2023 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Performance can hit 97 km/h in 5.78s

When Chevrolet distributor The Covenant Car Company Inc (TCCCI) officially launched the all-new Tahoe at this year's Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), they only revealed one variant – the Z71 with the 4WD package.

This trim level gets huge all-terrain tires wrapped in 20-inch alloy wheels. And when it came to its powertrain, it had the tried-and-tested 5.3-liter EcoTec V8 that pushes 355 PS and 518 Nm of torque. While impressive, we have yet to see Chevy bring in the more powerful variants of the Tahoe.

And just like forbidden fruit, Chevrolet has released a sportier version of the midsize SUV at the 2022 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Say hello to the 2023 Tahoe RST Performance Edition, which has (slightly) more power, improved handling, and better stopping power.

First and foremost is its engine. While it still comes with a 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 from the regular RST, this particular Tahoe benefits from Chevrolet Performance induction and exhaust systems. The result is 439 PS along with 632 Nm of torque. This translates to an increase of 13 PS and an additional 9 Nm of torque. While the upgrades are minimal, this still allows the Tahoe RST Performance Edition to go from 0 – 97 km/h in just 5.78 seconds and hit the quarter mile in 14.2 seconds at 156 km/h – 0.2 seconds quicker than a standard RST.

Helping the Tahoe shave off speed comes courtesy of Brembo brakes. The front discs are 25% larger than the ones found on the regular SRT while the calipers themselves are finished in a unique Torch Red color. Chevy also made sure the brake pedal delivers a performance-calibrated feel.

The suspension of this Tahoe was also given attention. It now gets police-spec springs, retuned dampers, and police-spec chassis calibrations derived from the Tahoe PPV (police pursuit vehicle). Last but not least, the Tahoe RST Performance comes with 275/55/R20 Firestone Firehawk Pursuit tires wrapped in 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels painted black.

“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. 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,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet.

Do you think Chevrolet Philippines could make this available for interested Tahoe buyers? Let us know in the comments what you think.