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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  Segment Leader - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By BoatReady - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Very satisfied w/the LS. Upgrades include: Bose system, leather, Sun Safe and something, towing pkg, 17" wheels, LS Prfd, 5.3 engine, and 3rd row seating (saleman stressed it b/c of resale value). The LS makes the commute almost enjoyable. The ride is non-SUV-like as the bumps seem to dissappear. Looked at other vehicles at this price point (cars and SUVs) and concluded the Cheverolet offered more vehicle for the $$$.

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  Powerhouse with style - 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Jason - March 6 - 1:12 pm

  Some say the interior looks dated, I say it looks fine. Now that it is about 5+ years old, no one can believe it has 60,000 miles, it looks new. I am a very maintenance concious though. I wax every 3 months, and wash every week. I definitely do routine oil change.

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  Z 71 Tahoe - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Sean - March 6 - 9:54 am

  The Chevy Tahoe has an exceptional ride for a full size 4WD SUV. Rear captains chairs are very comfortable for adult passengers. Third row split seat is very covenient to install and or remove.

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  Nice, powerful and reliable ride. - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By SMac - March 5 - 10:41 pm

  Even though I dont have anything or anyone to haul around, I love having the room if I need it. Actually, I did once deliver a new stove and it fit in the back with the seat folded down. Not great gas mileage - but Im glad I have the power to get on the highway with no problems.

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  04 TAHOE LT - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By JohnandRebecca - March 4 - 10:00 am

  I am not a big fan of SUVs. I was in market for a mini-van. However after allowing myself the opportunity to test drive this vehicle I was sold. It had more room for my children, more versatility for those weekend baseball games and soccer games, and when it came down to a road trip the comfort factor could not have been matched. With the included features such as on- star, it gives you plenty added ease of mind. Also good to mentions are the XM radio and the Bose sound system. If you are going to pick up a Tahoe, opt for the LT. Avoid the 4WD option, unless needed. It will just run up maintainence costs. the 2WD can tow quite a load on its own merits.

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  Tahoe - SUV for the Rockies - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Don Douglas - March 4 - 8:57 am

  Best vehicle I have ever owned. It is equally fitting for driving around town in Denver or taking the toughest incline in the Rockies. I love the power my wife loves the comfort. We recently drove from Denver to Houston and it was the most comfortable long trip I have ever taken in a vehicle. The only complaint is slightly squeaky brakes.

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  A true "LEMON" - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Disgruntled Owner - March 1 - 12:30 am

  Ive always been a Chevy person. I owned their full size & compact Blazers, 1500 pickup & two extended cab trucks before throwing my money away on the Tahoe-Lemon. To test drive the Tahoe is to want the Tahoe... roomy interior, smooth ride, just the right size. Unfortunately, to own the Tahoe is to be broke. Poor mpg (less than sticker indicates) & Constant Repair! I have replaced the tranny, starter, alt, water & fuel pumps, windshield wiper moter (recall), front interior door handles, passenger seat belt assembly clasp/lock, idler arm, brakes & rotors several times, & plug sets too many times to count. Steering scensors fail on/off as do electronics, interior plastics are now breaking.

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  Everything in one great package - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By ford stinks - February 26 - 1:24 pm

  After 46,000 miles I still love this car. As comfy as a luxury car with more bells and whistles than most. Towing my boat I sometimes forget its even back there! If you need space for kids, dogs, or just stuff this is the truck 4 you. Not to mention the saftey of having your family in a veritable tank. We will always buy Chevy from now on.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 07tahoeguy - February 23 - 2:01 pm

  Hands down currently the best overall Full Size SUV on the market today. If you havent had a test drive yet, get out there. One Warning, if you drive it, you will be sold. GM has stepped it up, Gen 3 is the real deal.

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  Bad Experience - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Martha Garza - February 18 - 2:00 am

  I been driving my Tahoe for about a year now, but had to take to get repairs about 4 to 5 times now. I am very dissapointed, because they even replaced my fuel pump when it wasnt even a year long..It is hard to belive that I am having this kind of problems with a new vehicle.