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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  Nice car but Autoride is hazardous - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Eric Weston - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I wish I had read the 2 other reviews here before I ordered my Tahoe. They warned about the Autoride feature. At low speeds the vehicle is fine. At highway speeds it is out and out dangerous. You cannot control this thing at 65mph or above. It wiggles and runs all over the road and if your attention wanders for a second you might find yourself under a truck or wrapped around a bridge support. The dealer tells me this is normal for the autoride and there have been numerous complaints about stability. I agree. This truck is dangerous.

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  so far, so good - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By broughers - January 3 - 10:00 am

  2002 Tahoe LT with 14,000 miles. Ive taken numerous long trips with large amts of cargo. So far, not a single problem. the vehicle has not had to return to the dealer for any reason. Initial build quality and delivery condition was above reproach. Comfort for driver and passengers is impressive. Hwy milage @ 75-80 mph is 17.5 mpg. Could use a little bigger fuel tank for those fishing trips out away from gas stations.

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  2007 Tahoe - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Wendy - December 26 - 1:56 am

  I drove the Tahoe from GA to NC and it was a very comfortable trip. The gas mileage was surprising to me at 20 mpg on the highway. The steering wheel controls are very easy to use.

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  Head turner Tahoe - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By cdm - December 23 - 7:10 am

  I love the 2007 Tahoe! The exterior is a head turner, got lots of compliment from people at the parking lots. The interior is much better than the previous Tahoes, refined and sophisticated. The brakes are excellent, plus its a lot quieter inside than the old ones. I am so pleased with my new purchase.

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  Best full size SUV on the market - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Johnc - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I have 52K on this vehicle and use it on/off road, for hauling people, towing a boat and camper, and back and forth to work. This truck has been pretty much bullet proof. It only needed one small warranty repair (drivers side window regulator). I looked at all of the competitors and the Tahoe just felt better and handled better. My actual experience leaves nothing to be desired from this truck except for a better 3rd row seat configuration.

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  Now this is a family SUV - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By patty - December 10 - 5:13 am

  We traded in an 04 Tahoe, So far the gas mileage seems to be about 3 miles per gal better hwy/city combined. Have not taken it on a long trip, yet the engine switchs from 4 - 8 cylinders with no effort. The ride is like a car, handling and parking very easy to manuver. The radio with the fav pages makes it easy to switch to your favorite stations. Absolutely love the new Tahoe! GM did a great job!

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  Love the Tahoe - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Charlie - November 24 - 8:10 am

  I have only had my truck a short time, but is great. I rate it high on fuel economy due to the drop from 8 to 4 cylinders when at cruising speed. This helps on trips and when driving at low speeds. The interior is oustanding. I left an 06 EB Explorer to get this truck and am loving every moment. From the design to the handling, the Tahoe has it all.

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  Tahoe Reviewed - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By petersenolson - November 23 - 2:00 am

  Some helpful questions to ask when purchasing a Chevy Tahoe: 1. Why do you want a SUV? 4-wheel drive is an advantage in the winter. 2. Tahoe is heavy and has poor gas mileage. Are you driving long distances. I travel 250 miles on the weekends and the gas consumption is higher. 3. Do you have a big family? I have five in my family and Tahoe is roomer than most.

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  I love this truck! - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By dmaxwellh - November 16 - 10:00 am

  It would be embarassing for me to list how many different automobiles I have owned over the last five years! I love this truck. The interior comfort is wonderful, XM radio coupled with the Bose is fantastic! Moveable pedals. . . and the Z71 exterior look is quite simply cool. I have owned four other Chevy trucks since 94 and been very pleased with each and every one. My new Tahoe is off to a great start!

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  Horrible build quality - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Johnny Bradabadowski - October 25 - 11:39 pm

  I have been driving Tahoes or Suburbans since the mid 90s and always found them to be very comfortable and reliable with decent build quality, BUT this 2007 Tahoe LTZ is the exception to the rule. My wife and I hate this truck. There is a constant problem with something. Usually with the build quality. Following is a list of problems that we have encountered with an expensive vehicle that has less than 100k. The fake chrome is peeling off of the door handles, power fold in mirrors stopped working and now passenger side outside mirror is loose and will not stay set for proper view, button to release rear window latch keeps falling out, dash is cracked in 4 places and rattles ( we park it inside the garage ), navigation cannot even find my house, the + and - paint on the dial for the heat / ac fan speed has completely come off, Black paint on steering wheel near controls is coming off, DVD player only plays when it wants to, power rear hatch pops and jerks when raising, tire air pressure sensors will not stay fixed and this causes a warning light to stay on ( have had them replaced twice at almost 100.00 per wheel in the last 10,000 miles ), remote start stopped working, and last but not least the engine is an oil burner. This Tahoe seems to be falling apart! Luckily we did not trade in our 2003 Tahoe with 273,000 miles that has never had ANY issues at all ( absolutely zero ). My wife drives the 03 almost always because its just a much better vehicle than this 07. Also I have a 2003 Avalanche with 158,000 miles that is a great truck. What happened?? Why did GM ruin these vehicles after 2006?? Im looking to sell or trade this Tahoe. It makes me sick that I spent so much money for this truck thinking I would have a vehicle that would last us for years and many miles and now we will probably take a huge financial loss just to get rid of it. Im probably going with a Nissan Armada or Toyota Sequoia, or maybe a Ford Expedition. Since I try to pay cash for my vehicles, I certainly hope that I make a wiser choice in the future. This Tahoe is horrible! Edmunds sent me an email and wanted an update so here it is. Since the original review the power lift-gate stopped working, interior lights would not work when opening the passenger side doors, and the brake lights would work part time only. Bulbs and sockets are O.K. The police pulled us over because of this issue. It has also developed a loud roaring sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. I traded this piece of junk in for a Ford Expedition Limited and boy am I glad I did. We love the Expedition and it has power flat folding 3rd row seats. Goodbye Chevy and hello Ford.