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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  Chevy Tahoe - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By lniglio - October 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the best SUV Ive ever owned. I have previously owned a 2000 Blazer, and a 2002 Trailblazer. The Tahoe has it all over both of them. I wouldnt trade it for anything.

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  Good car -- get checked out before warr. - 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By bluetahoe - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I love my 2002 Tahoe however to anyone buying one i would take it in before the warranty expires and get them to do a full overhaul. I had to get my two front window "cranks" replaced (would have been 500 a piece. Just make sure you take it in and let them check everything.

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  tahoe review on z71 - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By john henry@verizon.n - October 19 - 2:00 am

  very nice car should have 350 engine for better pulling power, z-71 needs bumper protection down side mine already has several nicks from people opening doors in parking lot

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  Lovin it ! - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By All Jazz - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my 2002 Z71 with 15000 miles on it. I really wanted a BMW X5 but knew that I would regret it because of the size. I need room! I traded in a Jeep that I loved but it was getting up there in miles. So far I love my Tahoe! I wish the Z71 had the third row. I found a company that will sell you one to install yourself. My only concern has been that the steering wheel is not as tight as I would like it. I am taking it back to the dealer to be looked at. Is this typical? I am proud to be a Chevy owner!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  so so - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By gt - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought used with 51K on her. Ran great up to 80K. Timing chain broke, dinged the valves and $4,000 later had it back for a week before the timing chain broke again (dealer installed incorrectly) Now at 120,000 mile have had to replaced brakes and rotors three times, replaced alternator twice, transmission is going and the fuel regulator is about to go as well. replaced wiper motor as well. Comfortable/powerful ride, but will cost ~$10K to get another 100,000 miles out of it. Ready to move on to something else.

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  Chevy trade up - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By suburban trader - October 9 - 2:00 am

  I traded a 94 Suburban in on the 04 Z71 Tahoe and love the new vehicle. I am getting 5 mpg better milage and the comfort is much better. Turning radius is better and all the "toys" cant be beat. Have 4 leather buckets and comfort in entire vehicle is great. Visibility for driver fantastic.

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  Love / Hate Relationship... - 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By WillySLC - October 7 - 2:00 am

  We started looking for an SUV last year and when we saw this one, we had to have it. The Tahoe drives better than any other SUV in its class. It is very solid on the road and gives great confidence. This much I love. I HATE the reliability. Immediately after we bought it, we had to have several fuel injectors replaced at about $500.00. Some time later, the fuel pump failed. We also replaced the alternator. All this in about a years ownership. Oh yeah, and the drivers door handle broke off. We also find that the lack of rear air conditioning is a major down side. So, like I say, we love to drive it, but it is a huge money pit.

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  Love it! - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By ccairns - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I love my Tahoe! I drive 38 miles to work everyday, my Tahoe gives me the comfort and reliability I need on a daily basis. The cargo space comes in handy on the weekends for loading of large items (wood, furniture, etc.).

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  It is the best car out there! - 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Binh Contreras - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I love these trucks! They are comfortabel, however miliage is slim...too expensive! Well, I really like the leather seats and all the nice features, including on star! Dark blue is the best color. Dont change them to somthing square and keep up the beautiful chevy models...looking forward to new cars!

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  Love Hate relationship - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Billfan - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Love my Z71. I have had two annoying problems that ruin the experience. Something shaking in the front end and it switches from 4 wheel to 2 wheel on its own. Steering part on back order, and reprogramed transmission. Hopefully this is the end of trips to the dealer and I will have the great experience everyone else seems to be having. The truck is fast, more comfortable than my Cadillacs, and rides nearly as well. Can haul a bunch of stuff, and looks good. Suprised at first year depreciation of $10,000(retail to trade in value).