GM's New Full-Size SUVs Get Game-Changing Technology Feature

Feb. 22, 2020 1:50 PM ET by Aaron Brzozowski / 3 Comments

Looks like the new TrailBlazer won't be the only GM with wireless smartphone integration.

GM's new full-size SUVs - the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade - are gaining a substantially important infotainment feature for 2021, without making any sort of fuss about it.

GM-Trucks has discovered that, starting with the all-new 2021 versions of each model, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available, giving owners the ability to control smartphone apps through the big central touchscreen without having to run a USB cable to the console. That may seem like a minor tweak, but anyone who's ever lost multiple smartphone USB cables will surely see the value.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still relatively new to the automotive realm. Plenty of automakers still haven't implemented any sort of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in their systems, much less the wireless variety, and availability of the cable-free brand of these systems is still very limited.

Previously, the subcompact Chevrolet TrailBlazer was the first and only GM product confirmed to be getting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as part of an optional Technology Package. It's currently unknown whether the feature will be an optional extra in the full-size SUVs, as well, or included as standard equipment.

Coupled with GM's available wireless phone charging, this means that the owners of 2021 Tahoes, Suburbans, Yukons, and Escalades may never have to carry a USB cable in the car ever again, which is actually a pretty nice selling point.

GM completely redesigned its full-size SUVs for the 2021 model year, riding on the same truck platform as the new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, but with a new independent multilink rear suspension setup. That suspension design has allowed GM to lower the load floor and open up more space in the cargo and passenger areas.

The new models will go on sale later this year.