Mountains, Mudslinging, and More: Z71 Off-Road Trim Takes Center Stage in Tahoe, Suburban Sales

Our full-size SUVs have always been a customer favorite here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse, as many drivers are looking for large-scale people movers to get the job done! The Tahoe and Suburban both offer six very sweet trim levels, with a variety of different styles and features to hit the road with. There’s the entry-level LS, the mid-range LT, the trail-ready Z71, the sportier RST, the upper-end Premier, and top-of-the-line High Country.

This assortment offers up many different features that have added to our brand’s appeal for so many decades, but there’s one trim level that stands out from the rest as far as popularity. Chevy marketing exec Todd Brown claimed that the Z71 trim level accounts for 23 percent of the total vehicle sales of this sturdy pair, which could be surprising to some. For the 2024 model year, some of the Z71’s highlights include two front-mounted red recovery hooks, 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and the all-protecting performance front skid plate. 

The adaptive air ride suspension allows for on-the-spot adjustments that assist with off-roading and challenging terrain, and 4-wheel-drive is included as standard. Demand for the Tahoe and Suburban’s Z71 models is expected to increase over the next year, since GM is offering both models with a 3.0-Liter I6 LZO turbodiesel Duramax. This powertrain is a replacement for the 3.0-Liter I6 LM2 turbodiesel and cranks out 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque minus a long crank. You can take things to the next level with the naturally aspirated 5.3-liter V8 L84 gas engine, proudly affixed to the GM T1 platform.

The 2024 Suburban comes equipped with a massive interior, high towing capacity, and newly revised infotainment system. The Suburban has been in continuous production longer than any other vehicle in the nation. The Suburban is 15 inches longer than the Tahoe, with an incredibly useful 16 cubic feet of additional cargo room behind the 3rd-row seats. This has long been known as America’s quintessential hauling king and remains a strong contender for any operation that deems itself a full-fledged fleet. 

So many drivers love that the Suburban is one of the most spacious vehicles out there that isn’t a van, while also exuding so much more personality than other large SUV models. Here, this popular Z71 trim offers uphill descent control, a unique front fascia to improve ground clearance, and a very stunningly cloaked black and dark chrome exterior trim.

The 2024 Tahoe is incredibly popular for its spacious cabin, excellent technology features, and wide variety of engine choices. It is rugged and yet still very well domesticated. The Z71 trim is perfect for this vehicle which is a workhorse with a dutiful penchant for wandering in the wild. Without completely over-reaching, the Z71 treatment adds the cool extras of chunky all-terrain tires, the skid plate, and a distinctive honeycomb grille.

The Tahoe also snagged up the honors of the “Best Large SUV of 2024” from J.D. Power and remains a strong choice for anyone wanting to carry a lot of people or bring a trailer along for the fun. For the ultimate in off-road preparedness, the Off-Road Capability Package also offers adaptive dampers to take on the ruts and ravines of the wild.

2024 Chevy Trailblazer Boosts Already-Strong Curb Appeal W/ Stylish Makeover

As buying trends ebb and flow here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse, the models with the most practical appeal always stand out strongly. The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer was the topic of discussion on the U.S News car blog last week, as its recent facelift adds new safety and technology options, fresh colors, and a captivating new exterior styling. One of the features that are aligned perfectly with current demand is the larger 11-inch diagonal center display, along with an 8-inch diagonal driver information center. 

Just for starters, this addition is standard across all trims, which is quite an improvement over the 7-inch screens residing in earlier models. This bigger screen also features the Chevy Infotainment System, allowing for handy over-the-air software updates, built-in Google compatibility, Google Assistant, and the ever-useful Amazon Alexa. Apple services are also available in the 2024 infotainment system, which offers Siri’s assistance as well as Apple Music. The 2024 Trailblazers also provide the benefit of a Wi-Fi hotspot if you already have an active AT&T data plan, and the LT, ACTIV, and RS trims boast wireless charging.

The watchful high-tech eyes of Chevy Safety Assist are standard on all trims, and include automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, and lane assist with lane departure warning systems. You’ll also be cruising with full-on confidence courtesy of following distance indicator, forward collision alert system, and adaptive cruise control. It’s not just an “everyday and usual occurrence” when new colors are added to the mix, as this is an opportunity to make your Chevy stand out supremely. The 2024 Trailblazer adds Cacti Green, Copper Harbor Metallic, and Jet Black with an exterior Artemis accent. 

We know that it adds to the already foot-tapping excitement factor when there are new features to check out during the test drive, and the 2024 Trailblazer doesn’t disappoint! There is a new front fascia, trim-specific grille and lighting designs, standard push-button start, standard cruise control, and a higher definition rear camera now standard. The Motor Trend review team praised this year’s Trailblazer model for its ample cargo space and roomy second row, along with its 29/31 mpg city/highway fuel economy factor. 

The RS Trim extends a healthy nod of appreciation towards all things aggressive and sporty that came from decades of creating America’s favorite cars! It offers up black-out exterior trim, a modified mesh grille, chrome dual exhaust tips, and flashy 19-inch wheels. The Activ model is the one that confidently boosts your trail-conquering abilities, with sport-terrain tires and off-road-tuned suspension. Safety ratings are one of the most important qualities as consumers choose between many options, and the Trailblazer’s 2023 model received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. 

Standard equipment also includes one USB-A port, one USB-C port, and a four-speaker audio system. You can double down on the sound experience with a premium Bose seven-speaker setup, with most everything in the engine bay remaining the same and powered by the turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder. A few extra additions of previously optional equipment will also now be included on all models, including push-button start, cruise control, and a high-def backup camera. 

2023 Chevy Blazer “Redefines Sporty Crossover Segment” W/ Muscle-Car Dynamics, Striking RS Trim

Here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse, we think the 2023 Chevy Blazer is the perfect balance between a practical daily driver and an envy-inspiring ride, with its attractive looks, engaging drive, and top-notch features. The Blazer is poised for competition, doing battle against the likes of the Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Honda Passport.

Even though the Blazer has strayed a bit from its roots, it is still one of our most popular nameplates. The 2023 model enjoys a few minor visual updates along with several enhancements to its comfortable cabin. There is now a 10-inch infotainment display, along with the convenient addition of adaptive cruise control. 

The Blazer’s Camaro-inspire looks always resonate well with anyone who likes a little muscle in their vehicle, and the Autoblog staff claimed after a test drive that the Blazer’s infotainment offerings are superior for the segment. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE in-car WiFi along with Onstar and 4 USB ports sweeten the deal for any driver or passenger who is healthily tech-obsessed. The touchscreen is simple to use and boasts very clear icons along with the “from business conference to the campsite” friendly bonus of wireless device charging. 

The back seat slides enough to easily bring little ones closer for those up front, or quickly free enough space for a home improvement or after-school sports practice haul. The base engine is the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that cranks out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive as standard. Eagerly on standby next in line is the 2.6-liter V6 that cranks out 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, rendering the Blazer as one of the quickest crossovers on the market with a 6-second 0-60 mph time. The RS trim is available with the highly advanced all-wheel-drive system that offers a torque-vectoring rear differential to improve traction. 

Even the four-cylinder model provides excellent power for everything from commuting to celebratory end-of-week cruises with great handling, and not too much roll. The RS trim offers the benefit of the sport-tuned suspension, which will assure that you enjoy even the impromptu grocery run with a corner-hugging and satisfying grin! The Chevy Safety Assist package is included on all trims, adding the protective benefits of forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, a forward distance warning, and automatic headlights.

Perfect five-star crash ratings are quite a bragging right, and the Blazer scored them in all five categories, offering more incentive to let this killer example of the bowtie brand be your next choice! The Edmunds.com team praised the Blazer for being “more playful in turns than its competitors”, and for being rich with styling that consistently counts as the leader of its exciting class.

A Dose of Trucklike and Ideally Sized Q4 Cheer: Next-Generation Chevy Traverse to see Full Release in 2023

All eyes here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse were on the GM Investor Day last week, which thoroughly details what direction Chevy will be headed for regarding release and development in the next few years. Upcoming vehicles and new technologies are discussed and presented, giving us a clear picture of what to report back to our customers regarding the vehicle beat next year. Here it was officially confirmed that GM is now working on the next generation of the Chevy Traverse crossover, with a scheduled launch next year. 

It should arrive as a 2024 or 2025 model and will continue to ride on the GM C1 Platform, which is the signature support for the mid and full-size variants we love to provide and service here every day. The Traverse has built its massive appeal and popularity upon its three-row charm and sensible position in the middle of the market. The current 2023 Chevy Traverse is powered by the naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 LY gas engine, which is rated at 310 horsepower and 266b-ft of torque. 

GM Authority also broke down the towing capacities of this popular vehicle, as many potential buyers are curious about the types of toys and useful equipment they can lug around during their downtime. The Trailering Equipment Package is the entry point for segment-leading capability in this department, as it increases the weight rating and adds a heavy-duty cooling system along with a trailer hitch. This package also includes hitch guidance with hitch view, a huge benefit to anyone hauling a form of precious cargo.

Traverse models that are equipped with the optional trailering equipment package offer a Max trailer weight rating of 5000 pounds. Those without it are rated at 1500 pounds. The 2023 model drew heaping praise from U.S. News auto review for its “peppy V6, room for up to 8, and awesome interior build materials.” Impressive across the board with a long list of standard tech and driver-assistance features, you’ll also love its ample passenger space in all three rows.

The V6 provides more than ample thrust, and returns admirable fuel economy, while the suspension keeps things comfortable and adaptable with changing terrain. As the holiday season is fully upon us, another popular addition is active noise cancellation, which provides some peace and quiet in the cabin while you're constantly on the move. Once rows two and three are folded down you'll be working with 98.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which is handy for a delivery side hustle or spur-of-the-moment IKEA run! 

The Traverse has won so many over because of its large size, while other editions such as the red line edition package offer up black details and very cool red accents. New colors for this year include Radiant Red Tintcoat and Sterling Gray Metallic, while the LT Leather trim provides high-end comfort and convenience not found on the base LS model. Built by the hard-working and always dedicated workers in Lansing, Michigan, we’ll keep you posted on any updates regarding the design and release of America’s favorite mid size and festivity-ready SUV! 

2022 Chevy Silverado Trail Boss Lays Claim to the Brash Heavy Hauler + Perks of Google-Assistant Powered Cabin

The 2022 Chevy Silverado Trail Boss is one of those incredibly sought-after models here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse that boasts a tough and capable stance with its diesel engine, nicely lifted suspension, and mud-ready all-terrain tires. Truck lovers nationwide are being clued into the fact that the Silverado is loaded solid with very advanced technology, including a massive infotainment overhaul that is intelligently powered by Android and Google Assistant. 

Last year’s Silverado boasted an 8-inch display, but this and the other gauges have now been replaced with the 13.4-inch Chevy Infotainment 3 system and the 12.3-inch all-digital instrument cluster. The Infotainment 3 system is based on Android Automotive OS and allows for the hassle-free integration of a variety of useful Google services such as the Google Play app store and Google Assistant voice commands. This system is conveniently baked into the hardware and can access onboard OnStar Services for valuable data, so it will work if you happen to hurry out the door without your phone. 

You can quickly log into Google using the touch display, then retrieve suggestions for a destination, reminders for your lengthy to-do list, and other functions that are useful during the drive. This will also give you valuable access to Google Maps, which can prove its worth as the ultimate virtual assistant by syncing recent and saved locations, your contacts, and more elements that boost your productivity in a split second. The ability to easily install apps from the Play Store allows you to check out your favorite podcasts, music, and news along with other apps that can be downloaded and stored onboard. 

The Google Assistant software will still work without a signal, by quickly tapping a button on the steering wheel or by simply speaking “Hey, Google”. Here you can quickly start phone calls, text messages, navigation destinations, or access Google Home smart devices and have full control of the Silverado’s well-integrated climate control. There is also a standard wireless phone charger here on the center console and the dashboard is stocked with USB Type-C and Type-A ports, along with a 120-volt AC inverter in the bed that is ideal for tailgating appliances and power tools. 

The Trail Boss comes standard with 4-wheel drive, but you have the option of rolling heftily with any engine available for the 2022 Silverado, ranging from the 2.7-liter turbo 4-cylinder up to the 6.2-liter V8s. EPA fuel ratings are estimated at 21 mpg combined, and you can always opt for a trail-prepped and very sweet 2-inch lift on Z71 monotube shocks and protective skid plates. You’re also going to love everything “above and beyond '' about the Trail Boss Premium package: it adds the superior touches of leather trim, a spray-on bed liner, perimeter lighting, a power lift, and a release tailgate.

2023 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Bison Honed to Ultimate Trail Guide with AEV’s Expertise

The majestic and jaw-dropping scenery at Yellowstone leads to a memorable trip, with photographers, hikers, and over 4 million wilderness enthusiasts worldwide flocking there annually. After being hunted with so much a fervor that it was nearly extinct, the American bison has now been spotted more frequently roaming here, impressing all the park’s occupants with its stability and lay of the land. Here at Mid Missouri Powerhouse, we love our very own common sighting of the Chevy Silverado ZR2 Bison, and the fact that its own population is about to double in size.

The new Silverado was expertly developed by the off-road specialists at American Expedition Vehicles: These are the ones you can trust with every nook, rut, rock, and boulder that could ever show up in your path. The existing ZR2 already comes locked and loaded with the best brush protection as the five underbody skid plates, rocker-panel protectors, and replacement front and rear stamped-steel bumpers are up for the damaging elements you come across frequently in the wild.

These sturdier bumpers allow for steeper approach and departure angles, and you’re already sailing ideally headstrong with a ground clearance of 11.2 inches. The new Bison also boasts a tweaked body-colored grill bar and a matte-black panel on the Multi-flex tailgate, in addition to custom AEV and Bison badging for the interior and exterior. With this truck there is plenty to be excited about when you are planning a trip to nearby off-road spots here in Missouri such as Flat Nasty off-road park of the Ozarks: here you’ll be greeted with 850+ Acres of rugged land to explore.

All these skid plates and extra protection will definitely get some use at this primo local-area playground, as well as the exclusive 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. While the rivalries fester in the competitive models of the Ford F-150 Raptor and Ram 1500 TRX, the Chevy Silverado ZR2 Bison’s specific drive mode settings for rock crawling should keep it appropriately ahead and on top of other archrivals. You’ll also be guaranteed to navigate deep enough into the wild to make good use of the recovery points, adding a practical solution if you ever find yourself needing a strong-armed pull.

There are still fairly solid rumors of an upgraded Duramax diesel engine arriving just in time for the 2023 model year, and potentially paired with the delightfully lethal ten-speed automatic transmission. While some firm critics may claim that the ZR2 doesn't have quite enough expert-grade off-road chops to cut it in the extreme wild, examples from AEV Outfitters in the past have absolutely proved otherwise. We’ll keep you posted here on the blog about other developments regarding this off-road beast and wish you all the best during your search for the perfect vehicle right here at the Powerhouse!