LoJack, a company that’s focused on “vehicle theft recovery,” has been doing its part to dissuade thieves. The company’s new technology played a significant role in recovering more than $112 million in stolen vehicles last year.
“Each time a vehicle is stolen, it impacts the owner far beyond the loss of property,” said Pat Clancy, the Vice President of Law Enforcement for LoJack. “While theft tactics are advancing, law enforcement officials and dealerships who partner with LoJack are dedicated to recovering vehicles in a timely fashion and minimizing the impact on owners.”
Their recent 2016 report also identified the vehicles that were among the most popular targets for thieves. Unsurprisingly, these criminals have generally targeted more expensive rides, with $30,000-plus cars currently the most popular grouping. The top “pricey” vehicles that thieves target include the Land Rover Range Rover, the Ford F-Series, BMW X-Series, Chevy Camaro, and Audi Q-Series.
Of course, the average price of LoJack’s recovered vehicles was just over $10,000, so thieves aren’t solely targeting these pricey cars. Among the most popular “affordable” cars for thieves was the Chevy Tahoe.
While the report generally focused on 2015 model vehicles, there’s no denying that the 2016 Chevy Tahoe will be a popular target once again this year. Before we dive into the specific attributes that make the Tahoe so attractive to thieves, let’s see what the brand has done to scare off these criminals…
Chevy’s Security Technology
Thanks to OnStar’s RemoteLink application, drivers can monitor their Tahoe even when they’re in the general vicinity of their SUV. Several of the RemoteLink’s features exist for the sake of the driver’s convenience. Instead of rushing outside to warm up their vehicle, drivers can remotely start the SUV from the comfort of their own homes. The application also allows drivers to lock/unlock their doors.
The best function (at least when it comes to thieves) is the ability to access the Tahoe’s horn and lights. If there’s anything that will detract someone from trying to take your SUV, it will definitely be bright lights and loud noises.
While the push-button engine allows for maximum convenience, it also plays a role in the vehicle’s security. The Tahoe could automatically operate with a simple push of the button, but that also requires the driver to have the accompanying key fob. This prevents anyone from hot-wiring a vehicle, as the key fob is necessary for operation.
With 94.7-cubic-feet of interior room, you’ll presumably be using your new SUV to store some valuable cargo. While thieves may be motivated by a valuable electronic being left out in the open, the Tahoe allows owners to hide their most precious cargo. The center console is large enough to hide any gadgets, including a laptop computer. The touch-screen hides a lockable storage space, where you can secure your wallet or cell phone.
The brand is clearly doing its part in boosting security features in their vehicles, and several of the Tahoe’s current features should help dissuade thieves from breaking into your ride. However, why are these snoops specifically targeting the SUV? Let’s find out…
Target 1: Stylish Exterior
The SUV segment is starting to get flooded by stylish and attractive vehicles, and the Chevy Tahoe is certainly included in that grouping.
The vehicle’s muscular exterior is accentuated by its sudden curves and large, intimidating grille. The athletic stance only helps confirm all that the vehicle has to offer, performance-wise, and the incredible height provides a vantage point that few SUVs can match. Plus, if the vehicle is equipped with the breath-taking 22-inch wheels, it’s all but a guarantee that some sketchy individuals will be admiring your ride.
Head to the interior, and you’ll find an assortment of high-end materials and technologies. The soft-touch upholstery options allow passengers to sit in optimal comfort, and the high-class trims provide an air of luxury to the SUV.
Perhaps the best attribute of the interior (although it may not necessarily be valued by thieves) is the quiet and peaceful driving experience. Thanks to the laminated windshield and triple-sealed inlaid doors, drivers won’t be bothered by that loud, howling wind or that rumbling engine.
Target 2: Impressive Engine
Most drivers are enamored by a powerful, efficient engine, and will predictably fall in love with the Tahoe’s mechanics. The 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine pumps out an incredible 355 horsepower and 383 pounds-feet of torque. However, it’s the unit’s other capabilities that truly puts it on a tier of its own.
The engine delivers an estimated 23 highway mile per gallon efficiency. This can be attributed to a number of included technologies, like Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing, and Active Fuel Management. As a result, drivers can appreciate the best highway fuel economy in the full-size SUV class.
Target 3: Modern Technology
If a thief takes one glance at your cabin, they’ll immediately be swayed by the abundance of technology. The real star of the Tahoe is the Chevy MyLink infotainment system, which allows drivers to access a number of helpful applications via the eight-inch-diagonal touchscreen. The Tahoe even offers an eight-inch-diagonal Reconfigurable Cluster with Driver Information Center and Head-Up Display, meaning drivers can utilize essential information with absolute ease.
Other technologies include a wireless charging station, which is accompanied by six USB ports and an 110-volt three-prong outlet.
Now, if you own a Chevy Tahoe or were planning on pursuing the SUV, you shouldn’t fret. Just because you own the nameplate, it doesn’t mean that thieves are going to specifically target your new ride. Many of these stolen vehicles are associated with specific geographic areas, as cars are predictably at more of a risk in urban neighborhoods with higher crime rates.
Luckily, if you ever do find yourself parking in a sketchy part of town, the brand has done everything in their power to secure your SUV. The RemoteLink application will allow you to remotely monitor your ride, while the push-button engine will prevent a thief from operating your vehicle without the necessary key fob. Plus, with a number of places to hide your valuable cargo, no thief is going to be persuaded by a pricey gadget that may be sitting out in the open.
Of course, as silly as it may sound, we can’t blame these thieves from targeting the 2016 Chevy Tahoe…
