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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  First Tahoe - 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By gb44 - November 14 - 2:00 am

  Excellent build quality, nice ride, plenty of towing power for our travel trailer. Even my wife feels comfortable driving it, and usually she shies away from large vehicles, she does not feel intimidate in this vehicle. I have owned several Silverados so this is familiar, but a lot easier to whip into parking places.

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  I got my moeys worth - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Steve H. - November 9 - 2:00 am

  We bought our 05 Tahoe 2WD Z71 new. Went on many road trips pulling a 29 foot travel trailer. Rode and handled well every time - even with the heavy load, thanks to a weight distribution hitch. The only problem we have had since we bought it was the water pump developed a leak at 40K miles, which was 4K after the warranty expired. Since we had brought it in at 35K and mentioned that we occasionally smelled anti-freeze, and it was documented, the dealership replaced it under the factory warranty. The drivers seat also developed a tear along the outboard seam, and the dealership replaced it free of charge too. Since then, we have been more cognizant of how we exit the vehicle.

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  Peace of Mind - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By F.Rae - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Believe it or not,our Yukon had 160000 miles when I bought it for my wife on Mothers Day 09. Except for a water pump replacement, which was a snap to do myself, we have had no sign of trouble with this Black Beauty. Great ride. Very comfortable. A little hard on fuel but we dont complain. 12 mpg on average. It was as new inside and out when we bought it and still is as new. A wonderful Vehicle. Only one problem. When our daughter used it one day she did not want to give it back. She drives an acura

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By snoopy - October 23 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Taloe. My first was an 07 Tahoe which I traded on an 08 Silverado. Now I traded the Silverado on this 2010 Tahoe and I love it. Before the 07 Tahoe I had an 05 Toyota Sequoia which was junk. I will never again buy a Toyota as their reliability is BS in my book. Had my 07 Tahoe been Summit White I would never have traded it but the Silverado I traded it on ws white. Now my new 2010 Tahoe is Summit White with the Beige interior and it will be a keeper. The reason I prefer white is when sitting in the hot sun the a white car remains cooler than a dark car. Anyway I love everything about this Tahoe and especially the power folding outside mirrors.

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  My New 2011 Tahoe - 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Todd - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Love it! Fun to drive, best looking Tahoe Chevy has ever made. I "was" a Ford guy, but my new Tahoe makes the Expeditions look ugly. I have more power than I need but..I get the kids to grandmas house in a hurry, without a doubt! I bought a black one and it looks awesome. Highly recommend. Runs like a champ, smooth, quiet, all the extras I need. And I bought an ls model! Simply love it!

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  High quality comfortable SUV - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Joe Chocrame - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Tahoe for 3.5 years and it has never had any problem of any kind-- Ive put 78k miles on it. This fantastic vehicle has the most comfortable 1st and 2nd row seats Ive ever seen. The third row, although it has lots of padding, does not have very much leg room, its great for children. The ride and handling are very good. One high point of this sturdy SUV is its AMAZINGLY EXCELLENT TRACTION. While other vehicles are spinning around and slipping off the road, this vehicle charges ahead with utter confidence. Good visibility is another high point.

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  In Praise of Old Friends - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By wcrisler - October 10 - 2:00 am

  What a kick it is to read these reviews of this truck, which Ive owned since 1999. Driven under every possible condition imaginable -- long distance, short hauls, towing trailers, through deserts, over mountains, in blizzards, on- and off- road, its been through several girl friends, two wives and three kids and 258,130 miles. Sure, its needed repairs, just like me, including all those listed by "Disgruntled Owner", but there it is, still ready to take me wherever I want to go, without a complaint, like it has for over a decade. Its like an old hat, so comfortable you forget youre wearing it. Its my home, my refuge, wherever I go. Every inch evokes memories. Some of me will die with it

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  Excellent SUV - 1995 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Joey Dorsey - September 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Tahoe from a friend who had it since new, after numerous offers, he finally agreed to sell it to me. Probably the best $3000 I ever spent. The truck has 205,000 miles and still drives like a dream, and to call the 4 wheel drive powerful is an understatement. All and all this is my favorite of all the vehicles Ive owned.

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  You wont want another truck... - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By georgeb - September 12 - 2:00 am

  The truck is fantastic. If you love the outdoors, and dont need to climb mountains this is your truck. Off the start power leaves abit to be desired. But once it gets moving, it moves. I modified this truck with camping stuff, water system like an RV, second battery for my radios, and other gear, my own lighting system, took out the rear seats, dont need them. I got the truck with the large 20" tires, forget about the nav system, onstar and the radio is great...Leather is too uncomfortable, cloth, with neoprene custom covers much better.

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  Love Tahoes! - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Lina - August 29 - 9:54 pm

  This is my second Tahoe. I have had it for 2 years. I am around 60,000 miles. I do a lot of joy riding plus work. The truck is reliable in the snow and rain. It is very roomy in the front and second row. The third row is in the way and should have been an option as opposed to a standard. My 10 year old is the only one that can fit back there. The only issues that I have is the automatic door locks do not work when using the key fob or the button on the door. I have to use the key to unlock the door and reach over to unlock the doors. Also, the defrost coil that connects to the rear window came off and needs to be soldered back on. Those seem like easy fixes. The gas mileage could be better.