2012 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ Trim Overview

As the flagship trim of the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe lineup, the LTZ boasts a veritable cornucopia of appearance, comfort and convenience goodies. A roof rack comes standard aboard this 7- or 8-passenger midsize SUV, as do 20-inch polished alloy wheels, heated, reverse-tilting power-adjustable mirrors, a power rear liftgate, trailer hitch and wiring, step running boards and the load-leveling Autoride suspension system. Premium leather, a heated steering wheel, heated power-adjustable front bucket seats, second-row captain’s chairs, power-adjustable pedals, reclining second-row captain’s chairs and full power accessories are surrounded by wood grain and simulated alloy cabin accents, and tempered by tri-zone climate control. Tilt-wheel steering, a universal remote garage door opener, rear parking sensors and cruise control are a few of the notable convenience features, as is an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with integrated rear-view camera.

Techno-wise, look for a standard hard-drive-based navigation suite aboard the 2012 Tahoe LTZ, as well as Bluetooth hands-free calling and OnStar Directions and Connections service. Meanwhile, 10 Bose premium speakers pump sound from the MP3-capable single-CD player or standard satellite radio, all complemented by separate rear audio, real-time traffic and a USB connection.

So much stuff, and yet, there are options available with this quasi-hefty ute. Look for an available heavy-duty trailer-towing package with an integrated trailer brake controller, as well as rear-seat DVD entertainment and/or a power sunroof. Power-retractable side-steps are also available, as are a split-folding leather second-row bench seat for 8-passenger capacity and upgraded 20- or 22-inch wheels.

As with its lesser siblings, the flagship Tahoe LTZ gets its go from the standard Flex-Fuel 5.3-liter V8 powerplant that’s under the management of a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission and standard rear locking differential. This combo will put out a pretty respectable 320 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque, but even with variable valve timing (VVT) and cylinder deactivation at highway speeds, mileage is estimated at a meager 15 mpg city/21 highway. Carrying the proper equipment, however, this hefty Chevy will tow up to 8,500 pounds.

Standard safety features aboard include 4-wheel antilock braking (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags and 3-row head airbags. Front fog/driving lights and daytime running lights are also delivered with this sizeable sport ute, as are OnStar emergency communications services, a post-collision safety system, remote antitheft alarm, a blind-spot warning system and turn-signal-integrated mirrors.