2007 SUVS AT A GLANCE
Depth and breadth of lineup:
Chevy Tahoe, Suburban and Avalanche
GMC Yukon , Yukon XL, Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali
Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT
Three body styles; light- and heavy-duty models (Suburban and Yukon XL)
2WD, 4WD and AWD models
Seven powertrain combinations
Builds on segment-leading quality and comfort reputations
Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade available in first quarter 2006
Chevy Suburban and Avalanche, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL Denali, Cadillac Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT available in second quarter 2006
Assembly plants: Arlington , Texas ; Janesville , Wisconsin ; Silao , Mexico
Crisp and contemporary exterior styling:
All-new refined exterior styling with differentiated brand elements
Brand-unique front end sheetmetal, lamps and wraparound fascias
Unique doors, front fender vents on Cadillac models
Sleeker, more aerodynamic windshield angle
Improved body-to-wheel proportions
Larger standard wheels/tires – 17- and 18-inch – and larger available wheels – 20- and 22-inch
Unsurpassed interior refinement:
All-new, spacious interior design with superior refinement
Use of premium materials with lower glass levels
Flush fits and close-outs that conceal seat hardware
Instrument panel positioned down and forward for increased visibility and spaciousness
New seat construction advances class-leading comfort
Thinner, sculpted seats with more fore/aft travel, providing great legroom and knee room
Increased storage capacity in center console and glove box
Exclusive luxury interior on Cadillac models, with unique instrument panel, door panels, seats, console and instrumentation
Quiet interior through extensive use of noise-reducing materials, spray-in damping, foam and seals
Exceptional driving experience:
Increased horsepower and segment-leading fuel economy
Wider front and rear tracks, with lower center of gravity
All-new fully-boxed frame with hydroformed front and rear sections
New coil-over-shock front suspension
New rack-and-pinion steering system
New brake system with larger four-wheel discs, 50-percent stiffer calipers and next-generation four-channel ABS
Gen IV small-block Vortec V-8 powertrain family, including aluminum cylinder blocks, fuel-saving Displacement On Demand technology and variable valve timing
Six-speed automatic transmission
Comprehensive safety and security:
360-degree occupant safety protection, including segment-exclusive rear pretensioner sensors
5-star frontal crash ratings anticipated
Strengthened chassis and body structure improves crashworthiness; frame designed for compatibility with smaller vehicles
Roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with tethers for all three seating rows
Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with new rollover mitigation technology
Rear camera system
Leading comfort and convenience:
Power-assisted rear liftgate
Innovative power fold-and-tumble second-row seat
Power-articulating running boards
Enhanced DVD entertainment system with larger 8-inch screen
New CD/MP3 radio family
Touch-screen navigation system
Heated first- and second-row seats
Remote vehicle starting system
Heated windshield wiper fluid
RainSense automatic windshield wipers
DETROIT – General Motors introduces its all-new, 2007 full-size SUVs – comprehensively redesigned vehicles that incorporate new powertrain, chassis, safety and interior systems. These integrated systems are captured within refined, distinctly designed packages that lead the segment in performance, safety, efficiency and capability. They offer more power and better fuel economy than the vehicles they replace – vehicles that already were the segment leaders in fuel economy.
The rollout of the new SUVs is led by Chevy Tahoe, the industry’s best-selling full-size SUV; the professional grade GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali, and Cadillac Escalade – the cultural king of ultimate SUV luxury. All have distinct identities yet share fundamental traits that support segment-leading capability, quality and performance.
“With a dramatic level of refinement and performance, our next-generation full-size SUVs have what takes to sustain their dominant position in the industry,” said Gary White, General Motors North America vice president and vehicle line executive for full-size trucks. “Our objective was to improve upon the segment-leading qualities of our current vehicles – capability, safety, quality and fuel efficiency – and raise the bar to new levels of exterior style, interior execution, power, ride and handling smoothness, quietness and comfort. The results are vehicles with segment leadership in all of these attributes.”
Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade are available early in the first quarter of 2006. Extended-wheelbase versions, including Chevy Suburban and Avalanche, GMC Yukon XL and Yukon XL Denali, and Cadillac Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT are scheduled for introduction in the second quarter of 2006. In all, the new SUV platform supports two wheelbase lengths – 116 inches (2,946 mm) and 130 inches (3,302 mm) – three bodystyles and 12 different models, including light- and heavy-duty versions. Production of the new SUVs is shared among three North American assembly plants: Arlington , Texas ; Janesville , Wisconsin and Silao , Mexico .
The range of configurations and models – particularly the heavy-duty models, which most competitors simply do not offer – give SUV customers tremendous choice when selecting a vehicle to suit their needs. The strengthened chassis of 1500-series models (short wheelbase) enables towing ratings of 7,200 pounds (3,266 kg) for most 2WD models and 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) for most 4WD models. Long wheelbase models continue to offer segment-leading towing capacities of up to 9,800 pounds (4,445 kg).
“There are no peers when it comes to the capability of GM’s full-size SUVs,” said White. “The breadth of products means customers don’t have to compromise when accommodating their lifestyle choices, and vehicle-wide improvements increase the capability of the new vehicles in exactly the ways that drive customers to full-size SUVs.”
Along with segment-topping capability comes enhanced efficiency. Refinements that characterize the new Gen IV small-block V-8-based powertrains, including Displacement On Demand technology and variable valve timing, advance GM’s full-size SUVs as the most fuel efficient in the segment. The new SUVs provide more horsepower and better fuel economy than previous models, which were the segment leaders in fuel economy. The sleeker, more aerodynamic styling of the new SUVs also contributes to their more efficient performance.
Exterior design and features
The new SUVs have distinct brand identities with unique styling cues. All vehicles are characterized by a sleeker, cleaner and athletic form that is more aerodynamic and appear smaller in stature. Attention to detail found in elements, such as wraparound fascias, styled mirrors and integrated running boards, enhance the vehicles’ flowing design and bolster the feeling of refinement.
All major sheetmetal and body components of the ’07 models are new and feature crisp, taut lines that convey the capabilities expected from full-size SUVs. Distinctive styling creates a unique look for each brand’s models, with differentiated front-end sheetmetal, lamps and fascias helping to create wholly different appearances. Cadillac Escalade models also are distinguished by prominent front fender vents and specific front and rear doors that are shaped to fit the unique bodyside contour created by the front-end sheetmetal.
A sleeker, toned look on all models is created with faster windshield angle of 57 degrees, which flows gracefully into the roofline. This also improves aerodynamic performance to a segment-best 0.363 cd (short-wheelbase models), which helps improve fuel economy and reduce wind noise. The more aerodynamic bodywork encapsulates interior systems that offer increased roominess and cargo space, while measuring only approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) in increased length when compared to the previous-generation models. (Vehicle length varies slightly between models.)
The Chevrolet Avalanche and Cadillac Escalade EXT cast unique profiles with their open cargo areas and segment-exclusive Mid-gate re-configurable cargo systems. The ’07 models feature more integrated styling, enabled by the platform’s “clean sheet” redesign and more aerodynamic roofline. A cleaner look also is created with the elimination of lower-body cladding.
All models have premium cues, such as jewel-look lighting elements, wraparound fascias and doors that extend over the rockers, which accent the vehicles’ precise and refined design elements. The headlamps are larger, with Chevy and GMC models using bright halogen bulbs that deliver improved lighting spread, when compared with previous models. Cadillac models are equipped with bold High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. Rear-end styling also is distinct among the brands, with unique treatments above the beltline and around the glass, including taillamps and integrated license plate pockets. Cadillac models also receive unique rear fascias, LED taillamps, bright work and integrated trailer hitch treatments.
Larger standard and available wheels, including optional 20-inch wheels on Chevy and GMC models, as well as 22-inch wheels on Escalade, are tailored to fit the wheel openings. This precise wheel-to-body relationship – including a wheels-at-the-corners stance – gives the vehicle a more refined look and, with the chassis’ wider track, a more athletic presence and lowered stance.
Numerous standard and available features complement the new SUVs’ design, including new-design flat-blade windshield wipers, standard front tow hooks (4WD models), an available power-assisted rear liftgate, available factory-installed articulating running boards and a larger available sunroof. Refinement is evidenced in details like integrated tow hitch receivers and the front tow hooks. These features are blended into the exterior design rather than added to it, giving the vehicles a smoother appearance while maintaining their capability and ease of use.
Interior systems and features
The all-new interior styling of GM’s 2007 full-size SUVs continues the refinement story with a premium, more spacious design and distinct styling among the brands – including an exclusive interior design for Escalade models.
The cabin space is roomier – including increased cargo capacity – and has a spacious, luxurious environment, thanks to a premium two-tone color scheme and a lower-positioned instrument panel. New thinner, sculpted seat designs and trim reassert the vehicles’ leadership position in comfort, including heated seats for first- and second-row passengers. Also, the front seats offer more fore/aft and recline travel, and the second-row seats have an increased seatback recline angle for increased comfort.
The two-tone interior appearance bolsters the vehicles’ aura of a roomy, luxury sedan. The upscale styling is complemented by new, softer and low-gloss materials for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. The harmonious color and grain of the materials was carefully selected to provide a premium feel as well as durability. Flush-mounted controls and radios, with almost imperceptible gaps, convey precision and integration. All models feature distinct, brand-specific colors, instrument panel trim and gauge trim.
Attention to detail also is revealed in unexpected areas: distinctive sill plates with no visible hardware greet occupants when the doors are opened and there are no exposed fasteners or hardware on the pillars, seats or seat tracks. The seats have “close-outs” that surround the seat bottoms and seat tracks, creating a more finished appearance. Fasteners and hardware are covered, too, when the seats are folded.
The SUVs also are packed with innovations and enhanced convenience features, including a new industry exclusive power fold-and-tumble rear seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat, as well as a power-assisted rear liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button. The power fold-and-tumble second-row seats feature release buttons accessible by the driver or on the interior C-pillar to provide an easy, immediate release of the seat to create an access path to the third-row seat or cargo area. The standard operation of both the rear seats and liftgate also were designed with attention to detail and ease of use. Manual-control rear seats fold and tumble with one-hand ease and little effort. And, the incorporation of a micro-switch touch pad integrated into the ergonomically designed pull handle for the liftgate provides effortless opening without the power assist. A specially designed pull handle and grip pad aid closing efforts, as well.
Chevy Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL have standard manual-control tri-zone climate control. Automatic tri-zone climate control is available on Chevrolet and Yukon models, and standard on Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade models. An available remote starting feature allows the climate system to heat or cool the vehicle’s interior, based on the feedback of electronic signals that determine the appropriate climate settings.
An enhanced array of audio, infotainment and safety options also is available and includes an available touch-screen navigation system, as well as a DVD system with larger flip-down screen. The new family of radios incorporates integrated XM Satellite Radio capability and plug-and-play MP3 capability.
There is more space inside the SUVs, as well. More fore/aft front seat travel provides the segment’s leading legroom for front-seat passengers. Second-row seat legroom and knee room, and third-row seat headroom are increased over the previous models. The second- and third-row seats also have more shoulder room – a feat accomplished while also offering available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags. Cargo room of the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade has increased by 4.2 cubic feet (118.9 liters) behind the second row seats and 2.3 cubic feet (65.1 liters) behind the third row. The third-row seats fold flat and are easily tumbled forward or removed for maximum cargo area. Also, the center console storage compartment, at nearly 20 liters of capacity, is the segment’s largest. The glove box offers 25 percent more storage space than previous models and features damped opening operation that bolsters quietness and refinement.
Vehicle-wide elements work harmoniously to make the new SUVs’ interiors among the segment’s quietest and most refined in the industry. Refinements are found in the sill panels, premium-quality materials, new seat “close-outs,” as well as headliner. The woven, sculpted and tailored headliner was designed for more headroom and maximum use of space. The form-fitting headliner features sun visors and pull handles that are tucked up into pockets for spaciousness and all-around premium appearance. The vehicles also feature extensive noise-reducing and sound damping material, as well as other noise suppression attributes in the chassis and body structure to provide an exceptionally quiet driving experience.
Cadillac Escalade models feature an exclusive luxury interior, including a unique instrument panel, instrumentation (with continuously lit white-LED backlighting), seats, door trim and center console. Escalade also receives enhanced premium materials and features, such as unique instrument lighting, fabric-covered interior pillars, available heated and cooled front seats and an available heated steering wheel (also available on Yukon Denali models). Escalade models also offer enhanced radio systems and an available DVD entertainment system that includes flip-down screens for the second- and third-row occupants.
Driving experience
At the core of the new SUVs’ “live bigger, drive smaller” mission is an engaging combination of performance, responsiveness and comfort that channels the vehicle-wide refinements into an effortless driving experience.
“The new SUVs’ refinement extends to the driving experience and it is apparent from the moment you turn the key,” said White. “The first thing you have to do is look at the tach to make sure it’s running – these vehicles are so quiet. They are more predictable, athletically responsive, smooth and precise, giving you confidence behind the wheel.”
Powering the SUVs’ sophisticated driving dynamics is a more powerful and more efficient powertrain system, based on the Gen IV small-block V-8 engine family, which uses advanced technology such as Displacement On Demand, to help reduce fuel consumption. Displacement On Demand works with other powertrain technologies and vehicle enhancements, including substantially improved aerodynamics, to provide better fuel efficiency.
A Gen IV small-block V-8 is standard in all models, with displacements ranging from 4.8L to 6.2L, and horsepower ranging from 290 (216 kw) to 400 (298 kw).* Variable valve timing technology is used on some engines to enhance performance and efficiency. The engines are backed by proven Hydra-Matic electronically controlled automatic transmissions, including a new 6L80 six-speed. A more robust rear axle design also supports the vehicles’ increased performance and capabilities.
Engine offerings for the new SUVs include:
4.8L iron block (RPO LY2), rated at 290 horsepower (216 kw)*
5.3L iron block (RPO LY5) with Displacement On Demand technology, rated at 320 horsepower (238 kw)* (including E85-capable version – RPO LMG)
5.3L aluminum block (RPO LC9) with Displacement On Demand technology and E85 capability, rated at 320 horsepower (238 kw)*
6.0L iron block (LY6) heavy-duty engine with variable valve timing, rated at 350 horsepower (260 kw)*
6.0L aluminum block (L76) with Displacement On Demand technology and variable valve timing, rated at 355 horsepower (264 kw)*
6.2L aluminum block (L92) with variable valve timing, capable of 380 and 400 horsepower (283 kw to 298 kw)*
A new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 6.2L engine. It has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. The 6L80’s six forward gears have smaller “steps” between them, compared to a conventional four-speed automatic, which bolsters both performance and the feeling of smoothness. Shorter steps between the gears help the transmission quickly find the best gear for the vehicle speed and road conditions, with less back-and-forth hunting on grades – a trait that is particularly helpful when towing. Also, the 6L80 has a “tap up/tap down” capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.
Perhaps the biggest enabler to the ’07 SUVs’ uncommon road manners is a new, fully boxed frame that offers 49 percent increased torsional stiffness and 35 percent improvement in beaming frequency, compared to previous models. The frame supports wider front and rear tracks – approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) wider in front and 1 inch (25.4 mm) wider in the rear – that enhance stability and driving confidence through a more secure road feel and a lower center of gravity.
The front suspension consists of an all-new coil-over-shock design that delivers linear, solid and unwavering ride and handling characteristics on all road surfaces. Also new is a rack-and-pinion steering system that provides precise and responsive control and enhanced on-center feel. A highly-refined five-link rear suspension provides superior isolation and ride, with larger, firmer brackets that also contribute to the vehicles’ precise driving manners.
Larger, four-wheel disc brakes and an all-new ABS system from Bosch ensure GM’s new full-size SUVs will deliver braking performance at the top of the segment. Larger vented front and rear brake rotors, 50-percent stiffer dual-piston calipers, longer-life brake pads and a new apply system design result in enhanced pedal feel, reduced brake noise, predictable, linear brake response and shorter braking distances. A new, Bosch 8.0 next-generation four-channel ABS system also is standard. The ABS system works with the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. In the new SUVs, StabiliTrak incorporates the first-time GM application of roll-over mitigation, software algorithm technology that uses sensors to proactively predict vehicle “tip-up” and applies appropriate brake forces to prevent such events.
Enhanced driving control and ride smoothness is offered with the available Autoride real-time damping system, which uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make nearly instantaneous damping adjustments. The system “reads” the road and anticipates the best damping rates.
All ’07 full-size SUVs debut with a new family of larger standard and available wheels and tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard on Chevy and GMC models, with 18-inch wheels standard on Cadillac Escalade models. Chevy and GMC models offer up to 20-inch wheels, while Escalade is available with 22-inch wheels. The wheels are designed with premium-appearance faces, including available chrome or polished finish. New tires are tailored to the vehicles to provide excellent balance of handling, quietness and safety.
Safety and security
GM’s new 2007 full-size SUVs are designed to be among the industry’s safest and most secure vehicles, with a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash avoidance technology. New features, including roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows and exclusive safety belt pretensioners linked to sensors for rear-end crashes, are integrated into a stronger vehicle structure that is also designed for improved compatibility with other vehicles.
The roof-mounted air bags’ tethers hold the bags in place longer for increased rollover protection and occupant containment. Sensors located at the front and rear of the vehicles, as well as the side doors provide increased and more immediate crash detection. The exclusive rear pretensioner sensors can trigger the front seat pretensioners during a rear-end collision, holding the occupants firmly in place and helping to prevent whiplash injuries.
The myriad of crash sensors are complemented by increased roll-over detection from the standard StabiliTrak stability control system. The electronically controlled system continuously measures the side angle of the vehicle and, if a rollover appears imminent, it can deploy the side-curtain air bags before the crash occurs. The 360 degrees of detection capability allows the electronically controlled safety systems to deploy in a greater variety of situations.
Crash avoidance is bolstered through enhanced driver control dynamics, such as wider front and rear tracks, as well as more responsive suspensions – including a new coil-over-shock front suspension design and new rack-and-pinion steering. The vehicles are built on a stronger and stiffer, fully-boxed frame that is designed for improved crash energy management. The front frame section, for example, has improved crush dynamics that provide the equivalent of 17.7 inches (450 mm) of additional crush space – in vehicles that are only approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) longer than their predecessors. The frame also is designed for improved vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a frontal impact with a smaller vehicle.
Additional safety and security features include:
Standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology
Standard dual-stage driver’s front air bag
Standard dual-stage outboard-front passenger air bag with passenger occupant detection system
Available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags for all seating rows
Standard front safety belt pretensioners with activation sensors in the front, sides and rear of the vehicle
5-star frontal impact ratings anticipated
Standard tire pressure monitoring system
Available rain-sensing wiper system
Available Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that can detect people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound
Available rear-view camera system that can visually detect people or object in the rearward path of the vehicle
Standard pull-up/push-down power window switches
All models come with the Generaton 6 OnStar system (with a one-year Safe and Sound service plan). The system includes the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an airbag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar Advisor who will check on the occupants or summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen (ability to locate stolen vehicles varies with conditions).
*Preliminary, pending certification. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005 . This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.
