Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012: Test Drive

Previously, we had the opportunity to handle the hybrid variant of the Chevrolet Tahoe. This time, we find ourselves with the same model but now taking the highest level of equipment under the “LTZ” version. The Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 is a full-size SUV that offers space, comfort, great towing capacity and quite reasonable fuel economy.

 

KEYS OF THE CHEVROLET TAHOE LTZ 2012

 

Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012
By Louis Rivera (Camera/computer) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons

1.Engine and Performance

The Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 is powered by a V8 Vortec engine of 5.3-liter that combines power and efficiency. It is known with its 320 horsepower at 5 400 rpm and 335 lb.-ft. of torque at 4 000 rpm. The engine is coupled to a Hydra-Matic  6L80 transmission, which is automatic, of 6 speeds that in this case works related to a system of 2WD traction.

According to the estimates of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), this model has the ability to traverse a distance of 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, if combined – 17 mpg. Undoubtedly, it has very good record considering that this is a large vehicle with a weight of 5.558 lbs (2 471 kg). In fact, we are talking about the SUV with the best fuel economy in the segment.

One of the mechanisms that give it this good fuel consumption is the “cylinder deactivation” system. This system makes the engine run with only four when driving at cruising speed.

 

2.Interior Design and Towing Capacity

Its size and power make the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ stand out on interior cargo space and towing capacity. This seven-passenger SUV has a cargo volume of 108.9 cubic feet (3.084 liters) behind the first row of seats when the second row is folded. It has 60.3 cubic feet (1 707 liters) behind the second row and 16.9 cubic feet (478 liters) behind the third row. As for the towing capacity, the figure is set to 8 500 lbs (3 855 kg).

 

3.Very well equipped interior

As we mentioned at the beginning, the version “LTZ” is the most equipped of the Tahoe line. In this version, Chevrolet achieved a friendly atmosphere inside, which is comfortable, luxurious and entertaining. This all is because of a variety of elements among which:

 

–          Leather upholstery,

–          Electrically adjustable seats with a heating ventilation system,

–          Access buttons on the steering wheel,

–          Tri-zone climate control,

–          SiriusXM satellite radio,

–          Bose sound system,

–          Bluetooth connectivity,

–          USB port, etc.

 

Additionally our test unit has the package “Sun and Entertainment Package”.  This package includes a power sunroof and a rear entertainment system with DVD, headphones and a remote control.

 

4.Price

The initial price of the Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 is 52 745 dollars.

 

At the wheel of the Chevy Tahoe LTZ 2012

The Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 is one of the most comfortable vehicles on the market. The interior is very spacious and has the capacity to transport up to 7 passengers with plenty of room to move their legs and heads. The second row seats are also extremely

comfortable. The third row is more suitable for the little ones of the family. It was also noted for the amount of compartments which allow storing items along the entire vehicle. Others point that in your favor are the clear design of the central console, the use of soft materials in the interior, the information and the entertainment systems, and how quiet the cabin is.

After driving it, you will like the suspension system. The filter prevents it from the roughness of the road. It is a car which start is slow to accelerate but then in the progress performs satisfactorily. In the winding field a recommendation would be to be more careful. Overall, we enjoyed this vehicle. It is a model that is not just great but easy to drive as well.

 

Security Systems

In the area of safety, the Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 is a model that has been very well prepared. We can mention as outstanding features:

 

–          Front airbags,

–          Side and curtain airbags,

–          “Stability Track” system, which reduces the risk of overturning the vehicle in maintaining the driver’s desired path by applying the throttle, braking or a combination of both,

–          Parking assistance related to a rear camera,

–          Blind spot monitoring,

–          Anti-lock brakes,

–          Monitoring air pressure of the tires,

–          Intelligent Key with a button for “panic alert”

–          And a designed structure to absorb energy in the event of an impact.

 

We should not forget the OnStar System that is present in each of the versions of the Tahoe. This technology provides immediate assistance in case you have an accident or the vehicle has been stolen. A recent study claims that OnStar has surprised 439 million interactions for the last 16 years or since its existence.

 

Rivals

– Ford Expedition

– Nissan Armada

– Toyota Sequoia

– GMC Yukon

– Honda Pilot

 

Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 Conclusions

The Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 2012 could be considered as an “intelligent” SUV. They know how to market in their favor each of the elements that help for the well positioning as one of the best in the segment. The vehicle stands out for having a powerful engine and at the same time is efficient. It has a large transport capacity; it is of a safety class and provides a wide range of entertainment and comfort features. Definitely, it is a car to take into account if you have a large family and want to move here and there as “kings”.