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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  Blind spots and poorly designed console - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By everclimber - May 26 - 1:33 pm

  Ive owned 5 different tahoe/suburbans over the last 30 years. Stay away from the 2015 model. This vehicle has gotten fatter and has new blind spots. You can no longer look left to see cars on the drivers side-you must use your mirrors to see cars near you. The rear wiper stops in your line of vision, before swiping again, instead of returning to its normal starting place. There is no GPS, only ONSTAR. I use my phone GPS, but it rarely connects with the sound system. It turns out, this is a known issue, and will only work properly if you do not have the radio on! The bluetooth rarely connects. Ive had the backup camera and console go completely blank numerous times-dangerous!

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  Great Vehicle - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By ugaix - May 11 - 10:29 am

  I have been driving my 2015 Tahoe LTZ for awhile now and I have to say I think it is a fantastic vehicle. In the past I have driven a 2011 Tahoe LTZ and think the current generation is an upgrade in every since. I agree with other reviewers that the ride with magnetic ride control is different than with the air shocks, but I like the ride not feeling as "floaty." The interior trim and finish is worlds better than it was. I know it is a much more expensive vehicle now but it feels like it too. So far I am extremely please with the car and believe that is probably the way the majority of those who actually own one feel.

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  Best SUV I have ever had - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By mohanman - May 1 - 3:18 pm

  I have had Toyota 4Runner, BMW X5 (biggest piece of crap), Lexus GX 460, Cadillac SRX, and Nissan Armada. None of these beat the Tahoe that i recently got. The Tahoe is comfortable, quiet, and smooth. It looks awesome too. Im so happy with it. Highly recommended

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  BEST IVE EVER OWNED - 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Doris Patterson - April 30 - 10:11 pm

  Ive owned a Chevrolet Caprice Classic a Pontiac LeMans Sports Coupe a Pontiac Bonneville and a Mazda 626 and a 2009 Blazer. Knew for a long time what I wanted, but settled for a Blazer. 4x4. It was ok, but not what I had been wanting. Decided they werent getting any cheaperfinally locate the Tahoe. It was in another state Bose speakers burgundy 3 row seats. Bought it in January 2006. Drove 300 miles to get it. Never looked back. The mileage is 17.7. And I guess thats ok for as large a vehicle it is. I travel in my job every 3-4 months and Im never tired when I arrive. The Tahoe is everything I ever wanted. It looks like new. Ive had several people wanting to buy it.

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  Super Smooth riding 2015 Tahoe - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By joegraham - April 22 - 4:54 pm

  Only 1000 miles on the truck so far so Im still in the honeymoon phase,but I really like this truck. Ive owned Honda, Acura and Audi. Next to the Audi this is the smoothest driving and best looking vehicle Ive owned. 5.3 has plenty of power to move it. Trans is a little squirrely on downshifts. Sure MPGs could be better,but 16 and 23 on highway is spot on. Recently traded in a 2014 MDX Tech which I hated. Full of hard to use tech. Tahoe however is hi-tech & easy to use.The nav system flat out works. Understands voice commands,typing in address is as easy as it can get. Real-time weather app for road trips. third row is tight, and capt chairs should slide. overall very happy w Tahoe!

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  2007 Cheney Tahoe LT - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By rolland93 - March 13 - 2:32 pm

  Bought this truck about six months ago it has been reliable safe and fun to have and its more fuel-efficient than our old expedition. Its plenty a room but beware if you buy one make sure you get the bang for your buck I have an LT but I also have a customer that has the same year LT as I do and he has features unlike mine , sunroof GPS , 4X4 an automatic footboards.

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  124K and still Reliable - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Scott Sierzega - February 24 - 12:18 pm

  My 2007 Z71 Tahoe has needed minimal mechanical attention. 1st set of Brakes and Tires were at 75 to 80K miles (and I tow a Boat in summer months). At 100K I had the Rear Differential, Front Differential, Transfer Case, Transmission, and Anti Freeze fluids and Filters changed. As well as Spark Plugs, Wires and Serpentine Belt. All as preventative Maintenance. At about 110K my Driver Side Wheel Bearing replaced, and about 120K my Passenger side Wheel Bearing replaced. This truck is as beautiful as any 8-9 yr old Truck can be. This vehicle has NEVER left me stranded or been towed due to mechanical failure. My opinion, Paint and Interior have outlasted anything in its year range.

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  By far my favorite vehicle that Ive ever owned!! - 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By briggsy15 - February 15 - 4:28 am

  Within the last 8 years, Ive driven a Pilot, Expedition, a 2011 Explorer, and now a Tahoe. Without a doubt, my Tahoe has been #1 in my experience, even though I loved my Ford SUVs. After driving it for roughly 11 months and for over 15,000 miles, Ive had absolutely no issues with anything at all. I can easily fit two large car seats in the second row (captain chairs) and can comfortably fit another two car seats in the third row whenever we have extra kiddos with us. With the third row folded down, Im easily able to fit all 3 of my dogs (2 big boxers and a very husky pug)! It handles exceptionally well for its size gets better mpg than even my 11 Explorer got, and is easy to drive!

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  If you really need an SUV, choose another vehicle - 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By robi3 - February 2 - 3:53 pm

  I bought a Tahoe, with the towing package as I go cross country 2x times yearly towing a trailer with a gross wt. of 4500 lbs. (well below the wt rating). I also transport sporting equipment to remote areas but do not go off roading. In 36,000 mi, both differentials and rear shocks have had to be replaced, the Bridgestones that came on it handled poorly in even wet conditions and had to be replaced at 30,000 mi. Mileage without a trailer maxes out on the highway at 15, rated 21. Chevy technicians always seem "miffed" by clear symptoms of issues which require return visits for repairs until they find the issue. 3rd row seats tough to remove and store. Worst of 3 similar vehicles Ive owned

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  My LAST Chevrolet!!! - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 91notchback - December 26 - 10:10 am

  I have and 08 4X4 LT2 model Tahoe. It is driven approx. 8000 a year. At about 38000 miles and 4 years old the rear passenger door lock went out. I replaced it myself. About 6 months later the rear drivers failed. I replaced it also and started looking into this issue. Last week the front passengers lock went out and I contacted GM. Why I dont know. I guess after 3 out of 5 locks actuators failing I thought they may stand behind their product. I was wrong. They said they couldnt help because my warranty was out. I said no joke my warranty is out, but this seems to be a manf. defect, can you not replace your mistake. They said nope. About your luck. This will be my LAST GM product.