Overview & Reviews

Few SUVs since the mid-1990s have been as popular as the Chevrolet Tahoe, and it's not hard to see why. With room for up to nine passengers, V8 power and plenty of available amenities, the Tahoe has traditionally been a go-to choice for large American families.

The Chevy Tahoe faced little competition when it debuted, popularizing the full-size SUV by being a somewhat smaller and more maneuverable version of the giant Chevy Suburban that established the segment. Today, however, there are more choices than ever. In particular, large crossovers are more efficient, easier to drive and more versatile inside. The Tahoe remains competitive, though, especially among those who need the added capability of towing.

Current Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a traditional full-size SUV built on a truck platform. It's been fully redesigned for 2015. Major updates for this fourth-generation model include added safety and technology features, improved fuel economy and a fold-flat third-row seat. Depending on the configuration, it will accommodate anywhere from six to nine passengers and tow up to 8,600 pounds.

Three trim levels (LS, LT and LTZ) are available. The LS is well equipped with tri-zone climate control, full power accessories, Bluetooth connectivity, a color display with rearview camera and three rows of seats, the rearmost folding into the floor. Going with the LT or LTZ fills out the standard equipment list with more luxury-oriented items. Feature highlights, depending on trim, include adaptive magnetic shock absorbers, a power liftgate, power-adjustable pedals, power-actuated second- and third-row seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats and an integrated brake controller.

Standard safety equipment includes stability control, front side as well as an innovative front center (between seats) airbag and three-row curtain airbags. Available safety technology includes adaptive cruise control with forward collision alert, lane-departure and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and a vibrating safety-alert seat. Options include a navigation system and a rear entertainment system on most models.

Ample power comes by way of a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8, matched to a modern and efficient six-speed automatic transmission. There is a choice between two- and four-wheel drive, with the latter available with either a traditional two-speed transfer case or a single-speed unit without low-range gearing (not available with Max Trailering package).

In reviews, our editors found the Chevy Tahoe to be a capable and comfortable performer with a welcoming and, for its class, upscale interior. The ride quality is comfortable and handling surprisingly composed, but you'll find the ride comfort deteriorates with either of the available 20- or 22-inch wheels, even with the adaptive suspension. Also, larger crossovers tend to be more maneuverable and responsive. The cabin's redesign and modern connectivity are welcome, as the Tahoe is now competitive with its rivals. Another significant change is the integrated fold-flat third-row seat, the downside of which is an elevated floor into the cargo area.

In total, if you're mostly looking to carry a bunch of people, the Tahoe isn't the best choice. However, if you also need to tow or venture off-road with a real four-wheel-drive system, the burly Tahoe continues to make a lot of sense in an anachronistic category that continues to dwindle.

Used Chevrolet Tahoe Models
The third generation of the Chevy Tahoe spanned the 2007-'14 model years. Compared to earlier Tahoes, it represented a marked improvement in terms of drivability and interior design, as well as materials and build quality.

Initially for this Tahoe, Chevy offered one of two V8s: a 4.8-liter (295 hp) or a 5.3-liter (320 hp). Both engines came with a four-speed automatic transmission, but the 4.8-liter V8 was paired with rear-wheel drive only. For a single year in 2009, a 6.2-liter V8 with 395 hp was available. A six-speed automatic was introduced that year and was fitted to both the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8s. After that, the Tahoe came exclusively with the 5.3-liter engine and six-speed auto and either RWD or traditional 4WD with low-range gearing.

Trim levels for this 2007-'14 generation were LS, LT and LTZ. Feature content varied somewhat through the years, but typically the LS came standard with 17-inch wheels, cruise control, stability control, full power accessories, dual-zone climate control and a six-speaker sound system. For a time, the LT model was split into three sub-levels: LT1, LT2 and LT3 with progressively more convenience or luxury items such as heated leather seats, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle start, tri-zone automatic climate control and rear park assist. The LTZ remained the most well-appointed and typically came standard with 20-inch wheels, an adaptive suspension, navigation, ventilated front seats and a premium sound system. Sporadically, Chevrolet also offered an Off-Road package.

This generation also experienced a steady infusion of standard or optional technology: we recommend going with a 2009 or newer model for equipment like Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port (2010) or hard drive-based navigation. Other key changes for this generation involved safety feature content. For the 2007 model, side curtain airbags were optional on some trims, while front side airbags were unavailable prior to 2010. Another noteworthy change involved the 50/50-split third-row seat, which was optional for 2007 and '08.

Overall, we found this versatile and ever-improving generation of Chevrolet Tahoe to be desirable for a full-size V8-powered SUV. Car-based crossover SUVs became much more popular during this time, and they're worth consideration given the advantages in fuel economy, handling and ride quality. Yet the Tahoe remained a capable and comfortable, if slightly large, daily driver throughout. Our one main criticism involved the Tahoe's third-row seats. At more than 50 pounds each, they were heavy and cumbersome to remove. And when folded inside the truck, they did not offer a flat cargo floor. The third-row seats were also a favorite of smash-and-grab thieves.

The previous-generation Chevrolet Tahoe was built for the 2000-'06 model years. Through most of this period, our editors considered the Tahoe to be one of the best full-size SUVs available. This second-gen Tahoe was a little bit smaller than the third, but it still offered room for up to nine passengers. Two V8 engines were available -- either a 285-hp 4.8-liter or a 295-hp 5.3-liter -- as were 2WD or 4WD. For most of its history, the model came in LS, Z71 or LT trims. The Z71 was designed for improved off-road performance.

Generally, our editors were impressed with the power from the V8 engines and the truck's maneuverability, but put off by cheap interior materials and spotty build quality. Shoppers placing a priority on safety will want to look for a Tahoe with the optional stability control system; Chevrolet started offering it in the 2003 model year on trucks with the larger V8.

Previous to this was the first-generation Chevrolet Tahoe offered from 1995-'99. It could carry a maximum of six passengers, large amounts of cargo and best of all would fit in most garages. This was the only generation that offered both two-door and four-door models. The two-door versions were also available with a 180-hp turbodiesel V8 instead of the 255-hp, 5.7-liter V8.

User Reviews:

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  Tahoe LT - 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By whocares - September 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had pretty good luck with the vehicle overall. I put on 30,000 miles a year and have had a little problem with the transmission not wanting to catch. I took the vehicle back to the dealership before my warranty expired due to a back window not operating. Bullentin replaced both motors. Loud valve tapping noise in the morning. I also feel thatn the breaks dont work good. I can cause the wheels to squeal when trying to brake quickly. A little rattle in the moon roof and doors.

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  Great SUV/Great Value - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By bwright - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Bought a 2004 Tahoe about 2 weeks ago and am very happy with the purchase. The truck is very roomy and rides like a car.

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  Z71 Tahoe - Close to Perfect - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By JustW - September 17 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a white 2003 Z71 Tahoe October 2002. This vehicle is incredible looking and great to drive. Chevy has put so much cool stuff in this vehicle that it would take 10 pages to describe everything. The options I added were a sunroof and liftgate rear hatch, everthing else is standard. The drawback of having so much standard equipment is the price. After I added the sunroof and rear lift gate, the sticker price was over $43,500.00. A drawback to the vehicle, besides price, is the fuel consumption (avg. 13.5 MPG). Overall I would say the Z71 is close to perfect if you want something that is a lot of fun to drive and turns heads everywhere you go.

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  Not too bad - 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By earthwindandfire - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought this 2WD 4DR new, and still have it as of Sep, 2002. Take good care of it. Just replaced water and gas pump (inside the tank) plus oil and miscellaneous to the tune of $1400 at 66,000 miles. Ouch. Other than that, though, its not too bad. No other major repairs. Fits everything, comfortable seats, lots of legroom for tall drivers (Im 64"), pretty nice stereo. Driver seat leather does wear out, and gets shiny. Not too shabby a vehicle overall. Been driving a Lexes LX470 and a Toyota Land Cruiser, both of which make the Tahoe look pretty bad, I have to say.

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  Great Truck - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By RVAS - September 16 - 2:00 am

  The truck has always been good to me and has never given me any problems. Actually you can get used to the brakes and its not totally unsafe. Quesiton if you really need the room. I bought it thinking that I will use it, but it mostly sat in my garage as a second vehicle. So, if you really are going to use its towing and interior size, it would be worth it.

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  NOTHING CLOSE - 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By STEVE12175 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  THE BEST VEHICLE IVE EVER OWNED. WAS GOING TO BUY A DURANGO. I WAS HAPPY WITH THE TEST DRIVE UNTIL I DROVE A TAHOE. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! RIDES WONDERFULLY. WAS WORTH THE EXTRA MONEY. FOR THIS MUCH POWER THE GAS MILEAGE IS EXCELLENT. 100 DEGREE HEAT IS NO PROBLEM FOR THE AIRCONDITIONING SYSTEM. EVEN FOR THIRD ROW. PASSENGERS HAVE PLENTY OF ROOM ON LONG DRIVES. 5.3L CAN PULL ONTO HIGHWAY LIKE A ROCKET.

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  I love it! - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Sharon - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my new truck! I am 5 ft tall and I have no problem driving this vechicle. It could be a little better on gas and exterior styling but overall I love it.

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  THE SUV to Own! - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By MCGOODY - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I traded my 96 LT 4WD Tahoe for a 2002 LT 4WD. What a difference! I loved my old one, but the new generation leaves the old one way behind. Better pep on the highway, greater comfort (the old one was very comfortable), attractive interior design, better amenities inside, quiet, solid body design and structure....get my point, yet? This is an awesome truck. Once you buy one, you wont go back. My wife will only drive foreign cars, but...she seeks to make an exception in this case. She constantly tries to switch with me. The 2002 Tahoe will turn your head, and change your mind.

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  THE ONLY BOWTIE YOULL EVER GET ME INTO - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Staten Island George - September 4 - 2:00 am

  Every where I go people look at my Tahoe. I went with the indigo blue, with tan interior, dark tinted glass all the way around, clear tail lights, and bumper guard It looks great!!

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  The BIG one. - 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By housebuilder - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my tahoe at auction today. It is a big nice truck. I just sold an s-10 and would never go into a smaller truck again.