2003 Chevrolet Tahoe news, pictures, and information

2003 CHEVROLET TAHOE: REFINING THE REAL THING

A new dual-zone manual control heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is standard on Tahoe. It allows the driver and front passenger to adjust the temperature to their own comfort levels - up to a 30-degree Fahrenheit difference between the two front zones.

New tri-zone HVAC systems provide outstanding comfort. Customers can now opt for a sunroof and rear entertainment system wîth rear electronic climate control - a new system that automatically controls air delivery, fan speed, temperature and recirculating/outside air to provide faster warm-ups and cool-downs.

Manual rear air conditioning is standard. Rear electronic climate control is standard wîth the optional front system, providing second-row passengers an automatically controlled temperature setting independent from that of the front.

Smarter electrical systems

An advanced new multiplexed electrical architecture makes Tahoe even 'smarter' so it can provide more functions for 2003. A communication network transfers data throughout the vehicle. It enables the driver information center, which can be programmed for English, Spanish or French, to monitor and report on as many as 34 system functions - including new service indicators for Stabilitrak, 'Ice Possible' and 'Door Ajar.' Tahoe's instrument panel and cluster have been redesigned to accommodate these new features.

An available eight-button §teering wheel control allows owners to personalize several functions and safely access new infotainment systems. They include duplicate controls for calculating trip and fuel data and provide easy access to the OnStar system. OnStar is an innovative in-vehicle communications and assistance service designed to provide drivers wîth access to live, personalized service and emergency assistance at the touch of a button, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers can use OnStar for hands-free personal calling or have e-mail read to them, in addition to other OnStar services.

The battery-rundown protection now automatically turns off the headlamps and park lamps in addition to interior lights after 10 minutes if left on inadvertently. A more powerful 145-amp generator - which provides a quicker battery charge and slows battery discharge during vehicle operation - is standard. A memory subsystem can remember preferences for seat, mirror, new adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, and climate control settings. A new four-position headlamp switch allows drivers to turn off the daytime running lamps more easily, when necessary.

Tahoe also has a newly designed center console for 2003.

Powertrain improvements

Tahoe's powerful Vortec 4800 4.8L V8 and ethanol-compliant Vortec 5300 5.3L V8 engines receive electronic throttle control (ETC) for a unique 'throttle feel.' New oxygen sensors provide enhanced durability and reduced emissions during engine warmup. Models sold in California feature a more robust catalytic converter system that meets Últra Low Emissions Vehicle (ÚLEV) standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)

Optional second-row bucket seats are now available on Tahoe models wîth leather front bucket seats. The second-row seats come wîth inboard headrests and reclining seatbacks. They provide easy access to the third row seat, and also can be folded to create a flat load floor.

Exterior mirrors feature power-tilt glass and power folding to protect them in narrow spaces; heating elements that clear frost, snow or ice; left-side electrochromatic glass that dims glaring headlights; puddle lights; new turn-signal indicators in the glass; and a memory feature. An available new power-adjustable camper mirror can be extended to a vehicle width of up to 106 inches.

For 2003, Tahoe features two new exterior colors: Sandalwood Metallic and Dark Spiral Gray Metallic.

Tahoe has 104.6 cubic feet of cargo volume wîth the second row seats folded forward. An optional third-row bench seat (except on Z71 models) offers up to nine-passenger seating. The third-row rear seat features a unique 50/50 split-fold design to provide a variety of cargo- and passenger-carrying configurations. The seats can be flipped forward and stowed for more cargo room, or they can be individually and easily removed to provide a flat load surface.

Tahoe's pulling power can be as much as 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. Off-roaders can choose the Tahoe Z71 model, wîth its specially tuned off-road suspension, specific shock absorbers and jounce jumpers wîth standard stabilizer bars. A locking rear differential, four-wheel drive and P265/70R17 all-terrain tires increase traction. Skid plates protect vital underbody components, and OnStar provides added security.