GM’s body-on-frame SUVs will receive significant upgrades over their lifecycle
It seems the new Tahoe and Yukon SUVs, which won’t be hitting dealer lots until next year, will receive significant additions to packaging, powertrains, and capability after their launch, reports Automotive News.
Speaking to Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer for GM trucks, AN has learned an off-road package is in the cards for GM’s new SUVs.
“We are looking at, for this generation, a more off-road variant. Owners just love off-roading with these vehicles. They look at this vehicle as more off-road capable than crossovers,” explained Luke.
Also planned for the future are powertrain upgrades for the body-on-frame family haulers.
“In the life cycle of this product we’re going to continually upgrade and add technologies, including in the powertrain area,” said Luke.
Adding new technologies could leave the door open to fitting GM’s new 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 under the hood. Tahoe and Suburban will initially be offered with GM’s new 5.3L EcoTec3 V8. GMC models will receive the same 5.3L V8 engine with the addition of a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 for Denali-trimmed models. Both engines are mated to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.
When asked if an eight-speed transmission might be offered later on, Luke simply said, “Stay tuned.”
