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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  08 Tahoe LT - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Bryce Holloway - October 8 - 7:18 pm

  Starting with the cons, the front end clearance is similar to a car, I recommend a leveling kit, the locks are garbage. However it is a very smooth ride even with the 20" wheels. The fuel economy has not gotten worse or improved, still sitting at 15mpg city/hey combined. Towing is acceptable, strong power while towing and transmission stays cool during long hill pulls. I recently camped in the back of it for a weekend for a race event and was impressed with the cargo room (me being 6 tall) I slept comfortably. My only recommendation is to life the front end and beef up the brakes if youll be towing quite a bit. Also, expect to replace faulty locks. Overall, Im impressed with this purchase.

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  200K miles and going strong - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By s.amburgey@sbcglobal.net - October 4 - 4:01 pm

  I bought a 2004 Z71 Tahoe from the original owner in 2009. After owning the last 6 years, I can say it is the best, most comfortable vehicle I have ever owned. It has 199k miles on it and has only had a few minor issues (1) water pump went out around 140k miles, replaced, (2) began using coolant at a slow rate but no leaks. Mechanic said it was seeping into a cylinder and being burned, recommend I use Alumiseal. I used and it fixed the problem, (3) recently had the "Service Airbag" light come on. I found out the most common problem is corrosion on the front impact sensors. Found a website that explained how to replace them, so I did. Solved the problem.

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  worst truck and no support from GM - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By rafi - September 30 - 3:48 am

  there are not enough space in back,try to get the jack out when you have flat tire most of the technology on this truck wont work, the dealer and GM does not support the customer to fix the problem ,I have an LTZ model and I have so many problems with it I ask everyone to think good before buying this truck, some of the problem I have this 2015 Tahoe are,automatic lift gate sticks open sometimes and wont close with I push the close push button,some times the door steps get stuck and open pull out when I open the door,one day I was driving and notice that I lost the lights on bottom dash board where the climate control are I had to stop turn the truck off and restart it ,my driver seat keep breaking the dealer fix it ones and the problem came back again,and the last thing on it so far was when I push the start /stop button to turn the truck off the truck did not shut off I had to push the button few times til the engage shut off,I will keep update on this page on any new problems I will have on my truck to make everyone aware of this truck and let them think twice before buying since GM does not care about the customer.

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  This was the best car Ive owned! - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Lindsey G. - September 16 - 7:59 am

  Ill miss my Tahoe. My mom and dad bought it with about 45k miles on it and gave it to me when it got to about 190k. I drove it for about 3 years until it got to 265k! I had to replace some things but at over 200k miles I felt like that was normal. Then, I got a 2009 Buick Enclave with 28k miles on it and have had to do more work to it than I ever thought about doing to the Tahoe! Great car to own.

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  Not Very Reliable - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By britt123 - September 15 - 1:07 pm

  Although my Tahoe LTZ has never left me on the side of the road, Ive had my share of expensive problems with it. I have had to replace the lifters because one of them was stuck. Chevy dealership told me theyd cut me a "deal" and repair it for $2500. I took it to a trusted shop in town and spent $1800 on parts and labor. On our last visit to the dealership, we were told our front differential would need to be replaced and this would cost around $2500 as well. The mechanic even suggested we think about trading our Tahoe in...real reassuring right? I have Lexus GS400 that is almost 10 years older than this truck and it still runs like a champ and Ive only had a few minor repairs here or there. The interior of the truck is nice. My toddler enjoys the DVD player. The 3rd row seating is a little cramped and the storage behind the 3rd row seat is almost nonexistent. The dash cracks. The door handles peel. These are little things I have learned to deal with. I love the look of the Tahoe but I hate that were running in to so many problems and we havent even reached 200k miles yet.

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  Town or Country - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Steve Fuller - September 8 - 8:50 pm

  We love our new Tahoe 4x4 LTZ! Weve had it for 3 months and taken it on long trips and towed our 7,000 lb boat 6 hours to the beach and back. It truly excels at every task. My wife calls it the perfect truck for town and country. We love the 3rd row folding seats, the entertainment system, the towing and braking capabilities, comfort, and look of the Tahoe. Its just been a great vehicle for us and we wanted to share our opinion. Although I read lots of reviews, Ive never written one before. I was happy to take a few moments to tell you why we love our truck and recommend it to you if youre considering it versus any other large SUV.

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  My 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Rocks!!!! - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Sheila Jackson - September 3 - 12:04 am

  As a woman, I find my 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe to be easy to handle, extremely comfortable, great looking and the best vehicle purchase I have made in 25 years. My new 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Rocks!!!!!!

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  233K Miles and Still Running Like a Champ! - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By DJwazlo - August 14 - 7:42 am

  I purchased our 04 Chevy Tahoe new from the Chevy dealer in 2004 as our daily driver family car and let me tell you, it gets driven every day. It is the base model with cloth interior. Sticker price at the time was $38K. It is now 2015 and we have put over 233,000 miles on this same vehicle and it is still running like a champ with no mechanical issues what so ever. Praise GOD! The only issues we have had are the instrument cluster gauge went out at about 150K miles, which is typical with GM vehicles, and the A/C blower was replaced at around 180K miles. That is it. We have not had any engine or transmission problems of any kind. And to be quite honest we have never had the transmission service done ever on the vehicle like the dealer recommends, just routine oil changes about every 5K - 7K miles, sometimes we have even gone as far as 10K - 12K miles before the next oil change. Just check the fluid levels , (oil, Transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid) from time to time and that is it. Needless to say I will be getting another Chevy Tahoe when the time comes, my goal is to get 500K miles out of this wonderful 04 Tahoe before that day comes. :)

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  Ive Ditched German Engineering for USA! - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Williamsburg Dave - August 12 - 3:26 pm

  After owning 6 Mercedes (and 1 Volvo, 1 Toyota, and 1 BMW,) Ive turned to the good old USA. My last car was a 2009 MB ML 320 Bluetec, and was nothing but serious, expensive trouble. And the main reason I started looking at the American made vehicles was because I just got sick and tired of the constant insane maintenance costs. So my expectations werent super high when I walked into the Chevy dealer. But I was instantly surprised when I got into the new 2015 Tahoe. Now that I have 32K miles on the odometer (I drive a LOT!), I have to say that I love it even more. After all of the supposed "luxury" cars Ive owned over the years, this Tahoe seems to be the best built, most comfortable, and nicest riding car/truck. The ergonomics are excellent. Great stereo, GPS, Rear camera, etc. I do mostly highway driving, and Ive been getting 24-25mpg on the highway, with a high of 26.5mpg. Around town i get 21-22mpg. Handling is spot on, and always feel well controlled and safe. I have towed with it, and actually forgot that the loaded trailer was even back there! Plus, I think it really is a great looking SUV. I wish that the rear floor was lower. Thats my only complaint. The dealers have been great. I have yet to pay for any service, so out of curiosity I recently asked what my oil changes will cost after warranty. About $40! I never escaped from the Mercedes dealer for less than $250! My father has the Ford Expedition, and used to love it until he drove my Tahoe. Now he is Tahoe Shopping.

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  BE CAUTIOUS - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By edictal - June 20 - 10:22 pm

  this is a out standing car for the most part but there are some down sides engineering wise. first of all the interior is fill with cheap plastic that cracks. second it burns through brakes like a race car and the most important in this segment of this car 2006 and up to present. the car has a defect in the engine where it causes oil to seap in to the cylinder and get burned up. well that may not sound bad at first but it begins to use oil in between oil changes. and the only to fix is buy new pistons or a new engine. mine is up to 2 quarts in between oil changes (3000 miles)