Football Saturdays in Madison bring a distinct energy, especially when the crowd gathers around the historic stadium. Preparing for a successful pregame gathering requires a vehicle that can handle heavy passenger loads, bulky gear, and unpredictable autumn weather. Selecting the right sport utility vehicle makes a significant difference when you are packing generators, slow cookers, and pop-up tents for a day of Wisconsin traditions. more Our team at Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison understands that local families and alumni need a vehicle that transitions seamlessly from the daily school run to parking lot celebrations. We are proud to serve our local community from our convenient location at 1345 Applegate Rd, Madison, WI 53713. If you want to view our lineup in person, you can easily get directions to our Madison showroom to explore the entire Chevrolet lineup. For those looking to showcase their team spirit, arriving in style is part of the game day experience. Beyond choosing a spacious vehicle, you can also shop GM apparel and accessories to find the perfect gear to match your vehicle and team colors. If you have questions about specific model availability or want to discuss features before driving over, feel free to give our sales department a quick call at (608) 271-2212. Table of Contents Is the Chevy Suburban Better Than the Tahoe for Cargo Space at Football Tailgates? Why the 2026 Chevy Suburban and Traverse Excel at Big Group Tailgating Powering the Pregame with Chevy Wi-Fi Signal Reach and Onboard Tech Rules and Guidelines for Tailgating with Your SUV Near the Stadium Quick Answers Before You Visit Our Madison Showroom Is the Chevy Suburban Better Than the Tahoe for Cargo Space at Football Tailgates? When comparing full-size options for game day, the decision often comes down to the Chevrolet Suburban versus the Chevrolet Tahoe. While both vehicles share robust truck-based platforms, a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, and a standard 5.3L V8 engine, their physical dimensions differ. The key distinction lies in the overall length, which directly impacts how much gear you can transport behind the third row of seats. The 2026 Chevrolet Suburban is a stretched version of the Tahoe, making it the ultimate choice for large groups. It offers a cavernous about 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. When you fold the third row down, that volume expands to about 94 cubic feet, and folding both rear rows open up a massive about 145 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity. This extra length means you can carry a full-sized grill, multiple coolers, and folding tables without forcing your passengers in the back to compromise on legroom. In comparison, the 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe provides about 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third row, about 72.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and about 123 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. While the Tahoe is slightly easier to maneuver through tight parking structures and parallel spaces, the Suburban is the clear victor if your primary goal is maximizing storage space for extensive tailgating setups. You can explore these spacious models by browsing our new Chevrolet inventory online. To keep your cargo area protected from spilled drinks, charcoal dust, or muddy boots, equipping your vehicle with the right gear is essential. We recommend upgrading to heavy-duty all-weather floor liners and cargo organizers. You can find these exact-fit items and more when you shop GM genuine parts through our dedicated parts department. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature High Country LT RS Z71 Engine 2.5L 2.5L 2.5L 2.5L Horsepower 328 hp 328 hp 328 hp 328 hp Torque 326 lb-ft 326 lb-ft 326 lb-ft 326 lb-ft Transmission 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic Drivetrain Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Feature High Country LT RS Z71 Seating 7 7 7 7 Cargo 22.9 cu ft 22.9 cu ft 22.9 cu ft 22.9 cu ft Curb weight 4,504 lbs 4,504 lbs 4,504 lbs 4,793 lbs Towing 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs Why the 2026 Chevy Suburban and Traverse Excel at Big Group Tailgating Are you planning to host a large gathering of friends and family near the stadium? If so, passenger versatility and towing capacity are just as important as rear cargo room. The 2026 Chevrolet Suburban excels here, offering a standard seating configuration for eight passengers, with optional layouts accommodating seven or nine people. Additionally, when properly equipped, the Suburban boasts a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, allowing you to easily pull a heavy-duty customized cooking trailer or a multi-grid smoker. For families who want three-row utility in a slightly smaller, highly efficient package, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is an exceptional alternative. The Traverse offers flexible seating for seven or eight passengers and provides about 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. When you fold the rear seats flat, it opens up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. Under the hood, the Traverse features a modern 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain allows the Traverse to deliver a solid towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is plenty of strength for standard utility trailers. Experienced game day hosts know that preparing for changing autumn weather is crucial. Before the cold Wisconsin winter arrives, ensuring your vehicle has maximum traction is a smart safety move. If you are shopping for a pre-owned model to fit your price range, you can check out our pre-owned vehicle inventory. To make sure your current or future SUV is ready for slippery grass parking lots, you can use our online tire finder tool to select a set of reliable all-season or winter-rated tires. Powering the Pregame with Chevy Wi-Fi Signal Reach and Onboard Tech Modern pregame celebrations rely heavily on technology, whether you are streaming early morning kickoff coverage, checking fantasy scores, or playing music. Chevrolet SUVs act as mobile entertainment hubs thanks to their advanced connectivity features. The built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capability is designed to keep your entire group connected, sending out a strong, reliable signal that reaches up to 50 feet away from the vehicle. This allows your guests to stay connected even while standing outside near the food table or under a canopy. In addition to strong wireless signals, these cabins are packed with convenient power sources. For example, the 2026 Chevrolet Suburban comes standard with two handy 120-volt household-style power outlets. These outlets are perfect for powering small television screens, slow cookers, or charging station docks without needing to bring along a noisy portable generator. Combined with multiple USB-C ports distributed across all three rows, no one in your group will have to worry about a dying phone battery before entering the stadium. Keeping these advanced electrical and infotainment systems running smoothly requires regular maintenance. A weak battery or outdated software can put a damper on your game day plans. Before the season begins, it is wise to have our certified technicians perform a multi-point inspection. You can easily schedule a service appointment online to have your battery, alternator, and electrical connections tested by our professional team. Rules and Guidelines for Tailgating with Your SUV Near the Stadium Arriving at the parking lot with a fully loaded Chevy SUV is only half the battle; you also need to follow local parking and safety regulations to ensure a smooth day. University-operated parking lots surrounding the stadium require valid, lot-specific parking permits, which often sell out well in advance of big matchups. Because space is limited, your SUV must fit entirely within the painted lines of a single designated parking space. This means large vehicles like the Suburban or Tahoe must be parked carefully to avoid encroaching on drive lanes or adjacent spaces. Safety is a top priority for university officials, especially when it comes to cooking equipment. Open flames must be kept a safe distance away from university buildings, parking structures, and overhead obstructions. If you are using a charcoal grill, you must dispose of the hot coals in the specially marked red metal bins located throughout the parking lots—never dump them on the pavement or grass. Additionally, personal generators are allowed in most lots, but they must be operated safely and cannot block pedestrian walkways. If you are thinking about upgrading your current vehicle to a larger, more capable tailgating machine before the first kickoff, we can help you transition smoothly. We make it simple to trade in your current car, truck, or crossover. You can get a quick, transparent valuation online to value your trade-in, which you can then apply directly toward the purchase of a new or pre-owned Chevrolet SUV. Quick Answers Before You Visit Our Madison Showroom Before you make the trip to our dealership, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make a confident decision. Many local shoppers like to do their research online so they know exactly what to expect. To help streamline your shopping experience, we have compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive from customers. © 2026 Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison. All rights reserved.
Maximising Highway Range in the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Blazer EV
Maintaining optimal efficiency on long stretches of interstate requires a strategic approach to speed and driving habits. When you are behind the wheel of a 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV or 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV, aerodynamic drag is the single largest force your vehicle must overcome. Because wind resistance increases exponentially as your speed rises, traveling at a steady speed of 60 to 65 mph is the most effective way to preserve your battery charge. Pushing your speed up to 70 or 75 mph will rapidly deplete your reserves, significantly reducing your real-world mileage compared to the official EPA estimates. more Using the built-in one-pedal driving mode and adjusting your regenerative braking to its highest setting helps capture energy during deceleration, sending power back into the battery pack. Smooth, gradual acceleration also prevents high-current draws that temporarily spike energy consumption. To help you experience these advanced efficiency systems firsthand, we invite you to buy new Chevrolet online or explore our current vehicle inventory from the comfort of your home. If you prefer an in-person walk-around, you can easily get directions to Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison at 1345 Applegate Rd, Madison, WI 53713. Our knowledgeable sales consultants are always ready to demonstrate how to monitor your real-world efficiency using the standard 17.7-inch diagonal advanced color LCD display. Before you visit, be sure to review our latest new Chevrolet inventory to find current availability on our entire electric lineup. For any immediate questions about vehicle availability or specifications, feel free to give our team a quick call at (608) 271-2212. Table of Contents How Wisconsin Winter Weather and Highway Speeds Impact Electric Range Comparing Blazer EV and Equinox EV Battery Sizes and Charging Speeds Selecting the Best Equinox EV Trim and Preparing for Cold-Weather Fast Charging Madison Home Charging Solutions, Utility Rebates, and Long-Term Battery Warranties Common Questions About Chevrolet EV Range and Ownership Drive Your New Chevrolet Electric SUV Home Today How Wisconsin Winter Weather and Highway Speeds Impact Electric Range How does freezing weather alter your highway driving plans? In the local climate, prolonged sub-freezing temperatures can cause a temporary range reduction of between 15% and 30% on the coldest days. This drop in efficiency occurs because cold air is physically denser, which increases aerodynamic drag on the highway, and because the vehicle must divert battery power to heat the cabin and maintain the battery's optimal operating temperature. To combat these seasonal challenges, preconditioning your vehicle while it is still plugged into your home charger is highly recommended. This process warms both the cabin and the battery pack using electricity from the grid, preserving the stored energy in your battery for the road ahead. Once you are on the highway, utilizing the heated seats and heated steering wheel instead of blasting the cabin's climate control blower will significantly reduce overall energy consumption. Keeping your vehicle in peak mechanical condition also plays a vital role in preserving winter range. Underinflated tires have higher rolling resistance, which forces the electric motors to work harder. You can find winter-ready components and replacement wiper blades through our parts department, ensuring your vehicle is fully prepared for seasonal road conditions. If you are shopping for value, we also carry high-quality electric models in our pre-owned inventory, with each vehicle undergoing a rigorous multi-point inspection by our factory-trained technicians. Comparing Blazer EV and Equinox EV Battery Sizes and Charging Speeds What are the core technical differences between these two electric sport utility vehicles? The primary distinction lies in their battery capacities and architecture. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV standardizes on an 85 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack across its entire lineup. In contrast, the larger 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV offers battery configurations up to 102 kWh on high-performance trims like the SS, while its mid-tier trims utilize the 85 kWh pack. These battery differences directly translate to varying charging speeds when you pull up to a public DC fast charger. The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV is capable of accepting peak charging rates up to 190 kW on select trims, allowing it to replenish range more quickly during long highway road trips. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV features a peak DC fast-charging rate of 150 kW, which is still highly efficient and can add approximately 70 miles of range in about 10 minutes under optimal conditions. 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD: EPA-estimated range of 319 miles with 220 hp 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV AWD: EPA-estimated range of 307 miles with 300 hp 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV FWD/RWD: EPA-estimated range of up to 312 miles 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV AWD: EPA-estimated range of 283 miles with 300 hp To keep your electric vehicle running safely and efficiently, we recommend that you schedule a service appointment for routine maintenance, such as tire rotations and cabin air filter replacements. Proper tire tread and alignment are critical for maintaining low rolling resistance, and you can easily find the perfect set of low-resistance tires using our online tire finder tool. Selecting the Best Equinox EV Trim and Preparing for Cold-Weather Fast Charging When choosing the right trim level for cold-weather highway driving, we recommend stepping up to the LT 2 trim. While the entry-level LT 1 is well-equipped, the LT 2 adds essential winter comfort features like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard equipment. These features allow you to stay warm while keeping the cabin climate control at a lower, more efficient temperature setting. Additionally, selecting the front-wheel-drive configuration provides the maximum EPA-estimated range of 319 miles, while also offering excellent traction on snow and slush due to the vehicle's front-weighted balance. Preparing your vehicle for public DC fast charging on a cold day requires utilizing the onboard navigation system. When you use the built-in Google Maps system to route directly to a fast-charging station, the vehicle will automatically initiate battery preconditioning. This system warms the battery chemistry to the perfect temperature while you are en route, ensuring that the battery can immediately accept the maximum charging rate of 150 kW for the Equinox EV or up to 190 kW for the Blazer EV as soon as you plug in. If you are planning to upgrade to an electric vehicle, our team is ready to assist you throughout the entire transition. You can easily value your trade-in online to receive a highly competitive offer for your current vehicle, which can be applied directly toward your new purchase. Madison Home Charging Solutions, Utility Rebates, and Long-Term Battery Warranties For most electric vehicle owners, home charging represents the most convenient and cost-effective way to start each day with a full charge. Installing a Level 2 home charging station allows you to charge your vehicle overnight using a 240V outlet, taking approximately 9.5 hours to fully charge an empty Equinox EV battery. Local utility providers, including Madison Gas and Electric, frequently offer specialized programs, off-peak charging discounts, and rebates for installing smart home chargers, helping to minimize your initial setup costs. When you purchase a new Chevrolet electric vehicle, you also receive exceptional long-term peace of mind. Both the Equinox EV and Blazer EV are backed by a comprehensive 8-year/100,000-mile electric component warranty that covers the high-voltage battery pack against defects and excessive degradation. This manufacturer-backed protection ensures that your investment is secure for years to come. While you are customizing your new vehicle, you can also browse our online portal to shop GM apparel and accessories. From all-weather floor liners designed to protect your cabin from winter road salt to custom cargo organizers, we have everything you need to personalize your ride. Common Questions About Chevrolet EV Range and Ownership Our finance department is dedicated to providing transparent pricing and straightforward options to help you drive home in the perfect vehicle. When you are ready to take the next step, you can save time at the dealership by choosing to get pre-approved online through our secure credit application. Q: Is the electric vehicle battery warranty transferable to a second owner? Yes, the Chevrolet electric vehicle battery warranty is fully transferable to subsequent owners. The remaining balance of the 8-year/100,000-mile coverage automatically transfers to the new owner at no additional cost, which helps preserve the vehicle's long-term resale value. Q: Does the Blazer EV or the Equinox EV charge faster at public DC fast chargers? The Blazer EV offers faster peak charging speeds, supporting up to 190 kW on select trims equipped with the larger battery pack. The Equinox EV features a peak charging rate of 150 kW, which can still add approximately 70 miles of range in 10 minutes under optimal conditions. Q: What is the optimum highway speed to maximize range in a Chevy Equinox EV? The optimum highway speed to maximize your driving range is between 60 and 65 mph. Driving at speeds above 70 mph significantly increases aerodynamic drag, which causes the battery to deplete at a much faster rate. Q: How does cabin preconditioning help preserve the battery range of the Equinox EV? Preconditioning warms the cabin and the battery pack while the vehicle is still plugged into your home charger. This utilizes electricity from the grid rather than drawing from the vehicle's battery, preserving valuable energy for your highway drive. Q: What should I do if I experience a flat tire or battery depletion on the highway? Every new Chevrolet EV comes with complimentary roadside assistance coverage for 5 years or 60,000 miles. If you experience an emergency, you can contact Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: 1-800-243-8872 for factory-backed towing to the nearest authorized Chevrolet service center. Drive Your New Chevrolet Electric SUV Home Today Making the switch to an electric vehicle is a smooth and rewarding experience when you partner with a team that prioritizes your family's needs. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV and 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV offer the perfect combination of advanced safety technology, spacious cabins, and highly practical real-world driving range. We invite you to browse our new Chevrolet inventory online to find the exact color, trim, and drivetrain configuration that fits your daily commute and weekend adventures. When you are ready to experience these electric SUVs firsthand, stop by our showroom at 1345 Applegate Rd, Madison, WI 53713, or get directions to Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison to plan your route. You can also reach out to our friendly staff by calling (608) 271-2212 to schedule a test drive today. © 2026 Bergstrom Chevrolet of Madison. All rights reserved.