Autoblog

Click image for gallery

You'll soon be able to get General Motors' 6.2-liter V8 in all three flavors of GMT900 truckness. GM announced today that the 380-horsepower/417 lb-ft eight cylinder will be available in the 2WD Tahoe LTZ beginning in 2008. If you're like us (and by "us" I mean "me") and you think that the Tahoe is the best-looking of the 900s, this is good news, as you'll be able to get Denali power (this is the exact same engine found in the top-of-the-line GMC) at a presumably lower price. This engine also powers the Escalade, where it's tuned to produce upwards of 400 horses. Like its GMC and Cadillac brethren, the Tahoe LTZ's 6.2 is hooked up to a six-speed automatic with manumatic tapshift buttons mounted on the column shifter. And yes, using said feature is about as awkward as it sounds. Maximum towing capacity with this powertrain is 7,900 pounds.

[Source: GM]



PRESS RELEASE:
Chevy Tahoe Powers Up- Offers New 6.2L V-8 in LTZ Model

DETROIT – Expanding its range of capabilities, Chevrolet now offers a new, 6.2L small-block V-8 in the Tahoe LTZ in 2008. Rated at 380 horsepower (283 kW) and equipped with advanced technologies, it is the most powerful engine offered in the Tahoe lineup. The new engine is backed by a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission.

"Tahoe LTZ's new 6.2L engine highlights the wide range of choices available to Chevy customers," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "It also reinforces the Tahoe's position as the most capable full-size SUV on the market."

The Tahoe LTZ 6.2L is available on 2WD models and bolsters a lineup that already includes a variety of powertrain options, capabilities and fuel solutions, including the all-new Tahoe Hybrid and models that are capable of running on E85 ethanol.

Advanced technologies, including variable valve timing, and a lightweight aluminum cylinder block optimize the performance and efficiency of the 6.2L engine; and its 380 horsepower (283 kW) is complemented by a strong torque output of 417 lb.-ft. (565 Nm)*.

A six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission is paired with the 6.2L engine. It features a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. 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.

The Tahoe LTZ 6.2L has maximum towing capacity of 7,900 pounds (3,583 kg).

Tahoe LTZ style, comfort and amenities
Like all Tahoe models, the new, Tahoe LTZ with the 6.2L engine is built on a sturdy architecture that features a stiff, boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and a premium interior that bolsters the vehicle's comfort, quality and capability. Wide front and rear tracks enhance handling and lower the center of gravity for a more confident road feel.

With its uplevel trim and amenities, the Tahoe LTZ is offered with a variety of popular standard and available features, including:

* Power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seat
* Remote vehicle starting system
* First- and second-row heated seats
* Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist
* Rearview camera system
* Touch-screen navigation system
* DVD rear-seat entertainment system with larger, eight-inch screen and enhanced features
* Articulating running boards

Polished 20-inch wheels are standard on the LTZ and an available Chrome Appearance Package includes a stainless steel exhaust tip, chrome recovery hooks and the choice of one of six chrome 20-inch wheel designs.

Tahoe is also designed with a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash-avoidance technology, with features such as standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology. Head-curtain side impact air bags are standard.