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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  Still Happy after 8 years - 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Sally - September 20 - 7:06 pm

  I love my Tahoe! Its the first vehicle Ive owned that was my choice alone. Outside of normal maintenance, only the pump in the reservoir for the windshield cleaner has needed to be replaced. This thing handles like a car, slipping effortlessly into parking places and turning easily. After all this time, it still draws compliments.

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  a clean mean machine - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Don Bennett - September 13 - 9:30 am

  I have driven the vehicle 88K miles mostly on the hwy. smooth and comfortable. Gas mileage could certainly be better but with the non existence of problems and getting 104K miles on the original brakes I wouldnt complain at all. I came from driving 20 suburbans and the longer wheel base was the only thing missing other than carrying capacity which I didnt need any longer. GREAT CAR

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  Very Impressed !!!! - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Luis D. - September 11 - 10:58 am

  I must accept that at the beginning I was a little concern about the reliability of this truck due his history but I have to say after almost 3 years to own it that this is the best truck Ive ever had.No complaints at all. Just visits to dealership for regular maintenance and for a 5.8 V8 engine 17 miles/gal. is not bad !!

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  Run dont walk away - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Corey - September 8 - 3:57 pm

  The transmission went out initially at 75k miles, then again with 97k miles on it (luckily under the 36k warranty). Now with 106k miles on it the flex fuel sensor has gone out, and guess what? It is a dealer only part (quote for $800.00 from dealer to fix) You can buy on-line from GM for about $300.00 vs $500.00 at the dealer (love the markup) All in all I will never own anything from Government Motors again, worst reliability of any vehicle I have ever owned. Which is saying something as I have owned an old IH Scout which lasted longer and caused me less head aches.

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  Its a Mans Truck! - 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By ITS A MANS TRUCK - September 7 - 8:43 pm

  Well I had a 2001 surburban, got rid of it and bought the 96 tahoe.. Strong truck.. Transfer Case went out on 4x4.. Other than that I have 235,990 on it now.. Truck runs great no problem.. Oh yeah did change the intake gasket.. Great truck..

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  2005 Tahoe lt - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Brad - September 7 - 7:21 pm

  Original owner and currently have 22" wheels on it, love the look and easy to do repairs on if your willing to try. Good experience of ownership overall

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  Hard Driving - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 04Tahoe - September 5 - 11:28 am

  I now have 85k miles on this tahoe. Mechanically, it is in perfect condition! Only repair was the 4wd system sensor: $700. Cosmetically, I keep it washed and waxed and am amazing how it still turns heads. I drive Pacific Coast Highway every day, and to the mountains or river every weekend. I have absolutely not concern that this vehicle will make it to 250k miles if cared for properly. This is the best SUV for the money.

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  chevy tahoe LT - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By backstopmom - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Very surprised, did not expect this car to be this great.

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  So far So good... - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By RH-Fishers - August 31 - 5:43 pm

  We have owned or 2007 for a week now. So far I totally love it. GMs attempt for the foreign dash and knobs, or lack of knobs, has been done very nicely. The performance is good. I am very interested on how the DOD helps on our long lake trips. Ive seen 20- 24 mpg in V4 mode running around 55. Exterior is quickly growing on me. I am a big fan of Nissans Armada so that helps.

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  155 miles and already in the shop twice - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Aaron - August 30 - 4:26 pm

  Im sorry I listened to my wife and bought this over the Sequoia (what I wanted). Driving on highway after 38 miles and car died suddenly and for no reason. Towed in and replaced a wiring harness which was improperly installed. Now at 155 miles the gas gauge starts wildly going back and forth. Took it back in. Does look decent on inside (Ill give them that) and is stylish outside. But two trips to the shop in first 155 miles is indicative of faulty build quality. I will not own this vehicle any longer than I have to and will think long and hard before buying another GM product. If I had to spend the money over again, Id get a Sequoia.