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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  AMERICAN RELIABILITY?! - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By windswest - August 9 - 2:00 am

  Bland exterior styling and clumsy interior. But for all the fuss about the poor quality of american-made cars this vehicle has performed as reliably as any asian import. Dollar for dollar the Tahoe is the most intelligent choice in its class. You get power, comfort & convenience for a lot less than you would pay for a smaller less well equipped import. If you can get over your nervousness about buying an american-made auto you will be pleasantly surprised and rewarded with your investment.

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  Sporty and Fun - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Robin Courtney - August 8 - 2:00 am

  We just purchased our 2004 Tahoe LT and are having a blast driving it. The dark green is always an eye-catcher. We have 2 very young children and live near lots of family. It is very roomy and comfortable. We had rented one to take to California for a month and felt very safe in it. We had rented a new Explorer the time before and did not like it. We are very very happy about our decision to purchase the Tahoe. There is no other way to travel. The Tahoe is the only way to go.

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  2004 Chevy Tahoe - WOW! - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By TRIPOLInc - August 7 - 2:00 am

  Tahoe. The name says it all. Simply put, the standard that all SUVs are judged by. Year after year you see them everywhere. And for good reason. The interior, quiet & comfortable. The exterior, absolutely gorgeous! New for 04 is the most perfect color ever, Silver Birch (creamier than white, yet lighter than GMs previous Sandlewood). This color hides the dirt, making it super easy to keep clean! Believe it or not, the exterior of the LS is more attractive than the upscale LT. Why? The LS uses black trim on all handles, rather than a matching color. The contrast really makes it! Seating for 9, too! Wow! Pay < 30k out the door. You cant beat th

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  I love my Tahoe Z71 - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By KrisR - August 7 - 2:00 am

  I had a 2001 Tahoe LS that we bought new and I loved driving it. When the car makers began running rebates and low apr at the beginning of this year, my husband told me to look at a new SUV. I was so satisfied with my Tahoe and its performance, I traded it for a new 2004 Tahoe Z71! I love my new Tahoe- its design, comfort, amenities, and vesitility. It drives like a luxury car, but it is a 4WD.

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  Very Good - 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Buckstein - August 6 - 2:00 am

  Best SUV I have ever owned. I have had many SUVs and this by far is the best. Excellent in the snow. Great fun to drive.

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  Like a Roc-- Mashmallow - 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Liza Coronel - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Uhhhh, great truck but it has a fatal flaw. A deal killer. Reason enough to check out the competition. In spite of many wonderful features as reported here before the Autoride makes this thing handle like it has a marshmallow suspension. It wobbles and wiggles like a hula dancer. GM says it is "normal" I call it "unacceptable".

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  THIS IS A NICE SUV BUT..... - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By OUTCOLD - August 5 - 2:00 am

  This suv is nice I jus bought it in July but unfortunately because of a poor customer service event in buying the suv I am trading it in for a Chrysler Pacifica. This gas mileage sucks worst than expected. The dealership experience was the worst I have ever encountered. They wouldnt give me a full tank of gas when I bought the darn thing! Its a 40,000 dollar vehicle and I cant even get a gas card.

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  quality machine - 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By j.anderson - August 4 - 2:00 am

  A very functional SUV. Never had any serious problems over 6 years. Very roomy interior and great interstate vehichle.

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  Solid Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By millms - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I replaced a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee V8 with a 2003 Tahoe Z71. My fist reaction to the Tahoe was that it was slow compared to the Jeep but clobbers it in comfort and capacity. Its great for taking a group to the slopes or hunting but it is not an off-raod vehicle beyond a dirt road. My friend has the Z71 too and by adding duel exhaust an airbox and driving in 3rd gear it helps with the sluggish accelaeration. I will make the same alterations once my warranty expires. Overall I think its a great vehicle for weekenders who travel betweeen houses or people with larger families as the cargo capacity and comfort is great.

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  1999 Tahoe - 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe
  By Todd Neu - August 3 - 2:00 am

  Neat simple exterior design. Would change the tailgate to that of a Suburban (2 opening doors). Peppy engine for a SUV.