Should I hold out until I can fork out 12-15k to buy a TVs or pick up a high mileage 6cyl and build a ss? About how much would the swap cost? Looking to just go stock 5.3, 6.0, or 6.2 depending how much the swap will cost

 

Go with a TBSS. There are many subtle performance upgrades to the TBSS that would nickel and dime you to duplicate/exceed with a base TB (V8 or I6).

 

I couldnt agree more... unless you like the Saab Aero. Saab basically engineered the first TBSS. Chevy took all the subtle differences Saab released in 2005 and turned it into the SS in 2006. Things like the steering, rear suspension, ride height, etc. The Saab is supposed to be the 'premium' of the gmt360 platform. On par of better than the envoy Denali as far as interior, but more going on mechanically. You can also get the Saab with a 5.3 for short money.

I just tossed an iron block 6.0 into this exact car. I put in an FTI 3000 street brawler converter, and an LS6 cam simply to delete VVT since the wiring harness on this ride doesn't include that. The LS6 cam was used because its a daily driver... I needed all the manners in the world since I already have a toy. Don't get me started on how much better an actual cam woulda been... it pisses me off lol.
It does 0-60 in 4.9 and 0-100 in 12.8x. I expect it to bang out the 1/4 mile in about 13.3 seconds. Not a bad DD... or project for that matter.

The engine I put into it is a L96. Dropped right in. Only thing I had to do was delete VVT.