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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  I like this car! - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By andrewk23 - November 19 - 10:00 am

  After two jeeps and one explorer I have found the machine I will drive from now on. The interior is well designed, and has plenty of "bells and whistles" to keep you occupied. The seats are very comfortable, and the ride is smooth. It gets smoother the faster you go. Handles great in bad weather, you sit up high and can see everything around you very well.

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  AWESOME! - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Luke Hansen - November 16 - 9:10 pm

  Incredible, that explains it! The vehicle is by far the best SUV GM has ever come out with. The Tahoe drives nice, comfortable, and stylish!

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  One Great SUV - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Bill V - November 16 - 1:51 am

  I have owned a lot of Trucks and several SUVs and this rig is hands down my favorite of all times. It is Fun to drive, very comfortable and pull my camping trailer like its not there. The Tahoe is solid and has a lot of power, Im able to pull my trailer up a steep grade leading to our favorite camp ground at 55 MPH, my old SUV could only go 25 MPH max. The gas mileage is not bad for such a large SUV on a recent trip I was able to get 18 MPG. I didnt want the on- star but it came with it and now I could not live without it, the hands free phone it a great feature and works were my flip phone wont.

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  Best Vehicle Ever Owned - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Al - November 15 - 3:46 am

  The 2005 Tahoe is the best vehicle I ever owned. I had a Dodge Grand Caravan prior to this and I disliked it. Poor quality interior, and uncomfortable. Ive owned a lot of vehicles and also own a 1979 Corvette. I like driving my Tahoe better. My next vehicle? A Tahoe.

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  Best SUV Ever Made - 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Michael McCown - November 15 - 1:07 am

  This Tahoe has the best ride quality, best handling, best acceleration, best gas mileage in its class, and the Bose sound system is amazing. Not to mention the timeless bodystyle.

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  dream car - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By kelly007 - November 14 - 10:00 am

  great vehicle, except black gets too dirty

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  What a Joy - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By mrgn4shw - November 10 - 3:15 pm

  Traded my old 98 Tahoe for 2005. Even with the price of fuel, still glad I did it. I feel safer and the comfort of the ride is great. Holds dogs, grandkids and pulls a horse or boat trailer. Put the seats down or take them out and have tons of room for luggage and a place for another person to rest while doing cross country trip. I am getting 16 mi per gallon on the highway and 14-15 around town. I love my Tahoe

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  Yeah, baby! - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Big E - November 8 - 1:42 pm

  Ive been waiting a long time to be able to buy a Tahoe, and Im not disappointed. The CD player stopped working recently and OnStar did not work when new. Dealer service and satisfaction has been excellent and way more than I expected.

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  Built to Last - 1995 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Zener123 - October 28 - 2:38 pm

  I bought my Tahoe with 174,000 miles, 3 years later and 254,000 miles on the odometer, this SUV is mechanically sound. Repairs have been needed. Ive replaced the radiator, muffler, and the intake manifold gasket (antifreeze leak on the front block - total parts cost $600). I change the oil every 3,000 miles. With a little luck I might get another 80,000 miles out of this engine (or another 3 years - holding my breath). If you want an old reliable SUV and dont mind using Chiltons manual to do the work yourself, this may be the SUV for you.

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  Z71 Tahoe - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Step - October 25 - 1:03 pm

  This is a very capable off road vehicle that is great for trail riding. Try it the kids will love it. I have forded streams about 2 feet high, climbed many of hills, and even did some er, little mud. (Takes too long to clean) I am very happy with the ride the performance and the room it has. The kids have the DVD and the parents have the BOSE system, Sweet! There are always things you would like more of but this one is a great as is package. If you want some cheap performance additions try a single exit Corsa exhaust, Airaid cold intake and spacer. This makes it sound great and helps highway performance and gas mileage. (+2MPG improvement)