The North American International Auto Show is underway and Chevrolet just introduced the 2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition.
Billed as the fastest and most powerful Tahoe ever offered by the bowtie brand, the special edition features a 6.2-liter V8 that has been equipped with induction and exhaust systems from Chevrolet Performance.
Thanks to these changes, the engine now develops 433 hp (323 kW / 439 PS) and 467 lb-ft (632 Nm) of torque, a slight increase of 13 hp (10 kW / 13 PS) and 7 lb-ft (9 Nm). While nobody’s going to confuse it for the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that resides in the Cadillac Escalade-V, the engine enables the Tahoe to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.78 seconds and hit a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h). The model can also run the quarter mile in 14.2 seconds at 97 mph (156 km/h), which is 0.2 seconds faster than the standard RST.
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The performance upgrades extend beyond the engine compartment and a number of components are shared with the pursuit-rated Tahoe PPV, which is a favorite of police departments. While that might sound surprising, the Tahoe PPV features performance-tuned springs and dampers as well as a beefier stabilizer bar.
Chevrolet’s latest SUV also comes equipped with Brembo brakes that feature Torch Red calipers as well as front discs that are nearly 25% larger than those found on the standard RST. They enable the model to go from 60-0 mph (96-0 km/h) in 133 feet (40.5 meters), which is an improvement of 6.4 feet (1.9 meters). Furthermore, the SUV boasts a “performance-calibrated brake pedal feel.”
Other highlights include police-spec chassis calibrations and a reduced ride height that is 0.4 inches (10 mm) lower in the front as well as 0.8 inches (20 mm) lower out back. The model also comes with four-wheel drive and a ten-speed automatic transmission, while its towing capacity remains unchanged at 7,600 lbs (3,447 kg).
Additional changes are limited, but the Tahoe RST Performance Edition features sport pedals and a black “RST” badge on the tailgate. The model also comes equipped with the Luxury Package, which adds a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and a power-folding third-row. The package also includes a power tilt/telescoping steering column and an assortment of driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rear Pedestrian Alert.
According to Chevrolet Vice President Scott Bell, “The 2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – the everyday comfort and capability of a full-size SUV along with the driving excitement of a true performance vehicle.” He added, “It leverages the proven capability of Chevy’s pursuit-rated police vehicle packages and motorsports success to offer a confident, engaging driving experience for our customers.”
The Performance Edition package costs $8,525 and will be offered exclusively on 2023 Tahoe RST models equipped with the 6.2-liter V8 engine. Production is slated to begin in the fourth quarter and deliveries should follow shortly thereafter.