2020 Chevy Suburban's Z71 Trim Level Closeup Via Motor1.com

Much to the excitement of many customers and us on staff right here at West Chevy of Knoxville, the covers were pulled away from the 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe a few weeks ago. This time, the pair of large SUVs really are “all-new”, and not just because of new metal enveloping the shell. There is an independent rear suspension underneath the three-row SUVs for the first time, and a report courtesy of GM Authority says the Z71 model is also going to be included in the lineup.

At the official debut for the two new SUVs, Chevy did reveal the Z71 edition of the Tahoe, but not formally as an available package. As the staff of Motor1.com reported on the blog last week, the Z71 is now a model trim, and will also exist for the larger Suburban. Since the Z71 package has been so wildly popular in past years, it makes sense for it to be available despite some reluctance to admit the release during the fall. Z71 is the means and package for a unit to become off-road ready. Expected would be the addition of height-adjustable Air-Ride suspension, skid plates underneath, and front fascia that makes for better clearance for approach angles.

It's also expected to see the presence of a monochromatic exterior treatment and grippy all-terrain tires, other additives that help with conquering off-road trails. When we have seen people from a distance off-roading on our various travels, sometimes you ask yourself, “Why are they going so slow? Can't they move just a bit faster over the tree roots and rocks in their way?” and the truth is until you have done serious off-roading yourself, it is hard to realize just how much damage you can do to your underbelly, and just how vital components such as the skid plates are during the drive.

Both vehicles will now boast an even more open and spacious cabin, a more comfortable ride, and six trims with their unique flair. There are the usual enhancements that Chevy has become such a class-leader with, such as nine best-in-class separate camera views, and the Rear Seat Media System with twin 12.6-inch displays. Tim Herrick, VP of global product programs said last year that “This program is unprecedented in size and scope, and amount of capital injected into it”.

At any one time during the new Suburban and Tahoe's development, 10,000 people were working on architecture to assure that these models were unique, durable, and dependable. The most fuel-efficient option is now going to be the new Duramax 3.0-liter I-6 turbodiesel that is available on all but the Z71. Chevy is alone in producing a full-size diesel SUV, and many will be sure to get excited enough to hastily call one their own for the New Year!