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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  A Tahoe in Colorado - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Gretchen Bunnell - April 1 - 9:53 am

  We bought this vehicle with the belief that it would be a solid vehicle that would meet the rigors of driving in the Colorado high country. It has far surpassed our expectations -- in comfort, in gas mileage (18.5 MPH during mountain driving), and in compelling add-ons. The only negative is the non-flat 3rd seat area.

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  BLAH! - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Tahoe is bad - March 18 - 10:00 am

  We bought a brand new white chevy z71. It listed for 47,992 with the options we put in it. It is one of the most horrible cars, seriously. You feel like your driving a 10,000.00 car from the inside. EVERYTHING on the dash and center console is plastic, and to top it all off there is horendiously cheap looking vinyl on the backs of the seat. It cruises well on the highway at aroud 70 but taking turns at 30 off exits is scary. Lately i have been hearing a esterior wistle and i dont know what it is...but i cant wait for a month to replace it with the new range rover.

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  2002 LT autoride LEMON - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Ann - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Defect in the steering column in the 2002 LT Autoride Tahoe. 33k miles ,3rd steering column replaced in 18 mths. Ist one replaced less than 3k miles. Sunroof replaced 2x because it comes off the track. Ceiling rattles and continually loosens up and has to be tightened. Window motors (front) burned out at 3800 miles. The running board came off at about 2k miles. The back door comes out of alignment. Electrical shortage. My neighbor has the same electrical shortage in his 2002 Suburban. I am getting into a foreign vehicle VERY SOON. This was my first and LAST american made vehicle.

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  Smooth car - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By John Leger - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Its a fantastic vehicle!...I wouldnt change a thing about it; good looking really comfortable, great performance and handling, good gas mileage, and fun to drive!

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  Gives new meaning to "like a rock" - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By calee - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I had a 2002 Z71 Tahoe and last Saturday was involved in an accident where the other driver ran a red light and hit me in the right rear wheel area. The Tahoe skidded to the left sideways and when it hit the curb it rolled over. I walked away without a single scratch. The insurance people totaled my car. I turned right around and purchased a 2004 Z71. This one is identical to the 2002 except more bells and whistles on the interior and a much improved sound system. But there is a big difference in the ride and the quietness of this vehicle from the 2002. I loved my 2002 but the 2004 I can tell is quickly winning me over! Plus the Tahoe saved my life!

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  2003 Tahoe - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Bryan32 - February 9 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Tahoe and each one just keeps getting better.

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  Tahoe Review - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Brett - February 4 - 12:33 pm

  I like everything except the rattle in the headliner. Looks, smooth ride, and comfort are all a plus. Fuel is 17 mpg average.

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  Tahoe is Tops for Quality and Value - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By aussiestx - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Delivers on the promise of great quality and value. Easy to drive for a large car (my wife loves it). Outstanding build quality. Very reliable. A good workhorse for our daily and weekend needs. Plenty of room for passengers and seats fold for extra room when touring or loading with materials. Intuitive controls for driver.

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  Bermuda Blue 4X4 - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 4X4 - January 31 - 7:46 pm

  I love this Bermuda Blue Tahoe. I took it on a 400 mile road trip and it drove like a luxury car. On the return trip I averaged 20 mpg staying under 65 mph. I have no complaints and only praise for GM. This is a fantastic, well-designed, go anywhere vehicle. Its a pleasure to drive.

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  The only SUV I would buy - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By fiyaboi - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I am in the automotive industry and I would recommend the Tahoe over any other SUV. The look, room, comfort, safety, handling, reliability and many features out match those so-called wannabe SUVs.