2007-2008 Chevrolet Tahoe: Road Test

With the 5.3-liter V8, Tahoes have fine power from any speed. Transmissions shift smoothly, though some testers have complained of delayed downshifts with the four-speed automatic. Towing capacity is 7700 pounds. Ethanol-blended fuel, called E85, is available in most states and can be less expensive than regular-grade gasoline. E85 can be used in versions of the Tahoe with the 5.3-liter V8 engine. Test Tahoes showed no difference in acceleration when using E85. Test 4WD Tahoes averaged 15.4 mpg in mostly highway driving, and 14.5 to 14.8 mpg in an even city/highway mix. In extended-use testing, a Tahoe LTZ averaged 14.1 mpg on regular-grade fuel, and 11.6 mpg when using E85. GM recommends regular-grade gasoline. Tahoes with 17-inch tires deliver car-like comfort over bumps, though some floaty motions may be observed over dips and swells. GM's Autoride suspension (standard on Tahoe LTZ) quells some float, but doesn't add significantly to ride comfort. Available 20-inch tires transmit minor road imperfections more readily than the 17s. Chevrolet's big SUVs react alertly to steering inputs. While some testers have said the steering is too sensitive at highway speeds-especially with 20-inch tires-all agree that it lacks the sloppiness that plagued the 2000-2006 generation. These are tall, heavy vehicles, so they never feel nimble. Even so, the base suspension produces no excessive body lean in turns, and there's even less with Autoride. Low-speed maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. Brakes feel strong, but some testers would have preferred better pedal modulation. These are quiet runners, with powertrains that serve as models of refinement. Highway-speed wind rush is moderate. No undue road noise is evident, even if 20-inch tires are mounted. Gauges are large and generally easy to read, but some testers have felt that markings are too indistinct for best legibility. Most controls are logically placed and operate with precision. The available navigation system has a large, easy-read touch screen; it absorbs but does not complicate audio functions. Chevrolet designers deserve credit for the Tahoe's upscale, contemporary cabin ambience. Tahoes also are assembled with strong attention to detail. Most interior materials feel high-grade, though soft-touch surfaces are scarce. Whether a bench seat or buckets are installed in front, Tahoe seats are supportive, yielding generous head- and legroom. On the other hand, the bench seat's cramped center position should be reserved for emergency situations. Available power-adjustable pedals, if installed, are a convenience for shorter drivers. A rearview camera would aid aft visibility, but it tends to distort distances, compromising its usefulness. All models have spacious second-row seats. If the spring-release option is installed, those second-row seats spring forward to ease access to the third row-though passage to the rear is still tight and seats must be manually restored to the original position. The third row is best left to children, because the low-to-floor cushion forces knees-up discomfort for anyone else. High step-in impedes entry/exit to the second row. Cargo volume is spacious with two rows of seats up, but adequate only for a single row of grocery bags behind the third-row seat, if it's in an upright position. Folded third-row seatbacks rest well above the level of the rear load floor, complicating loading of larger items. Third-row seats unlatch easily, but are heavy and cumbersome to remove. Cabin storage is enhanced by a large center console bin. Front door pockets are roomy, but backseat passengers get none.

Value for the Money
GM's 2007 redesign of its large Chevrolet and GMC SUVs addressed the most egregious flaws of their 2000-2006 predecessors: sloppy steering and subpar interior appointments. Third-row accommodations in the Tahoe are still best suited for children. Otherwise, for smooth power, utility, and surprising overall refinement, these are first-rate trucks. A carefully optioned Tahoe has been the best choice, making them a Best Buy value among large SUVs.