GM to move Tahoe and Yukon to lightweight platform

You know it’s really sad that it took gas-prices reaching an average of $4 a gallon for such moves to take place, but like they say; better late than never. According to source, GM is considering shifting its two big gas-guzzling SUVs, the Chevrolet Tahoe and the GMC Yukon, to a lighter and more fuel-efficient platform.

While the future of other big SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Suburban are unclear, it is possible that all will be produced in very limited numbers using alternative fuel-efficient powertrains to..
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w209w114 - 6/9/2008 11:23:27 AM

+1 Boost

Thank god. Its about time.

pushrod27 - 6/9/2008 1:52:25 PM

+4 Boost

At the prices they're going for, a slightly used 2007 Escalade seems rather tempting to me now.

t_bone - 6/9/2008 11:03:02 PM

+1 Boost

It would make a nice woodshed for the backyard!

SteveL - 6/9/2008 6:07:07 PM

+1 Boost

I have got to wonder why they just did not do this when they redesigned the Tahoe. Even if gas was cheap it still would had been the right call. OH well it will give them a good reason to say "the all new" Tahoe.

91z4me - 6/9/2008 6:54:28 PM

+3 Boost

I don't think the current Tahoe going onto a lighter platform would have been a great idea at the time the decision was made. The GMT900 chassis is top of the class and with the new interiors and attention to detail they really jumped out of their class when they came out (about 2 years ago). It is really only now that gas has risen sharply that it makes sense to change the winning formula that everyone (including Toyota) has been chasing to catch.

LACMAN - 6/10/2008 4:22:10 AM

+1 Boost

I dont know if its because Im a Cadillac fanatic or whatever but I would rather see GM drop the Yukon from its next "light-weight" full-size truck platform.

The Yukon steps on the Tahoe's toes and the Denali version steps on the Escalade's toes.

Arent the Tahoe and Escalade more profitable for GM?

dumpsty - 6/10/2008 10:46:23 AM

+2 Boost

This was a "no-brainer" decision....

However, GM should keep the Suburban & Yukon XL on the current GMT-900 platform, at least for utility & towing purposes. The Tahoe/Yukon/Escalade/Avalanche should be built on the new lightweight architecture.

Hopefully, this new platform will allow for immediate use of the hybrid 2-mode transmission (AWD/RWD), independent rear suspension, and fold-flat 3rd row seats. They can throw in whatever engine (V6 or V8) available, as long as it has at least 300hp (300lb-ft) and can utilize a multi-cyl-displacement system with the 2-mode transmission.