The sound of a vehicle’s exhaust can have a huge impact on the overall driving experience. For example, a quiet, refined exhaust note is essential for long highway journeys, while the ability to unleash a throaty roar during spirited driving adds excitement and character. GM already offers this flexibility with its dual-mode active exhaust system (RPO code NPP), which is available for certain trims of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500. However, the feature is conspicuously absent from General Motors’ full-size SUVs, and in our opinion, it’s a missed opportunity.
For General Motors’ truck lineup, the dual-mode exhaust system is available for the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 engine, and is optional on the RST, LT Trail Boss, ZR2, and High Country trims for the Chevy Silverado, as well as SLT, AT4, AT4X, and Denali trims for the GMC Sierra. Dual-mode exhaust is also standard on the GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate.
The system allows drivers to switch between a quiet, understated exhaust tone and a more aggressive sound with the press of a button. And considering the Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade share the same T1 platform and L87 engine as the Silverado and Sierra, making the dual-mode exhaust available for the SUVs should be relatively straightforward, at least from a technical standpoint.
Currently, General Motors offers the Cat-Back Performance Exhaust system (RPO code WBC) as an optional upgrade for its full-size SUVs. While this setup delivers a robust and sporty sound, it lacks the flexibility of a dual-mode exhaust.
So, why isn’t a dual-mode exhaust available on General Motors’ full-size SUVs? According to Steve Kersh, program engineering manager for the Tahoe and Suburban, it’s a matter of customer demand.
“The Tahoe and Suburban represent a different customer base, and what they’re asking for is different [than what Silverado customers are asking],” Kersh explained in a conversation with GM Authority. He added that GM’s SUVs already offer sporty options like the RST Sport Package for those who want a more aggressive sound.
However, given the rising demand for customizable and performance-oriented features across the SUV segment, adding a dual-mode exhaust option seems like a no-brainer for General Motors’ full-size SUVs.
Which leads us to ask – would you like to see a dual-mode exhaust available for General Motors’ full-size SUVs? Let us know by voting in the poll, and share your thoughts in the comments as well!
Comments
No, not if it’s packin’ a 4 cylinder!
You can’t get a Tahoe or Suburban with a four cylinder. It’s V8 only.
yes on the 6.2L V8 and maybe consider a SS trim that has the same drivetrain as the escalade V
Muffler bypass systems should be banned in my opinion. My wife and I
are cruising in my Miata ,top down, enjoying the Nova Scotia scenery when
some lead foot with a late model Camaro sneaked up on us and floored
it just as he was going by. I’m sure it was a straight pipe as I thought it was
either an earthquake or a 747 landing on the highway. Good for a laugh I
guess, on his part anyways.
The factory system wouldn’t sound like a straight pipe. It’s a lot more subdued, even with the flaps open. Here’s how it sounds on a Sierra/Silverado:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2025/01/listen-to-the-gmc-sierras-dual-mode-active-exhaust-video/
Vinnyjeep, Some people never grow up. They just grow old.
This site is full of them.
Make them electric and save on exhaust parts forever!
And mine more COAL and Uranium and burn more Diesel to produce the Electric your silly EV Energy Hogs require.
For GMC Denali Yukon XL , I would order one today if available. Also, WITHOUT SUN ROOF, SECOND ROW BUCKETS, POWER RETRACTABLE RUNNING BOARDS AND DVD PLAYER. All the manufacturers are following the cookie cutter route, all the same equipment, you have no choice. Currently have a 2018 of this model without the unwanted options.
I can understand wanting to forego the rear seat entertainment system, which – by the way – is no longer DVD-based. But if you don’t want the rest of those features (like sunroof and power retractable steps), you probably don’t want a Denali in the first place…
Couldn’t agree more. Picked up a pre-owned, clean, 2018 Yukon Denali with those options, except for the silly 2nd row bucket seats, and the Sun Roof, retracting running boards and DVD are just worthless add ons.
I’ve been on the fence about a new full size GM SUV; this feature would definitely be a game changer. Full disclosure: My other ride is 2011 Z06. The exhaust and manual sold me the minute I took my test drive. Lol
Another GM official out of touch with customers. I purposely waited for 2025 to order a Yukon Denali Ultimate with this exhaust system. I spent over $100,000. For a vehicle and didn’t get what I wanted.
Jegs and Summit Racing offer exhaust cutouts that can be welded into your exhaust system. You just need to find someone skilled at fabrication and welding. It would be nice if it as a factory option though.
why did you purchase then, if not what you wanted ?
Clueless leadership at GM. Probably a good friend of Mary quite contrary.
Until leadership changes at GM, the will remain pathetic.
On the Escalade V you can switch from quiet to louder sport exhaust whenever you want. This keeps the neighbors from hating you!
TP, you could have picked a better screen name. Chances are if you’re driving an Escalade your neighbors already hate you, with Envy.
Put a Stainless, aftermarket-replacement, less restrictive muffler on them and gain a little MPG and better engine breathing efficiency. Far less costly from one of the reputable muffler companies like Magnaflow than the ridiculous upcharge the General will add to the MSRP.
Some guy in a real car pass’s a rice burner and the driver of the burner is whining. Typical!!,
several things here, first gm must learn to build a L87 that will last iff the showroom floor. second, if the exhaust is not true dual with x-pipe, wasting your money.
Cost is an issue for many buyers, me included. That being said, every addition that’s necessary to accommodate an option like this costs more to build even if you decide you don’t want it. Also, if I find a vehicle I like that has this option and I don’t want it, I pay for it anyway to get the other things I want. Most muffler shops can install just what you want and probably at a much lower cost. I had much rather see GM add some interior options like a “deluxe interior” option with tan or silver carpet and headliner, wood grain dash, console and door trim, maybe some carbon fiber. Up until a few years ago, I traded for a new car or truck every 3 or 4 years but not any more, no more black carpet, never.
I can’t believe there is a market for this option.
90% of them are for hauling kids and stuff around.
Go ahead and tell me that you would pay for an option like this.
You are a unicorn.
The number one model for the Yukon is the Denali targetting the middle aged guy/lady who is looking for luxury at a “reasonable” price.
And you are telling me they are going to put an exhaust system on there to blow away the parents in the pick up line at school. Give me a break.
A little research on how many custom exhaust systems are sold for these trucks would tell us whether it would be a good option. I am 68 and I would order it .
Bill, That’s because you’re a deaf old man, and this way you could tell your truck was running.
Too many posers on this site.
They talk about I would have bought this but, I would have bought that but, as they drive around in their 20 year old beater.