The Chevrolet Tahoe (GMTK2UC/G) with the 5.3 EcoTec V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s full-size SUV. Produced from 2014 to 2020, this variant occupied a central position within the Tahoe lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and price. It was part of the fourth generation (GMTK2UC/G) Tahoe, which brought substantial improvements in refinement, technology, and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessors. This model catered to families and individuals needing substantial passenger and cargo space, along with the added security of all-wheel drive for varied weather conditions and light off-road use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tahoe |
| Generation | Tahoe (GMTK2UC/G) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec V8 (355 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3 (325.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 16.8 l (17.75 US qt | 14.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2577 kg (5681.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3310 kg (7297.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 733 kg (1615.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 433 l (15.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2681 l (94.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3810 kg (8399.61 lbs.) |
| Length | 5181 mm (203.98 in.) |
| Width | 2044 mm (80.47 in.) |
| Height | 1889 mm (74.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2946 mm (115.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1744 mm (68.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.5° |
| Departure angle | 23.2° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/65 R18; 275/55 R20; 285/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18; 9.0J x 20; 9.5J x 22 |
Introduction
The Chevrolet Tahoe GMTK2UC/G, specifically the 5.3L EcoTec V8 with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Chevrolet’s SUV offerings from 2014 through 2020. This generation Tahoe represented a move towards greater refinement and capability. Built on the GMTK2UC/G platform, shared with the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade, the Tahoe aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and respectable fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. The 5.3L V8/automatic combination was a popular choice, positioned as a sweet spot in the lineup, offering more power than the base V6 but at a lower price point than the available 6.2L V8.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tahoe variant is the 5.3-liter (5326 cc) EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated with the GM engine code L83. This engine features direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and variable valve timing. Direct injection improves combustion efficiency and power output, while active fuel management allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, enhancing fuel economy. The L83 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The automatic transmission paired with this engine is a six-speed 6L80-E, known for its durability and smooth shifting. This transmission is electronically controlled and features a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel efficiency at highway speeds. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6L80-E automatic transmission combination delivers adequate performance for a full-size SUV. Acceleration is respectable, though not particularly sporty. The 6-speed automatic provides smooth and generally timely shifts, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather and on slippery surfaces, making it a capable vehicle for year-round use. Compared to the base V6 Tahoe, the 5.3L V8 offers a noticeable increase in power and towing capacity. However, it falls short of the performance offered by the 6.2L V8, which provides significantly more horsepower and torque. The weight of the Tahoe, combined with the automatic transmission, does impact fuel economy, but the active fuel management system helps to mitigate this to some extent.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8 AWD Tahoe was available in various trim levels, including LS, LT, and Premier. The LS trim served as the entry-level option, offering standard features such as cloth upholstery, a basic infotainment system, and keyless entry. The LT trim added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, and rear parking sensors. The Premier trim represented the highest level of luxury, offering features such as premium leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, a power liftgate, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and rear-seat entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Tahoe GMTK2UC/G utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features an independent, short-long arm design with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employs a solid axle with multi-leaf springs. This suspension setup is tuned for a comfortable ride, but can sometimes feel somewhat floaty. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control during emergency braking situations. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes an automatic limited-slip differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8 AWD was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, some critics noted its relatively poor fuel economy and somewhat cumbersome handling. Compared to other trims in the Tahoe lineup, the 5.3L V8 offered a good balance between performance and price. The V6 model was more fuel-efficient but lacked the power needed for serious towing, while the 6.2L V8 offered more performance but came at a higher cost. In terms of reliability, the L83 engine and 6L80-E transmission have proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with oil consumption and transmission shifting.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Tahoe GMTK2UC/G 5.3L V8 AWD remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of space, capability, and relative affordability makes it an attractive option for families and individuals needing a large SUV. The L83 engine and 6L80-E transmission are known for their durability, and with proper maintenance, these powertrains can provide many years of reliable service. While newer Tahoe models offer more advanced technology and improved fuel economy, the GMTK2UC/G generation remains a capable and well-rounded vehicle that continues to hold its value.
