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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  Tahoe LT - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By TAHOELT - July 13 - 11:56 am

  The Chevrolet Tahoe has everything you could ever want in an SUV. Drives like a dream, performs exceptionally while pulling a trailer, plenty big for family trips, but easy to drive. I couldnt ask for a more comfortable, reliable SUV.

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  2002 Tahoe - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By JD - July 1 - 6:30 pm

  I traded in my Eddie Bauer Expedition for my Tahoe and Im very happy I made this decision. The Tahoe rides and drives much better than the expedition. I was quite surprised how much more power the Tahoe has over the Expedition. The interior on the Tahoe is very luxurious, and the heated seats sure are nice in the winter. Ive always owned Fords, so this is my first GM purchase, but wont be last.

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  Love this truck! - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Terri - June 28 - 10:53 am

  This is my second Tahoe. I traded an 02 in for this one because my experience with the 02 was so great. I stand by my original thoughts. I will never own anything else! I test drove a lot of SUVs and did a lot of research just to be sure when shopping, and nothing compares to the comfort and ease of this truck. I knew what I was getting into with the MPG, so I really cant complain about it. I have had a few minor problems that were quickly resolved: locked up steering wheel, the automatic rear door stopped working, etc. Overall a great experience and I will have owned it for a year in a couple of days!

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  Luv my Tahoe - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By SWDB - June 22 - 10:00 am

  This car has all the bells and whistles, the only thing it is missing is auto pilot. We purchased for the safety of our family. We are a Chevy family and will continue to be.

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  Wanted More Room - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By sadler19fan - June 20 - 6:46 pm

  I owned an 05 GTO but wanted an 07 Tahoe. My husband said I would not be happy since I loved the power of the Goat. Boy was he wrong! He drove it from GA to NC and said it wasnt as comfortable as his 03 Silverado. I then drove from GA to NC and I disagree with him completely. I wanted a black Tahoe but decided on white since it gets so hot in GA. I got the LT2 and added Victory Circle 20s with Pirelli tires. I get lots of looks when I drive, almost as many as I got in my reg GTO.

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  Tahoe - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Wanda - June 19 - 4:13 pm

  The Tahoe is by far more comfortable than any other SUV that I have driven. I am sure that my next vehicle will be a Tahoe as well. I had test driven quite a few before I settled on this one. I can seat eight people very comfortably.

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  Chevy Tahoe is a great family ride! - 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By maureen lemaster - June 19 - 10:08 am

  I purchased my Tahoe used and have had a wonderful experience driving it. It is completely trustworthy and comfortable for a family with kids and dogs. Even with high mileage, I never worry about taking my 2 year old out in the elements. I just know this truck will get us to our destination. This is my second Tahoe and I plan to keep buying them because of the high quality and good looks. I just love it!

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  Pleasantly impressed with my new Tahoe - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 3rd Platoon - June 15 - 11:26 pm

  I purchased my 07 Tahoe almost 2 weeks ago and really like it so far. I opted for the leather and rear sensors (LT2 package). The rear sensor is a great addition and well worth the extra cost. The leather is good quality and very comfortable. My buddy has an 04 Tahoe and there is no comparison between our two. The turning radius is just awesome in this thing! Im also surprised that Ive gotten over 15 mgp so far in mostly city driving, all while the engine isnt even broken in yet! Im really liking my new Tahoe!

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  Its a summer thing! - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By shastashark - June 15 - 1:41 pm

  I really like this Tahoe. I bought black on black. Black leather interior with black on the outside. It will be hard to keep clean... but when it is its a very sexy ride! With the 2nd row leather bucket seats its very roomy on the inside. It looks and feels like a limo! Fuel mileage is not bad, but what do you expect from an SUV at this size. All in all Im very happy!

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  Good and bad - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By DOYLE CORNETT - June 15 - 9:36 am

  The factory running boards are dangerous. I have had two people fall while getting out of my vehicle. They seem to become slippery and dont have a good amount of traction to them. This should be reported to GM and corrected. I also dont like the exterior door handles. My driver door handle seems to stick in the out position when closing or opening. I am a tall guy, and when I get in I often hit my knee on the dial that controls the lights on the left side below the steering wheel. This should be better placed.