The commercial edition of the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe full-size SUV comes in a single Fleet trim level. As with its more exotically endowed siblings, the Tahoe Fleet boasts standard 8- to 9-passenger capacity, as well as nearly 109 cubic feet of total cargo area, a V8 powerplant and a good number of the amenities found in the base Tahoe LS.
Outside, this commercial-grade trim is equipped with 17-inch steel wheels, side assist steps, a trailer hitch and wiring, heated power-adjustable mirrors and a roof rack. Inside, the conventionally powered Tahoe Fleet boasts vinyl or cloth upholstery, depending on the seat configuration chosen (front bench or bucket seats), with a power-adjustable driver’s seat and full power accessories, all standard. Cruise control and tilt-wheel steering are, of course, standard, as are tri-zone manual air conditioning, OnStar Directions and Connections service, and an MP3-capable single-CD player with 6 speakers and standard satellite radio.
Options for the Tahoe Fleet are understandably limited, with splash guards, side window weather deflectors and taillamp protectors being about the extent of available goodies.
A variable-valve-timed (VVT) 5.3-liter Flex Fuel (FFV) V8 engine and 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission with the traditional locking rear differential are standard aboard the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 2012 Tahoe Fleet. Look for 320 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque from this potent powerplant, good for 5,500 pounds of towing with the standard tow hitch, while cylinder deactivation at highway speeds does what little it can to keep mileage at an estimated 15 mpg city/21 highway.
Standard safety features aboard the Tahoe Fleet include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags and 3-row head airbags. Daytime running lights and OnStar emergency services, meantime, are additional standard safety items.
