2000 Chevrolet Tahoe Limited and Z71: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chevrolet sells these specialty versions of its 1995-1999 vintage Tahoe alongside redesigned models that debuted in late fall as all-new 2000s. The Tahoe Z71 and Limited also are labeled 2000, but will be available only through the summer. The strategy is similar to the one that retains the previous-generation Cadillac Escalade and GMC Yukon Denali, which are basically retrimmed versions of this Tahoe. The Chevy models are both 4-door wagons with a 5.7-liter V8 and automatic transmission. The Z71 is built around equipment previously exclusive to the Z71 off-road option package. It includes Autotrac 4-wheel drive, which can remain engaged on dry pavement, plus underbody skid plates, a grille brush guard, protective taillamp cages, and all-terrain tires. The style-conscious Limited is a new Tahoe incarnation and comes with rear-wheel-drive only. It's built around police-package equipment, including heavy-duty suspension, brakes, and cooling and electrical systems, but employs custom exterior touches. These include body-colored bumpers and grille, special chrome wheels, foglamps integrated with the front bumper, and ground-effects skirts. Deleted are the roof rack and bodyside moldings. Both models come with two-tone leather seats, gas-charged shock absorbers, and a locking rear differential.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buy is the Ford Expedition. We love the size, comfort, and power of this big SUV. Hot on its heels are the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. We were very impressed with these vehicles initially, and when we have more time to fully evaluate them we expect them to be Best Buys as well.
For a few more bucks you can get the highly recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.