Chevy finally did it. Finally, he made the mighty 6.2-liter V8 optional on more versions of the Tahoe. For 2021, it was only available in the RST sport version. Now, it’s available in other trims, and for this big SUV, it makes sense to have a big, powerful, and spirited V8 powering it forward. Does it make sense to move up to the 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 for the most powerful Tahoe on the road?
Is the Chevy 6.2 a good engine?
The 6.2-litre V8 engine has gained quite a following in recent years, and not just because of its monstrous power. Wards Auto named it one of the top 10 winning engines in 2019 when it came out because it’s powerful, safe, but also because of its unique Dynamic Fuel Management system that helps you save gas. Compared to previous versions of the big V8, the newer versions get 13% better fuel economy. And, ask anyone who drives a big truck, the fuel economy savings add up.
According to 4WheelDriveGuide, the 6.2-liter is a robust engine that, with regular service, can go 250,000 miles. Sure, you can order other engines for the Tahoe. The 3.0-litre Duramax diesel is still available, and the 5.3-litre EcoTec V8 is also available. But, they are much less powerful.
How much horsepower does a Chevy 6.2 engine have?
The 6.2-liter is not subtle. No. It makes 420 horsepower and 467 pound-feet of torque. The diesel makes the same amount of torque, but produces a paltry 277 horsepower. While the Tahoe can tow a maximum of 8,400 pounds with the 5.3-liter, with the 6.2-liter it can only tow 8,100 pounds. That difference is likely due to the added weight and complexity of the big 6.2. With that, the fastest Tahoe can hit 60 mph in less than six seconds.
The 6.2-liter was all-new for 2019 and was dropped in the redesigned 2021 Tahoe. At launch, it was only available in the street-focused RST version. Now, the RST, Z71, High Country and Premier packages are available. The RST is the sporty model and commands a premium with its high-performance brakes and Magnetic Ride Control shocks. With the performance of the 6.2, it makes sense, but some of us would rather wrap ourselves in the Premier’s leather.
But what about gasoline consumption?
The 6.2-liter gets the same mileage as the 5.3-liter V8. That’s thanks to the new Dynamic Fuel Management system, which deactivates some cylinders. But, there is one problem that won’t save you too much money at the pump. The 6.2-liter calls for more expensive premium gasoline, while the 5.3 can run on a base 85 octane.
How much is the 6.2-liter V8?
The Tahoe is not a budget SUV, with a base price of $56,095. However, it is well equipped in any Tahoe version. The diesel engine adds about $1,000. You have to upgrade the Z71 version to get the 6.2, and that SUV’s base price is $66,195, however that increases to $74,800 for the 6.2-liter. Yes, that’s a lot for 65 more horsepower, but not everyone can say that their truck’s engine is based on that of a Corvette.
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