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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Like a Roc-- Mashmallow - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
By Liza Coronel - August 5 - 2:00 amUhhhh, great truck but it has a fatal flaw. A deal killer. Reason enough to check out the competition. In spite of many wonderful features as reported here before the Autoride makes this thing handle like it has a marshmallow suspension. It wobbles and wiggles like a hula dancer. GM says it is "normal" I call it "unacceptable".
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Solid Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
By millms - August 4 - 2:00 amI replaced a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee V8 with a 2003 Tahoe Z71. My fist reaction to the Tahoe was that it was slow compared to the Jeep but clobbers it in comfort and capacity. Its great for taking a group to the slopes or hunting but it is not an off-raod vehicle beyond a dirt road. My friend has the Z71 too and by adding duel exhaust an airbox and driving in 3rd gear it helps with the sluggish accelaeration. I will make the same alterations once my warranty expires. Overall I think its a great vehicle for weekenders who travel betweeen houses or people with larger families as the cargo capacity and comfort is great.
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Love the SUV - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
By RonC - July 31 - 2:00 amThe only problem is that it really rides like a truck compared to the Trailblazer I traded in.
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Had a Few Problems But Happy - 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe
By Happy-campers-r-us - July 30 - 2:00 amI bought this vehicle used 18 mos ago with 29,000 miles. Fortunately it was still under mfg warranty and I was able to purchase an extended warranty for $1200. I have used the extended warranty twice in the past 3 weeks. The first time was for the Electronic Brake control module (ABS computer) $950. The second problem was another computer problem for the ignition system = $450. Otherwise I am very happy with the vehicle. We use it to tow our camper and it works great. But I am certainly glad we purchased the extended warranty.
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Solid Vehicle (so far) - 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe
By calljunior - July 24 - 2:00 amIve owned this vehicle for 2 year and other than corrosion on the + battery cable it has been a champ inside and out. Now at 60k miles its developed a "whine" that appears to be coming from somewhere in the engine compartment so Im holding my breath a bit...wondering. Ive run across some vehicles Id like to own but I just cant justify letting go of what has been such a reliable SUV. Im crossing my fingers for another good 60k miles.
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Great Fun - 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe
By freedrfreed - July 11 - 2:00 amI love the comfort and stlye and the power comes in real hande when you need it,towes very well.my truck has 220,000 miles with a new motor{rebuilt} and the only thing that broke was my rear end but after 220,000 miles I paid the $1,500 to repaire it and never looked back and tow a 4,500 pound boat with no promblem, but this truck is a gas sucker but it handles and does so much work for you I wont sell mine.
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A Nice Improvement - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
By Glenn Watkins - July 3 - 10:00 amThe truck is solid, quiet, and has a smooth ride. Performance is very good with the 5.3L engine, even for a heavy truck. Towing my 5,500# trailer is a breeze. Fuel economy is somewhat lacking, even with a light foot. Build quality appears to be very good, even better than my 98 Tahoe.
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One Smooth Ride - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
By Scottski - June 14 - 2:00 amI enjoy my Z71 Tahoe. Love the features and cant pass up the XM radio, worth the money. Had the rear brake pads replaced at 11000 miles, technician said GM has been having problems with the pads on the tahoes. Other than that great vehicle, except for gas mileage.
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My 5th Tahoe - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
By FSM104 - May 19 - 10:00 amThis was another Tahoe that I have purchased and been totally satisfied.
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Fantastic - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
By NYShorty - May 5 - 2:00 amI just purchased my used Tahoe in March of this year.I have to say Im not disappointed.About a month after I purchased it I drove from New York to Florida and back without a problem. It took some getting used to but once you get comfortable with its size its smooth sailing from there. She drives smoothly on the highway and equally well on local roads.I was also surprised at the fuel economy.I was expecting to have to stop for gas at least 6 or 7 times and wound up only stopping 3 times.With gas prices these days that was a definite bonus. Its very spacious with lots of cargo room.I was able to fit the contents of a 1BR apt in it.I have no complaints.
