5th Generation GM SUVs Look and Sound Better Than Ever

New Products from Gibson Performance Exhaust change the tune of America’s favorite SUVs.

According to GM Authority, General Motors posted a 4% year-over-year increase in sales during Q1 2021. Gains were likely driven by full-size SUV sales (up a whopping 132%), which themselves are partially attributed to the release of the all-new 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.

The Tahoe and Yukon nameplates stem from the early 90s, after GM rebadged the Blazer and Jimmy to introduce a modern SUV to the modern world. Americans bought them up in droves, cementing the popular platform as the gold-standard in full-size sport utility vehicles for over 20 years.

The GM SUVs, like most late-model trucks, carry a hefty price tag. But the marketplace continues to prove that buyers will pony up and pay out in large numbers. There is simply no replacement for a safe, reliable, accommodating, and capable vehicle that can manage the day-to-day operations and lend itself to weekend chores or family getaways.

Bigger & Better

The 2021 models mark the 5th generation release of these vehicles and introduces a complete refresh inside & out. New styling, new suspension, and new technology make for a thoroughly reformed SUV that is already surging in demand.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes is the adaptation of an independent rear suspension – a first in the vehicle’s lineage. The switch to IRS allows for the vehicle’s floor to drop 5.3 inches, creating more cargo room and a significant increase in leg space. (An impressive 10 inches in the Yukon, much to the delight of 3rd-row travelers.)

Keeping in line with the vehicle’s utility-derived history, these full-size body-on-frame SUVs are made for hauling. Comfortably accommodating up to nine people – and all of their stuff – GM’s Tahoe and Yukon are heavy duty and tow rated for up to 8,400 lbs.

In order to be capable of hauling large loads, both the Bow Tie and GMC versions come standard with a 5.3-liter V8. For a powerful motor, one would be advised to enhance the vehicle with a sporty exhaust.

Enter: Gibson Performance Exhaust and a product line well suited for these bold SUVs.

Gibson has designed eight different systems, all specifically crafted for the 2021 Tahoe/Yukon equipped with the standard 5.3L engine. Each exhaust system comes completely hand fabricated out of all stainless-steel material. Configurations range from dual split, dual sport, and single versions with either a black “elite” coated tip, or traditional polished finished tip.

See them in action and hear the exhaust notes in the video below.

All kits include Gibson’s SFT performance muffler which, according to the company, provides a nice solid tone outside with almost-stock sounds inside. That means, you can enjoy the power, sound, and looks of a robust system while still keeping the family happy on long road trips.

A Quick Rundown

Gibson recommends the Single Side Exhaust for improved acceleration, maximum hill climbing, towing, and passing power. Quieter in the cab than any other performance exhaust, it still offers horsepower gains of 10-15 hp and 15-20 lb-ft of torque. (Exits behind the rear tire.)

Those wanting a little more style while also keeping the exhaust system from affecting their tow trailer should check out the Dual Sport Cat back exhaust. Offering a powerful deep exhaust tone with no annoying noise inside the cab, this system offers average horsepower gains of 10-15 hp and 15-20 lb-ft of increase torque. (Exits behind the rear tire for a unique look.)

For the enthusiast seeking maximum style and mild sound, the company suggests the Dual Split Cat back exhaust. Decrease backpressure and produce more torque, enjoying increased horsepower (15-20) while maintaining similar factory interior sound levels. (Dual split exit straight out the back, plays nicely with most bumpers, roll pans and trailer hitches.)

Aggressive all around, the Dual Extreme Cat-back system throws a powerful exhaust note while still keeping things calm inside. Gibson says owners can expect gains on average of 15-20 horsepower, as well as plenty of turned heads. (Exits behind the rear tires at an aggressive angle.)

Choosing the perfect exhaust for one of these new SUVs depends on both vehicle styling and owner preference. Gibson’s website makes navigating the choices less complicated by presenting programmed results. Check out all the configurations here.

Simply enter your vehicle into the year/make/model search function and select from the available applications. Each product profile contains detailed information, features and benefits, pricing, diagrams of exhaust routing configurations, installation instruction, as well as accurate media consisting of images, video, and sound.

Why upgrade to a performance exhaust?

OEMs are trying to make profits through vehicle sales, so they spec out their vehicle platforms with best value for investment. This process typically tames things down with cost effective components. But to really answer why you should upgrade to an aftermarket exhaust, just listen here! Those throaty exhaust notes from Gibson’s new Tahoe/Yukon products are proof enough.

Really, one should ask: who doesn’t want to upgrade a vehicle with a performance exhaust?

An aftermarket exhaust system versus an OEM product is like comparing a seasoned maestro leading a symphony to a hobbyist playing an instrument for their own enjoyment. It’s all about sound, composition, and performance. True performance comes from improved flow of exhaust fumes, which allows the engine to breathe easier or exhale in higher volume.

The secret to a throaty and desirable exhaust note comes from several factors, and Gibson believes it has mastered what customers want through its stainless steel Superflow Muffler which pushes a vigorous deep tone while increasing style and performance.

GM claims its 5th generation flagship SUVs are bigger, better, and bolder than ever. The 2021 Tahoes/Yukons prove to be worth their weight and value. However, like most automotive enthusiasts, if we don’t hear it, we aren’t looking at it.

We crave top shelf performance, of which the automotive aftermarket offers improved upgrades that the OEMs will not, or simply cannot, provide. As long as there are vehicles packing combustion engines, we can expect performance customizers and producers of performance exhaust.

For over 30 years, Gibson Performance Exhaust has been producing high-quality USA-made products. As styles and preferences fade in and out with trends and marketplace demands, Gibson has landed on a winning formula. The company sells hand-crafted & stylish exhaust systems designed to improve performance, featuring hassle free bolt-on installation and paired with a lifetime limited warranty. Learn more at https://gibsonperformance.com/