Earlier this month, Chevrolet announced that both the Tahoe and the Suburban would be redesigned for 2021 Both SUVs grew in size and have more added features than previous years. While some were less than thrilled about this decision, Chevy seems confident that the cars will be well-received.

A must-have feature for many drivers is smartphone integration. It’s the easiest way to sync either your Apple or Android phone with the car’s infotainment system. Many cars now have both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the standard trim. Is this the case with the 2021 Tahoe? Let’s look at the press release to find out.

Is Apple CarPlay standard?

Good news for Apple users: the Tahoe has been equipped with standard Apple CarPlay since 2016. This hasn’t changed for the 2021 model year. Multiple USB ports are also included in the standard trim. In all models, the touchscreen has been expanded to 10 inches. For those who aren’t as tech-savvy, most of the controls can still be operated with physical knobs and buttons.

New for 2021 is a standard Wi-fi hotspot on higher trims. Pricier trims also feature a rear-seat media package, which includes two 12-inch touchscreens on the back of the front seats. In Premier and High Country models, a touchscreen for third passengers row is also available. Paired with the available Blu-ray player and 10-speaker surround system, you’ll have no problems keeping young passengers entertained.

Safety features

The Teen driver system, a rearview camera and rear parking sensors were the only standard safety offerings on the 2020 Tahoe. For 2021, the base trim got auto-dimming headlamps, a follow-distance indicator, forward collision alert, and front pedestrian braking.

On higher trims, you can get a surround-vision camera, a head-up display, and trailer blind-spot monitors. The Tahoe also got a Max Trailering package for 2021. This includes a trailer brake controller, Hitch guidance, and a cooling fan. Drivers can also download Chevy’s trailer app to get important safety updates, such as tire pressure monitoring. 

Convenience technology

The driver’s seat is extremely comfortable, featuring 10-way adjustability and soft cloth material. The front passenger seat is also highly adjustable. Power-adjustable pedals and a heated steering wheel are also included.

In higher trims, two different types of leather can be used for the interior. Front and second-row seats can also be heated and filled with memory foam. The third row has been lengthened slightly to accommodate even taller passengers.

Chevy also promises that drivers will be more comfortable in the Tahoe thanks to the upgraded suspension. It will have an independent rear suspension, which can be paired with Magnetic Ride control. A new Air Ride suspension is also available, which allows drivers to adjust the SUV’s ride height.

Fuel economy technology

Many environmentalists are concerned that the Tahoe’s larger size. SUVs are typically bigger gas guzzlers than regular cars. The current Tahoe’s fuel economy rating is just average for its class. With the most fuel-efficient engine, it scores 14 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

In the 2021 model, two of the three available engines can be equipped with stop-start technology. This can disengage up to six cylinders while the car is turned on, using less fuel. This will give drivers more gas savings and cut down on harmful greenhouse gases.

The two new SUVs will be released next year.  Both the Tahoe and the Suburban also got three new trim levels for 2021, including the upscale High Country and the off-roading Z71. The wheelbase was also extended to provide passengers with more legroom and increased cargo capacity. The technology offerings are all the same, including standard Apple CarPlay.