The Tahoe has three trims to choose from, starting with the LS in the low $50s and the LT in the mid $50s. The LTZ is the most expensive with a suggested manufacturer’s retail price of $59,000. The “Sun Entertainment and Destinations” package can add an additional $3,255. As the name would suggest, it includes a power sunroof, rear seat Blu-ray entertainment system, and a navigation system. This package is available on the LT trim as well.
Chevrolet’s Tahoe is quiet and has enhanced aerodynamics. The new cockpit-like interior adds to the quietness with greater comfort and functionality.
The 5.3L EcoTec V8 engine featuring VVT, Active Fuel Management, and Direct Injection; together with the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission are standard on all trims. Gas mileage for 2WD trims are 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while for 4WD models are 16 and 22.
The Tahoe’s powertrain bucket is full with 355 hp with 5,600 rpm and 383 lb-ft torque with 4,100 rpm. There is a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds (2WD) and a fuel tank that holds 26 gallons. Tahoe can go far, pull hard, and tote heavy while averaging 18 mpg.
My LTZ had a crystal red tint coat resting on 20-inch wheels and retractable assist steps; while inside, the jet black mahogany trim made the vehicle all the more beautiful.
Projector-beam headlamps and rear LED taillamps, plus a hidden rear wiper that is tucked away under the rear spoiler at the roofline add to the safety. I once drove a competitor’s vehicle with a rear wiper that I could never get to turn off. Not a problem here.
The acoustic-laminated windshield and triple-sealed doors helped to create that quietness and luxury feeling mentioned earlier. The standard heated and cooled, perforated leather-appointed, front bucket seats and a heated steering wheel are sweet. Yes, the seat was wide and comfortable, perfect for the half-century-plus healthy posterior that is mine.
I kept messing around with interior spaciousness and made room for up to nine travelers. Cozy, but not uncomfortable. And the second and third row seats fold flat to offer up to 94.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Just touch the button. The power release second-row and power third-row seats make all that possible.
An 8-inch color touch screen with Chevrolet MyLink allows you to arrange icons and features on the screen by simply touching or swiping the screen—just like on your smart phone. I finally found a new luxury vehicle with top notch technology with just enough knobs not to complicate things for me.
Important information about the vehicle on the in-dash 4.2-inch screen was easily viewed through the steering wheel. Bluetooth wireless technology and keyless entry with push button start offered additional convenience.
The LTZ had the 10-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound system which kept the sweet music flowing, running parallel with the air vents that provided a sleek look with a cool flow.
Your communication devices are easy to recharge with the 110-volt three prong outlet hidden in a recessive open compartment just below the air conditioning system.
The all-new front suspension made for an exceptional ride and confident handling. I am sure this was made easier by the aluminum control arms and front springs that are 25 percent stiffer than before.
There are a whole host of helpful and driver assist technologies that are strategically located in camera and radar sensors to warn you of potential dangers in your surroundings or on the road. The LTZ also has a class exclusive, seat-mounted, front-center airbag for added protection in side-impact collisions, plus 6 other standard ones to protect all occupants.
Quite frankly, I found little to object about during my driving experience. Because Tahoe is large it didn’t get the gas mileage it needs to remain competitive. But its size (204 inches long and 80.5 inches wide) didn’t make it difficult to drive or park. And Boy! What great space.
Warranty Package
3-yr/36,000 mi. Bumper to Bumper Warranty
5-yr/100,000 mi. Powertrain Limited Warranty
5-yr/100,000 mi. Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation
2-yr/24,000 mi. Complimentary Schedules Maintenance
6-yr/100,000 mi. Rust-Through Protection
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].
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