The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2021 Chevrolet Suburban are here, ushering in a brand-new generation replete with fresh styling, fresh features, and more. However, both full-size SUVs also carry over a maximum nine-passenger seating capacity.
The nine-passenger seating capacity is achievable via a three-bench-row cabin configuration with a front bench that replaces the standard captain’s chairs. A front bench seat is a feature that’s been phased out of most other vehicles, but has been available since the previous-generation Tahoe and Suburban, and is not new for the 2021 model year. Still, it’s a feature that is somewhat uncommon, and is definitely deserving of attention.
The front bench seat for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2021 Chevrolet Suburban is officially called the 40/20/40 reclining split-bench, and is tagged with RPO code AZ3. The feature is an available option on the entry-level LS trim, and is standard equipment on the FL trim. To note, FL trims are offered for fleet and commercial orders, and can be paired with specific packages, such as the recently announced Chevrolet Tahoe PPV.
Alternatively, buyers can equip their 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe or 2021 Chevrolet Suburban with front high-back reclining buckets, a feature tagged with RPO code A50. Front high-back reclining buckets are offered as standard on LS trims, and as an available option on FL trims.
Note that opting for the front bench seat deletes the center floor console, thus deleting the USB data ports contained therein. That said, the USB ports in the center stack remain.
As for the second row, a 60/40 split-folding bench with manual controls is standard on both FL and LS trims. Meanwhile, the third row gets a 60/40 split-folding bench with manual controls.
Put it all together, and you end up with a 3/3/3 seating configuration – enough for up to nine passengers.
Is this an option you’d want to take in the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe of 2021 Chevrolet Suburban? Let us know in the comments, and make sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevrolet Tahoe news, Chevrolet Suburban news, Chevrolet news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
definitely keep 9 seat option in Tahoe & Sub. Cadillac & GMC I don’t know, but Chevy is still a large family vehicle; every seat helps. allows 6 in front with back row folded for lots & lots of stuff. Big consoles just collect junk; people loose track of what’s in there. Finally couples occasionally like to sit close
The rambling masses gonna see this article and be like “where are the performance 9 passenger suv’s?” But in reality, this is what SUV’s are, family vehicles and people movers for rough environments and adverse weather. Perfect options for the intended applications of a large SUV.
That interior does look nice but I wish they could have done the hidden behind the screen storage like on my Impala and the current Traverse. Also wishing the highway mileage didn’t drop by as much as 3 on certain Suburban models. That is certainly not going to help the cause considering everything else is getting more efficient moving forward and the Expedition is rated up to 23 highway in 2WD!
I wanted so very much that GMC company’s to launch the Electric rear doors for child security, with a touch of a button to neutralize the opening and re opening them
Sincerely
Michel N.el Khazen.
Finally! Bye-bye, Expedition. Tahoe & Suburban (possibly Yukon as well) are now the definitive passenger SUVs. Now that 9 seats are an option AND independent rear suspension is here, Expeditions are no longer the only SUV that comfortable fits an entire family!
The only thing that could make the Tahoe better is if they kept the column shifter. I’ll really miss that. I was never a fan of the dashboard shifting mechanism. Save that crap for the minivam soccer moms!
Sucks you can’t get a inexpensive 6 passenger sedan anymore but an expensive 9 passenger SUV leads the way…
The only thing that could make the Tahoe better is if they kept the column shifter. I’ll really miss that !!!
AGREED!!!
9-passenger capacity means a specialize service yet no special engine to haul as much as an extra ton; one can just imagine trying drive up a steep hill with 9 people along for the ride.
GM is pushing a 9 pax vehicle? Give me a break. GM goes from a barely 2 pax Volt/Bolt, nothing in between, and then bam a 9 pax tank. GM is confusing it’s customers. But hey, let’s kill the Impala/Lacrosse. Great vehicles. Beam me up Scotty!
The numbers justified the death of Impala and LaCrosse. I guess you forgot about Trax, Trailblazer, Equinox, Blazer and Traverse…..
I’m pretty sure the Malibu is still in production, too. Also the bolt can hold 5 people, albeit a tight fit.
I have had a 2007, 2009, 2010, and now a 2015, all LS with 9 passenger seating. It is the only way I will buy them. There is always a big line of used buyers that make it easy to trade up. I’m at the point that I want a new one but with the 6.2. Unfortunately you can only get the front bench in LS trim with the 5.3. I also like the column shifter and will miss it.
uhm, I need a 9 passenger and cant find one. Do you sell? Where are you located?
What kind of seatbelt does the front middle seat have?
Previous year models only had a lap belt. Looking for a shoulder belt for front-center seat for the 9 passenger.
Front middle seat has a lap belt.
My comment has been awaiting moderation for a month.
I have ordered a 2021 Suburban LS 9 passenger after owning an Expedition. The front bench seat is the reason.
Outstanding! Just waiting for the order to be processed.
I didn’t know they were still offering the 40/20/40 front bench. I really wish I had gotten this option on my 2019 Tahoe Custom Edition. I like having the extra leg room. I’ll definitely have to consider getting it if I order a 2021.
I would order one also if I could get it with the 6.2
I have been unable to get very much information regarding the available options and standard equipment. Can you tell me where I can get this information?
Thanks.
Still waiting for my order of early April to be processed. I ordered a 2021 Suburban LS with the bench front seat along with a substantial deposit.
Can you give me an update on LS ordering and production?
Thanks
John
John des Groseilliers
Please bring me up to date on my 2021 Suburban LS order. The dealer is unable to give me any information.
Thanks,
John
I really like the front bench seat, wish you could get it with leather interior and in the upgraded packages. Not just the ls package.
I do agree! As shown I have an LS ordered with the bench front seat.
John
When I ordered my 2019 Tahoe I wanted the Custom Edition without the 3rd row which was only available in the LS. I then had the front and second row seats upholstered in black leather that matched the factory leather. The dealership had it done for me, and it cost $1,500 including adding heated seats to the front.
Yes AND offer more options for the LS trim, mainly leather & infotainment.
Chevy why can’t this be an option with the Z71. Big families need nice cars too!!!
What would it cost I am sure that many would pay the price to get upgraded front bench seat. We or I would also spend more on the other packages rest,z71, ect. You are missing the boat for your big vehicles Chevrolet. I have owned a suburban or Yukon xl since 1995 and will have one till I can’t drive anymore.
I would like to also add a larger fuel tank option with the 9 passenger configuration.
The 6.2 litre also, and what would really be nice, regular fuel requirement, not premium suggested.