The Chevrolet Tahoe may not the first model that comes to mind when one thinks about performance SUVs, despite GM’s efforts with the sporty-flavored RST package.
Two years ago, Chevy released the Tahoe RST, the brand’s fastest and most powerful SUV ever. When fitted with the available Performance Package, the Tahoe RST packs a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 420 hp and 460 lb-ft (623 Nm) of torque. Linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the potent V8 enables the bulky SUV to sprint from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.7 seconds.
All that sounds good, but will it drift? While we’re sure no buyer would ever ask that question, GM decided to answer it by letting professional drifter Ahmad Daham take the Tahoe RST for a spin — literally. Daham, an official Red Bull athlete and Guinness World Record holder, put the Tahoe RST to the test at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi during a drifting session organized by Chevrolet and Red Bull.
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST
As the video can attest, the Tahoe RST can drift, particularly the standard RWD model. However, 4WD models feature a rear-wheel-drive mode that allows the driver to have some fun, especially if they dare turn off the stability control.
Obviously, any attempt to drift the 2019 Tahoe RST should only take place on a closed course and the driver should know what they are doing — it may look easy in the video but getting a 2.5-tonne SUV to drift requires some skill.
“In the drifting community, we don’t typically use SUVs for stunts and competitions. But the Tahoe RST is a beast. Its powerful engine, excellent handling, and performance technology make it an insanely fun and capable car to drift, which is why it stands out from other SUVs for me as a professional drifter,” said an overly enthusiastic Ahmad Daham after drifting the Tahoe RST.