ease of use. Manual-control rear seats fold and tumble with one-hand ease and little effort. And, the incorporation of a micro-switch touch pad integrated into the ergonomically designed pull handle for the liftgate provides effortless opening without the power assist. A specially designed pull handle and grip pad aid closing efforts, as well.

Chevy Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL have standard manual-control tri-zone climate control. Automatic tri-zone climate control is available on Chevrolet and Yukon models, and standard on Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade models. An available remote starting feature allows the climate system to heat or cool the vehicle’s interior, based on the feedback of electronic signals that determine the appropriate climate settings.

An enhanced array of audio, infotainment and safety options also is available and includes an available touch-screen navigation system, as well as a DVD system with larger flip-down screen. The new family of radios incorporates integrated XM Satellite Radio capability and plug-and-play MP3 capability.

There is more space inside the SUVs, as well. More fore/aft front seat travel provides the segment’s leading legroom for front-seat passengers. Second-row seat legroom and knee room, and third-row seat headroom are increased over the previous models. The second- and third-row seats also have more shoulder room – a feat accomplished while also offering available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags. Cargo room of the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade has increased by 4.2 cubic feet (118.9 liters) behind the second row seats and 2.3 cubic feet (65.1 liters) behind the third row. The third-row seats fold flat and are easily tumbled forward or removed for maximum cargo area. Also, the center console storage compartment, at nearly 20 liters of capacity, is the segment’s largest. The glove box offers 25 percent more storage space than previous models and features damped opening operation that bolsters quietness and refinement.

Vehicle-wide elements work harmoniously to make the new SUVs’ interiors among the segment’s quietest and most refined in the industry. Refinements are found in the sill panels, premium-quality materials, new seat “close-outs,” as well as headliner. The woven, sculpted and tailored headliner was designed for more headroom and maximum use of space. The form-fitting headliner features sun visors and pull handles that are tucked up into pockets for spaciousness and all-around premium appearance. The vehicles also feature extensive noise-reducing and sound damping material, as well as other noise suppression attributes in the chassis and body structure to provide an exceptionally quiet driving experience.

Cadillac Escalade models feature an exclusive luxury interior, including a unique instrument panel, instrumentation (with continuously lit white-LED backlighting), seats, door trim and center console. Escalade also receives enhanced premium materials and features, such as unique instrument lighting, fabric-covered interior pillars, available heated and cooled front seats and an available heated steering wheel (also available on Yukon Denali models). Escalade models also offer enhanced radio systems and an available DVD entertainment system that includes flip-down screens for the second- and third-row occupants.

Driving experience

At the core of the new SUVs’ “live bigger, drive smaller” mission is an engaging combination of performance, responsiveness and comfort that channels the vehicle-wide refinements into an effortless driving experience.

“The new SUVs’ refinement extends to the driving experience and it is apparent from the moment you turn the key,” said White. “The first thing you have to do is look at the tach to make sure it’s running – these vehicles are so quiet. They are more predictable, athletically responsive, smooth and precise, giving you confidence behind the wheel.”

Powering the SUVs’ sophisticated driving dynamics is a more powerful and more efficient powertrain system, based on the Gen IV small-block V-8 engine family, which uses advanced technology such as Displacement On Demand, to help reduce fuel consumption. Displacement On Demand works with other powertrain technologies and vehicle enhancements, including substantially improved aerodynamics, to provide better fuel efficiency.

A Gen IV small-block V-8 is standard in all models, with displacements ranging from 4.8L to 6.2L, and horsepower ranging from 290 (216 kw) to 400 (298 kw).* Variable valve timing technology is used on some engines to enhance performance and efficiency. The engines are backed by proven Hydra-Matic electronically controlled automatic transmissions, including a new 6L80 six-speed. A more robust rear axle design also supports the vehicles’ increased performance and capabilities.

Engine offerings for the new SUVs include:

* 4.8L iron block (RPO LY2), rated at 290 horsepower (216 kw)*
* 5.3L iron block (RPO LY5) with Displacement On Demand technology, rated at 320 horsepower (238 kw)* (including E85-capable version – RPO LMG)
* 5.3L aluminum block (RPO LC9) with Displacement On Demand technology and E85 capability, rated at 320 horsepower (238 kw)*
* 6.0L iron block (LY6) heavy-duty engine with variable valve timing, rated at 350 horsepower (260 kw)*
* 6.0L aluminum block (L76) with Displacement On Demand technology and variable valve timing, rated at 355 horsepower (264 kw)*
* 6.2L aluminum block (L92) with variable valve timing, capable of 380 and 400 horsepower (283 kw to 298 kw)*

A new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 6.2L engine. It has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. The 6L80’s six forward gears have smaller “steps” between them, compared to a conventional four-speed automatic, which bolsters both performance and the feeling of smoothness. Shorter steps between the gears help the transmission quickly find the best gear for the vehicle speed and road conditions, with less back-and-forth hunting on grades – a trait that is particularly helpful when towing. Also, the 6L80 has a “tap up/tap down” capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

Perhaps the biggest enabler to the ’07 SUVs’ uncommon road manners is a new, fully boxed frame that offers 49 percent increased torsional stiffness and 35 percent improvement in beaming frequency, compared to previous models. The frame supports wider front and rear tracks – approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) wider in front and 1 inch (25.4 mm) wider in the rear – that enhance stability and driving confidence through a more secure road feel and a lower center of gravity.

The front suspension consists of an all-new coil-over-shock design that delivers linear, solid and unwavering ride and handling characteristics on all road surfaces. Also new is a rack-and-pinion steering system that provides precise and responsive control and enhanced on-center feel. A highly-refined five-link rear suspension provides superior isolation and ride, with larger, firmer brackets that also contribute to the vehicles’ precise driving manners.

Larger, four-wheel disc brakes and an all-new ABS system from Bosch ensure GM’s new full-size SUVs will deliver braking performance at the top of the segment. Larger vented front and rear brake rotors, 50-percent stiffer dual-piston calipers, longer-life brake pads and a new apply system design result in enhanced pedal feel, reduced brake noise, predictable, linear brake response and shorter braking distances. A new, Bosch 8.0 next-generation four-channel ABS system also is standard. The ABS system works with the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. In the new SUVs, StabiliTrak incorporates the first-time GM application of roll-over mitigation, software algorithm technology that uses sensors to proactively predict vehicle “tip-up” and applies appropriate brake forces to prevent such events.

Enhanced driving control and ride smoothness is offered with the available Autoride real-time damping system, which uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make nearly instantaneous damping adjustments. The system “reads” the road and anticipates the best damping rates.

All ’07 full-size SUVs debut with a new family of larger standard and available wheels and tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard on Chevy and GMC models, with 18-inch wheels standard on Cadillac Escalade models. Chevy and GMC models offer up to 20-inch wheels, while Escalade is available with 22-inch wheels. The wheels are designed with premium-appearance faces, including available chrome or polished finish. New tires are tailored to the vehicles to provide excellent balance of handling, quietness and safety.

Safety and security

GM’s new 2007 full-size SUVs are designed to be among the industry’s safest and most secure vehicles, with a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash avoidance technology. New features, including roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows and exclusive safety belt pretensioners linked to sensors for rear-end crashes, are integrated into a stronger vehicle structure that is also designed for improved compatibility with other vehicles.

The roof-mounted air bags’ tethers hold the bags in place longer for increased rollover protection and occupant containment. Sensors located at the front and rear of the vehicles, as well as the side doors provide increased and more immediate crash detection. The exclusive rear pretensioner sensors can trigger the front seat pretensioners during a rear-end collision, holding the occupants firmly in place and helping to prevent whiplash injuries.

The myriad of crash sensors are complemented by increased roll-over detection from the standard StabiliTrak stability control system. The electronically controlled system continuously measures the side angle of the vehicle and, if a rollover appears imminent, it can deploy the side-curtain air bags before the crash occurs. The 360 degrees of detection capability allows the electronically controlled safety systems to deploy in a greater variety of situations.

Crash avoidance is bolstered through enhanced driver control dynamics, such as wider front and rear tracks, as well as more responsive suspensions – including a new coil-over-shock front suspension design and new rack-and-pinion steering. The vehicles are built on a stronger and stiffer, fully-boxed frame that is designed for improved crash energy management. The front frame section, for example, has improved crush dynamics that provide the equivalent of 17.7 inches (450 mm) of additional crush space – in vehicles that are only approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) longer than their predecessors. The frame also is designed for improved vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a frontal impact with a smaller vehicle.

Additional safety and security features include:

* Standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology
* Standard dual-stage driver’s front air bag
* Standard dual-stage outboard-front passenger air bag with passenger occupant detection system
* Available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags for all seating rows
* Standard front safety belt pretensioners with activation sensors in the front, sides and rear of the vehicle
* 5-star frontal impact ratings anticipated
* Standard tire pressure monitoring system
* Available rain-sensing wiper system
* Available Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that can detect people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound
* Available rear-view camera system that can visually detect people or object in the rearward path of the vehicle
* Standard pull-up/push-down power window switches

All models come with the Generaton 6 OnStar system (with a one-year Safe and Sound service plan). The system includes the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an airbag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar Advisor who will check on the occupants or summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen (ability to locate stolen vehicles varies with conditions).

[kacyk]

Salivating! Hope they don't screw up the reliability of this line. GM did it right with the basic Tahoe and all its cousins.

[PARAGON]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">General Motors has shown the first of its new full-size sport-utility vehicles, which it hopes will sell as well as the previous editions. A host of upgrades comes with the new vehicles, including a stiffer body structure, a more powerful range of V8 engines, and the most aerodynamic bodies in the segment. The first of the sport-utes off the block is the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe shown here. It features a powertrain that, with a cylinder-deactivation system, posts an average fuel economy of 20.5 mpg ( with four-wheel drive, 20.1 mpg ). The Tahoe will be the first of 12 distinct models to share similar running gear, including a new Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, GM Yukon and Hummer H2. Of the four V8 engines available in the Tahoe, the most powerful will be a 6.2-liter V8 with nearly 400 hp </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[CLAYDOG]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by PARAGON:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">General Motors has shown the first of its new full-size sport-utility vehicles, which it hopes will sell as well as the previous editions. A host of upgrades comes with the new vehicles, including a stiffer body structure, a more powerful range of V8 engines, and the most aerodynamic bodies in the segment. The first of the sport-utes off the block is the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe shown here. It features a powertrain that, with a cylinder-deactivation system, posts an average fuel economy of 20.5 mpg ( with four-wheel drive, 20.1 mpg ). The Tahoe will be the first of 12 distinct models to share similar running gear, including a new Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, GM Yukon and Hummer H2. Of the four V8 engines available in the Tahoe, the most powerful will be a 6.2-liter V8 with nearly 400 hp </div></BLOCKQUOTE> </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

And no comment on the 6 speed?

[PARAGON]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by CLAYDOG:
And no comment on the 6 speed? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>A new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 6.2L engine. It has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. The 6L80’s six forward gears have smaller “steps” between them, compared to a conventional four-speed automatic, which bolsters both performance and the feeling of smoothness. Shorter steps between the gears help the transmission quickly find the best gear for the vehicle speed and road conditions, with less back-and-forth hunting on grades – a trait that is particularly helpful when towing. Also, the 6L80 has a “tap up/tap down” capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

[Dan]

Are you hinting at something ClayDog?

[H2_SUT_SC]

That's kickass. I wonder if they're still gonna offer a V12 in the Escalade in 07. Escalade-V