Despite the automotive industry’s push toward efficiency, the V8 engine remains a staple of American SUVs. The Chevrolet Tahoe RST proves this point – offering a three-row SUV with the power to outmuscle dedicated sports cars. Notably, the RST’s optional 6.2-liter V8 generates more torque than a Ford Mustang GT, blending family practicality with surprising performance.
A Familiar Formula, Elevated
The Tahoe RST isn’t revolutionary; it’s an evolution of Chevrolet’s successful SUV formula. However, it delivers a potent combination of space and power, especially when equipped with the larger V8. This engine produces 460 lb-ft of torque and 420 horsepower – figures more commonly associated with muscle cars than full-size SUVs.
Torque King: Outperforming the Mustang GT
Introduced in 2018, the RST variant aimed to provide a sportier Tahoe experience. The 6.2-liter V8 is the key: it out-torques the latest S650 Ford Mustang GT. While the Mustang GT (with performance exhaust) delivers 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft, the Tahoe RST surpasses it with 460 lb-ft. Even the Mustang Dark Horse, Ford’s top naturally aspirated offering, can’t match the Tahoe RST’s torque output.
This isn’t just about bragging rights; the extra torque translates to a 7,600 lb towing capacity for all-wheel-drive models. Rear-wheel-drive versions with the 5.3-liter V8 can pull up to 8,400 lbs, but the larger engine prioritizes sheer power over maximum towing.
Performance Upgrades and Real-World Capability
For those seeking even more, Chevrolet offers a $4,350 Performance Upgrade Package. This adds a performance air intake and exhaust, boosting output to 433 horsepower and 467 lb-ft – further widening the torque gap over the Mustang GT.
Despite its size (around 5,580 lbs), the Tahoe RST is surprisingly drivable. The Performance Edition includes Brembo brakes, Firestone Firehawk tires, and tuned dampers, resulting in improved handling and shorter stopping distances. Car and Driver tests confirmed this, with the RST braking from 60 mph in just 133 feet – 6.4 feet less than the base model.
Family-Friendly Without Compromise
The performance upgrades don’t compromise the Tahoe RST’s practicality. It retains its three-row seating, accommodating up to nine passengers (though seven or eight is more realistic). The 7,600 lb towing capacity remains unchanged.
The Price of Power
The Chevrolet Tahoe RST’s starting price reflects its capabilities. The base LS model begins at $60,995, while the RST trim starts at $71,995 (all-wheel drive with the 5.3-liter V8). Upgrading to the 6.2-liter V8 pushes the price to $81,760 for the all-wheel-drive model. The added cost is substantial, but for those prioritizing power in a full-size SUV, the Tahoe RST delivers a unique proposition.
In conclusion, the Chevrolet Tahoe RST with the 6.2-liter V8 offers a compelling blend of family practicality and surprising performance. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the V8 engine, proving that even in an era of efficiency, there’s still room for raw power in a three-row SUV.
