GM is introducing a leaner and meaner platform for the TahoeChevroletand you’d better believe that includes the Cadillac.
The Cadillac Escalade’s rear suspension always followed whatever was stuffed underneath the Chevrolet Tahoe but that’s changing for 2020. As per Autoblog and thanks to a tip from one of their spy photographers, earlier today (Sept. 20,2018) not even camo could hide this Chevrolet Tahoe’s independent rear suspension absorbing bumps and dips, a clear move away from off-road worthiness and more towards one that values a smoother ride.
Solid rear axles are great, they’re simple, durable, and reliable. When one tire gets pushed up on a piece of rough terrain, the other tire will compensate and gets pushed towards the ground helping to keep contact with the road. That’s great for serious off-roaders and people that go off the beaten path often. But, let’s be honest. Rarely do the majority of Chevrolet Tahoes ever go off-road. When you plan to spend $50,000 plus on a family SUV, you’d better believe you aren’t taking that investment off-road.
The fact is that independent rear suspension, although slightly more expensive, offers a quieter and more comfortable ride, something that, ironically, Chevrolet Tahoe owners probably want.
According to Good Car Bad Car, Chevrolet Tahoes continue to sell. For a body-on-frame vehicle that requires little engineering to keep relevant, they’re money makers for GM. Last year they sold 98,961 Tahoes, slightly less than the year before at 103,306 Tahoes. This year sales are a little down month to month but, it’s I suppose not because Tahoes are inherently bad SUVs, it’s that there are a whole crop of competition people would rather spend their money on.
The Durango/Cherokee is miles ahead of the archaic Tahoe. The same goes for the upcoming Blazer. You get as many seats and towing capabilities but it’s a much more comfortable riding experience.
We got hints that GM wanted to turn things around with the Tahoe when they dropped their Tahoe RST with an LS based engine under the hood, a real brute of a SUV. Now, they want to stop fighting against physics and put something customers want, independent rear suspension, as the spy photos show.
The Cadillac looks like a geriatric “has been” when compared to the Navigator. GM can no longer compete with Ford if they continue with a solid rear axle.
So, although dozens of GM faithful will cry foul, the Tahoe and everything else that will have this new platform gets an independent rear suspension.
