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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  Problems within a year - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By tahoe07 - August 13 - 10:03 am

  I had a lot of problems within a year with my 2007 Tahoe. First, was the drivers seat. It happened 3 mos after my purchase. The auto function wouldnt work so I had to bring it to the nearest dealer. Second, on the fifth month, the digital display of my tire pressures wasnt working, again I had to bring it to the dealership. On the 8th month, major problems. My car wouldnt engage to Drive, I had to put it to 2nd gear in order for it to move. It took a week for the dealership to fix the problem. Too many problems with the vehicle, its been less than a year. Lastly, I average 15mpg.

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  Worth 20 Grand - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Fortunate One - August 12 - 7:18 pm

  Unless they make a new model or Hummer makes a 2 door, the value will go up on the body style. Its value is also in the power to weight ratio. It can pull more than I think it should. The spline on the drive shaft can be damaged. If you sell yours, always remember, if the dealers say its hot, then it is. Anything that ever broke was for a reason directly linked to the condition it was exposed to. Plastic tabs for example on the interior, were not designed for endurance, but for ease of assembly. Put Baer disk brakes on all four, and replace injectors. Cost of repair much less than interest on new loan alone, exceptional recreational second vehicle.

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  Like it .. Love it - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By CheriSki - August 8 - 1:25 pm

  I like this Tahoe, but am going to make some changes. it needs bigger rims and tires, a DVD system, and the glass needs to be darker. Once that is done, I will go from Like it to Love it. It drives great, can fit 3 full size car seats in the back and the AC is freezing.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Higgie - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Great acceleration for 5500 pounds, very comfortable front seats when equipped with the LT package. Low road noise levels and great sound system

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  Most Advanced SUV I Ever Owned - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By 38Commander - August 7 - 2:34 am

  Just picked up my 2005 Tahoe. Has every option, including NAV system, XM satelite radio, DVD, etc. I love this truck more than my Corvette! Its like taking my family room on the road. I only wish it would go longer distance on a tank of gas. About 12 miles per gallon (OUCH)

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  A great SUV for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By lovemytahoe - August 5 - 5:19 am

  Wonderful car - we drive from LA to Scottsdale 4 times per year. The freeway ride is luxurious and comfortable. The DVD player is a must have for the kids. Third row seat is pretty handy, but wow, you get a lot of storage space when you remove them. I considered a Range Rover but am so glad I bought this - its not as luxurious, but the bang for the buck is much higher in the Tahoe. All this and it tackles rain and snow on ski trips flawlessly.

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  Hayles - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Darla Hayles - August 2 - 2:00 am

  Room enough for the whole family. Fun to drive and a since os being secure and safe.

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  Redefined - 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Dan - August 2 - 1:13 am

  Only having this vehicle for one week I have to say this is a really nice truck. The looks, interior and exterior, ride and comfort is first rate. GM really put some effort in knowing and understanding what the customer want.

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  My toy - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By nancy weisman - July 31 - 5:55 pm

  I have driven a lot of vehicles, and owned quite a few. I love my Tahoe. Its everything you need in a vehicle. The mileage could be better, but I like it anyway.

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  Nothing compares to the Z71 2005 Tahoe - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Brenda - July 29 - 11:52 pm

  I just traded in my 2001 2 WD Tahoe for the Z71 2005 package. My Tahoe is black. Most significant things Ive noticed are visibility, power, looks, and strength. Im 53 years old, and this is the best vehicle Ive ever had the pleasure of owning. Ive had more fun in this truck....I can say even more than my 1969 Mach I and 1973 Black Charger (ss - special edition). Im in love. Thank you Chevy, and thank you for giving us a better price.