2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition is the Fastest Tahoe On The Market

The Tahoe is Chevrolet’s most popular full-size SUV at Chevrolet of Spring Valley and the rest of the country as a whole. For the first time, there is a performance-focused model. The new 2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition has more horsepower and performance chassis dynamics than any previous or current Tahoe for retail customers.

Police Hardware

That last little qualifier is something of a giveaway as the Tahoe RST Performance Edition picks up engine, suspension, and brake goodies from the pursuit-rated Tahoe PPV package that has previously only been available for police use. Many of the vehicle’s dynamics are tuned and calibrated by the same engineering team.  

“It’s got a cop motor, a 440 cubic inch plant, it’s got cop tires, cop suspensions, (and) cop shocks.” was the Elwood Blues description to his brother Jake of the Bluesmobile in The Blues Brothers. As a Chevrolet, the Tahoe RST Performance Edition has a different V8 engine, but the idea is the same. 

“The 2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition is designed for those who want the best of both worlds — the everyday comfort and capability of a full-size SUV along with the driving excitement of a true performance vehicle,” said Scott Bell, Chevrolet vice president. “It leverages the proven capability of Chevy’s pursuit-rated police vehicle packages and motorsports success to offer a confident, engaging driving experience for our customers.”

The RST starts with the RST’s available 6.2-liter V-8 with a modified exhaust system to increase output by 13 hp and 7 lb-ft of torque, for a total of 433 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque. The power is sent to both front and rear wheels by the Tahoe’s standard 10-speed automatic transmission. If the increase seems modest it is because most of the effort has focused on improving handling. To this end, handling components of the RST Performance Edition include:

• Police-spec springs and retuned dampers
• Police-spec lower ride height of 0.4 inches in front and 0.8 inches in the rear
• 25% larger Brembo® front and rear brake rotors with unique Torch Red calipers (not police-spec). 
• Performance-calibrated brake pedal feel
• Police-spec Firestone Firehawk Pursuit 275/55R20 tires with black specific 20-inch aluminum wheels

The 20-inch wheels and red brake calipers are the most conspicuous part of the RST Perforamnce Edition.  Aside from the wheels, brakes, and some black badging, its exterior appearance adheres closely to the standard RST.

“We have carefully tuned this vehicle to handle speed with confidence and control that is immediately apparent behind the wheel,” said Dominique Lester, chief engineer. “The pursuit-rated driving dynamics inspire excitement and confidence on the road, and we’re proud to have achieved this level of ride and handling in a full-size SUV largely through performance calibration and tuning.”

The results of the RST’s plain clothes with a badge set-up include a 0-60 mph time of 5.78 seconds, and a quarter mile in 14.2 seconds at 97 mph compared to 5.95 seconds and 14.4 on the base 6.2-liter equipped RST. More notable is the knocking off of over 6 feet in 60-0 braking at 133 feet. Less useful, but nice to know is the top speed increase from 112 to 124 mph. The maximum trailer capacity of 7,600 pounds over the standard 6.2-liter powered RST is unchanged. 

Convenience and Driver Assist Enhancements

In addition to the unique powertrain, chassis, and suspension upgrades, the RST will come standard with the RST’s available Luxury Package, which includes a power tilt and telescoping setting column, driver’s position memory settings, power 60/40 split-folding 2nd and 3rd-row seats, heated 2nd-row outboard seats, heated & auto-dimming driver-side outside mirror, and HD surround Vision. Also included are Adaptive Cruise Control and Enhanced Emergency Braking. 

The RST Performance Edition is an ideal choice for those who appreciate the Tahoe’s size and capabilities but like a more planted and athletic feel as they drive, particularly on winding open roads. The package adds $8,525 over a 6.2-liter equipped RST with 4WD for a starting MSRP of $76,565 and is presently available for order.  If you have any questions, inquire with any of our  Chevrolet of Spring Valley sales professionals.