Tahoe Z71 and H2

Hey. I found this forum in a link were I normally hang out at www.camaroz28.com. I would like to ask you H2 guys a question.

What exactly is the relationship between the tahoe Z71 and the H2. I just bought an 03 tahoe Z-71 after looking at both it and the H2. Pics in link below. Anyway, I was reading in a book on the H2 that it is based on the Tahoe chassis but that's all it said. After looking at both side by side at the dealer I noticed that the only thing I could make out different on the undercarriage was H2 stamped on the front skid plate.
I was wondering if they beefed up the trans, or stuff like that, that I cannt physically see. The dealer told me that the Tahoe had a 5.4 liter motor (285hp) and the H2 had a 6.0 one (315hp). The 4x4 buttons and such were the same on the dash among some other minor things. Did GM just take a Z-71 and put an H2 body on it?? I love the H2 look but I couldn't see spending 8 grand more for a bigger motor. I am getting about 15 mpg as it is. :(

Thanks
Jeff D.

I guess everyone is at work so they can make their next payment. ;)

well, my understanding is the Z71 and H2 do share the same platform. The H2 has a shorter wheelbase in length then the Tahoe's but is wider. Also with the shorter wheelbase and the wheels being pushed out you get better stability then the Tahoe's. Interior wise they are almost identifcal. Bigger enginer as you mentioned in the H2. The H2 is all time 4WD which is in part why the gas mileage is worse than the Tahoe's which can run in 2WD. The hummer also has all kinds of additional traction control, locking rear, and 4WD ranges over the Tahoe's. I think this is one of the areas where the H2 steps up over the Tahoe. Of course if your not off-roading this probably means little. Airbag suspension as well in H2's.

Sure ther are other things but these come to mind as some of the differences.

If you do not do serious off-roading then the Z71 may work just fine for you.

The other reason to buy the H2 would be because you like the appearance and image. I would have an H2 even if it were the exact same underneath as the Tahoe because I like the way it looks.

BigH2...Offroading?? I would like to see some mud on that H2 you got there :) Just kidding. Let's be real to are selves. About the only 4X4 most of us do is jumping a curb at walmart and thinking we did something.


I have an auto four wheel drive button in my Z-71. It goes into 4x4 high mode if the rear tires slip. Seems cool. I didn't know that the H2 was all time AWD though. How much are the tires anyway. Mine are 17 inchers. I bet they cost more than my $220 tires for my Z28. :(

Jeff D.

Well, I don't want to debate everyone's use of there H2. I for one do real off-roading with mine and I suspect a high percentage of those who are active on message boards like this one do as well and are not your general user. Sure, there is probably a larger population who don't, but I guess that could be said on any vehicle that has an alternative use than daily ride.

No idea on the cost for tires. Check tire rack if your concerned about the ongoing cost. I'm sure you can find tires reasonably priced.

Some items are shared. The front 1/3 of the frame, steering and basic brake system are from the 2500 Suburban and the back 1/3 from the Tahoe or 1500 Suburban. Then you have some of the cosmetic items also, i.e. buttons, knobs, etc. Check out this article.
http://www.truckworld.com/Sport-Utility/02-H2_preview/02-H2.html

couple things. I think the all time four wheel drive is great but there should be a two wheel drive button option to save gas consumption. Four wheel drive is not always necessary. Secondly, why is there not a steering wheel lock? Third, I do like the ability to turn head light off while driving which is rare these days. Fourth, do you all get poor radio reception?

No complaints on radio reception. certainly can't say I notice any difference in the H2 than my other vehicles but I am only 40 miles or so away from a major city.

Radio reception is fine. Agree on the headlights.