Last redesigned in 2007, early reports indicate that not much will change for the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV. Three of the Tahoe’s available trims (LS, LT, and LTZ) are equipped with only one engine - a Vortec 5.3-liter V8 that runs on either unleaded gas or E85 ethanol. Each trim offers a choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). When running on unleaded gas, all three trims reach 320 hp at 5,400 rpm and 335 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. These numbers increase with ethanol (326 hp at 5,300 rpm and 348 lb-ft at 4,400 rpm). The standard six-speed automatic transmission comes with overdrive and a tow/haul mode. Mileage estimates stand at 15 mpg city and 21 highway. The gross vehicle weight rating is 7,100 pounds with rear-wheel drive, while the four-wheel drives weigh 200 pounds more. Total cargo volume is 108.9 cubic feet, and the standard trailer hitch with receiver should continue to haul 8,500 pounds.

For the environmentally conscious SUV driver, the 2011 Tahoe is available as a Hybrid as well. Also offered with RWD or 4WD, the Hybrid engine is a 6-liter gas/electric V8 with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Hybrid reaches 332 hp at 5,100 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 in both RWD and 4WD models, with mileage estimates of 21 mpg city and 22 highway. The Hybrid's gross weight and total cargo space match the non-Hybrid trims', although the Hybrid hauls less (a maximum of 6,200 pounds).

The LS, LT, LTZ, and Hybrid all offer a front and rear coil spring suspension with a front stabilizer bar and semi-floating rear axle. The multi-link rear suspension should continue to offer off-road comfort, and one report expects an optional suspension package to add an automatic load-leveling feature and variable shock dampening.

Preliminary information suggests that both the interior and exterior of the 2011 Tahoe will remain similar to those of last year’s version. The LS and LT trims offer 17-inch aluminum wheels, while the higher-end LTZ rides on 20-inchers of polished aluminum; the Hybrid splits the difference with 18-inchers. All trims provide assist steps, although the higher-end LTZ has power-retractable running boards. The LS and LT offer heated and power-adjustable driver’s side mirrors, while the LTZ and Hybrid add integrated turn signals and power-folding features. The rear of the 2011 Tahoe continues to open via liftgate, with a standard power-open feature for the LTZ (and optional for the LT). Standard halogen foglamps appear at the front of the LT and LTZ (an option for the LS), and all trims display dual halogen composite headlights. The exterior of the LTZ shows off more chrome detailing, from door handles to a chrome front grille.

Reports also indicate few changes to the interior of the 2011 Tahoe. The LT and Hybrid seat eight, while the LS seats nine, and the LTZ seats seven. New options for the LT and LTZ include second-row bucket seats, rather than a bench configuration. Standard cloth covers the LS seats, while the other trims luxuriate in leather (perforated in the LTZ). The LTZ trim raises the interior style quotient, with woodgrain interior detail, and adds comfort with twelve-way driver's and passenger front seat adjustments, power lumbar control, and heated and cooled front seats, as well as a heated second row with power seat release. Other trims offer six-way adjustable front seats with optional heating and cooling features. All of the leather-wrapped steering wheels in the 2011 Tahoe integrate controls for audio and standard cruise control. Finally, the LT, LTZ, and Hybrid accommodate varying driver heights by providing standard power-adjustable accelerator and brake pedals.

Standard safety features throughout the 2011 Tahoe trims should include a new StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control, antilock brakes, front- and side-curtain airbags, as well as a tire pressure monitoring system, which provides early warnings of low tire pressure. The LT and LTZ emit audible warnings with an ultrasonic rear parking-assist feature, and the LTZ includes a rear-view camera system as well.

Technology features in the 2011 Tahoe should continue to include auxiliary power outlets, USB input, OnStar, and satellite radio. Standard Bluetooth technology for hands-free cell phone use accompanies all trims. The LS features a six-speaker audio system, while the LS and Hybrid rock with Bose premium nine-speaker systems, and the LTZ system delivers the Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound ten-speaker stereo. A navigation system, standard for the Hybrid, should be an option for the LTZ and LT.

Although preliminary information indicates that there will be few dramatic changes to the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, this may not be a bad thing for an SUV complimented by reviewers for its smooth, quiet ride, outstanding steering, and stylish comfort.