Chevrolet enters the high-performance SUV market with the RST Performance Edition, an upgrade of $8,875 for the AWD RST model. With a starting price of $71,015 (excluding destination fee), this enhanced Tahoe promises a driving experience while maintaining a recognizable design.
The RST Performance Edition maintains an appearance that could easily be mistaken for a police vehicle. It rides on 20-inch wheels wrapped in specialized Firestone Firehawk Pursuit tires commonly used by law enforcement. The black badging and Torch Red calipers further enhance its presence, making it clear that this is no family SUV.
Attention to Design Details
While keeping the Tahoe RST black grille and practical side steps, the exterior features additional thoughtful touches like LED lighting units, rain-sensing wipers and a hands-free power liftgate. These design elements may not be flashy, but they contribute to both the functionality and style of the Tahoe‘s exterior.
Interior – A Luxurious Retreat
Inside, the RST Performance Edition continues its approach with changes such as sport pedals to enhance the driving experience. Despite its appearance, the cabin of this vehicle comes with an array of features. These include a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 10.2-inch system and a high-quality nine-speaker Bose audio system. Additionally, the Luxury Package offers some perks, like a steering wheel, power tilt/telescoping steering column, power-folding third-row seats, and heated second-row seats.
Showing Signs of Aging Elegance
However, as the Tahoe has been around for some time now, there are aspects where its age becomes noticeable. For instance, while the infotainment system is still capable and functional, it feels comparatively smaller when compared to rivals like the Toyota Sequoia which boasts a 14-inch display, or the 2024 Traverse with a 17.7-inch screen. Overall, even if it is well-equipped, some buyers might expect more refinement considering its $80,000 price tag.
Ample Space for Comfort
To make up for its age-related shortcomings, the Tahoe makes sure to offer room across all three rows of seating. In fact, it provides a cargo space of 122.9 feet which surpasses competitors such as the Sequoia or Jeep Wagoneer, and even outperforms the Ford Expedition lineup in terms of overall capacity.
The Engine – The Beast Power Source
Underneath that robust hood lies a crafted 6.2 liter V8 engine exclusively designed for the RST Performance Edition variant.
With its upgraded air intake, cone-style air filter and clear lid air box, the engine of the Performance Edition unleashes 433 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to these enhancements, the Tahoe becomes the version accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.78 seconds, while reaching a top speed of 124 mph.
Unleashing Impressive Performance
Pressing down on the accelerator, the V8 engine delivers an exhilarating experience despite the vehicle’s weight of approximately 5,845 lbs. The ten-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear shifts while being complemented by the four-wheel drive system. Furthermore, the Brembo braking system enhances braking performance with discs that are 25% larger compared to those on standard Tahoe RST models. This improvement contributes to a more agile feel while braking.
Inspired by Police Dynamics
Drawing inspiration from the Tahoe PPV playbook, the Performance Edition incorporates police spec springs, chassis tuning, dampers, as well as a slightly lower ride height of 0.4 inches in front and 0.8 inches in the rear. These modifications enhance road-holding capabilities and minimize body roll for increased stability.
Driving Experience – A Blend of Power and Refinement
The Performance Edition strikes a balance between performance and refined driving manners, while it excels on pavement surfaces where it truly shines in terms of performance capabilities; however, one may notice its truck characteristics when driving over rough roads.
The steering and throttle offer a feel in Sport mode which provides a livelier response. Despite its size and weight, the Tahoe maintains a demeanor.
Impressive Safety Features
Included in the Tahoe RST Performance Edition are a range of driver assistance systems, such, as Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Pedestrian Alert, HD Surround Vision system as well as Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert.
Final Verdict – Is it Worth Upgrading?
Priced at $8,875 for the Performance Edition package, it brings modest upgrades to the Tahoe RST. While the cabin may show signs of ageing, the performance enhancements, interior and impressive safety features make the Performance Edition an appealing choice.
In summary
While not necessarily meeting all expectations of enthusiasts, the enhanced brakes and more powerful 6.2 liter V8 contribute to an improved driving experience in the Tahoe RST Performance Edition.
Taking into account the added features and improved performance, the price tag of $8,875 seems reasonable, for the Tahoe RST Performance Edition, becoming thus quite a genuine competitor in the high-performance SUV market.
Video&Media Gallery: 2023 Chevy Tahoe RST Performance Edition! Enjoy!
