Press Release
Chevrolet Announces Safety Enhancements for 1997 Tahoe
10/01/96
Enhancements In Safety & Convenience Highlight 1997 Tahoe DALLAS, Sept. 27 -- The popular, full-size Chevy Tahoe is the best-selling vehicle in its class, and continues to set monthly sales records throughout 1996. That's because buyers have come to appreciate -- even demand -- the new 4-door model introduced in 1995. Whether you choose 2- or 4-door, 2WD or 4x4, Chevy Tahoe is a versatile sport utility vehicle whose strong suit is full- size strength, power and comfort. This unique vehicle also took the truck world's most coveted honor this year, being named Motor Trend Truck of the Year for 1996. Chevy Blazer won the same award in 1995, making this the first time that any manufacturer has won that award back-to-back. Motor Trend cited several reasons why Tahoe was selected, among them: RUGGED ELEGANCE -- Tahoe provides a host of luxury appointments and a quiet ride that rivals many premium passenger cars. But Tahoe is also a dependable Chevy truck featuring a full ladder-type frame that adds strength and support along the entire body, a box-section front end that gives added support for front suspension components, rubber bushings along the frame to help absorb road jolts, and extensive sound insulation and triple-sealed doors that shut out obtrusive road and wind noise. SAFETY -- Safety is important to SUV buyers, and Tahoe meets their needs with many standard safety features. This long list of safety features includes a standard four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) for maintaining steering control and minimizing wheel lockup on most slippery surfaces and Automatic Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) to help make Tahoe easier to see during low-light conditions. A new feature for 1997 is a standard outboard front-passenger facial air bag that adds an extra measure of protection for front-seat occupants. (Always wear safety belts, even with air bags.) RIDE AND HANDLING -- The premium ride of Tahoe begins with an independent front suspension design on both 2- and 4-wheel-drive models that allows the wheels to step over bumps without transferring the shock to the other wheel -- or the passengers. Also, a suspended crossmember on Tahoe 4-door helps isolate front-end vibration and reduces impact harshness. And there's more ride and handling news for 1997. For example, an improved power steering system reduces driver effort. Known as Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) steering, this system makes steering easier at lower vehicle speeds, such as when parking or launching a boat. At higher speeds, steering effort reverts to normal levels. Also, there's good news for off-road enthusiasts. All K1500 4x4 Series Tahoe models with gasoline engines have a reduced turning diameter for 1997, making maneuvering easier through narrow trails or in tight parking spots. POWER -- Tahoe is designed for rugged on-/off-road performance. It offers a standard Vortec 5700 V8 SFI engine with 255 horsepower and a 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission for impressive power and shifting convenience. In addition, a 180-horsepower, 6.5 Liter Turbo-Diesel V8 engine with heavy-duty 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission is optional for the 4x4 Tahoe 2-door model. This year, several enhancements under the hood improve powertrain efficiency and contribute to a quieter ride. A molded 11-blade composite engine cooling fan replaces the steel design and generates less noise. The 4L60-E 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission has been refined to achieve up to a 20 percent increase in pump output resulting in smooth shifts and increased operating efficiency. And a revised clutch plate design reduces the potential for slippage, providing for more efficient operation. COMFORT/CAPACITY/CAPABILITY -- Tahoe 2-Door is available in Standard, LS and LT trim levels, while the 4-door model is available in LS and LT trim levels. Luxurious appointments are standard on every Tahoe model. For example, an illuminated entry feature keeps the interior lights turned on for 20 seconds after the last door is closed. An easy-entry seat adjuster on 2-door models gives quick, convenient access to the rear seat area. And, once back there, passengers are kept comfortable with strategically located heat ducts that help them stay warm in winter weather. Two auxiliary 12-volt covered outlets provide convenient power for cellular phones and other electronic accessories. Uplevel front bench seats include a center armrest storage compartment with a coin holder, a convenient writing surface and a map net mounted on the inside of the lid. LT models feature luxurious leather seating surfaces. Added uplevel features include aluminum wheels and a split-folding rear bench seat with a center armrest that features integral cup and tissue holders. There's new convenience as well for 1997, with a cargo-area door lock/unlock switch. With the touch of a button, all doors on Tahoe can be locked or unlocked from the rear of the vehicle while the cargo doors are open. Capability is one of the strongest Tahoe attributes. It's a superb choice as a family transportation/trailering vehicle, delivering a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds on 2-wheel-drive models (when properly equipped). And, on Tahoe 2-door and 4-door models, buyers may select from panel rear doors or the combination liftglass/dropgate -- whichever best fits their active lifestyles. Tahoe is so capable, it has been tested with police and law enforcement agencies for their applications. Beginning late this year, Chevrolet will begin taking orders for a Tahoe with a Police Package. It will be available with all the police features previously available on Caprice, plus new options, including power driver lumbar support and dual 770 CCA batteries. Production will begin during the summer of 1997. Tahoe is just one member of the full family of Chevy sport utility vehicles -- and this line of SUVs covers the market like no other. From Geo Tracker and Blazer to Tahoe and Suburban, Chevy offers more models to satisfy consumer needs better than anyone else. As a final note, Chevrolet/Geo recognizes the importance of mobility to everyone's life and, therefore, offers financial assistance to persons with disabilities through the General Motors Mobility Program. This program provides financial assistance -- as much as $1,000 -- toward the cost of any aftermarket adaptive equipment for drivers or passengers and/or vehicle "alerting devices" for deaf and hearing impaired drivers. A special feature of the program is single-transaction GMAC financing for the vehicle and its adaptive aids. Further details are available by calling the GM Mobility Assistance Center at 800-323-9935.