2007 Chevrolet Tahoe Review discusses a much improved SUV.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe Review

The Tahoe is a full-size SUV that took the form of a renamed Blazer in 1995. The next generation, resembling the Silverado, debuted in 2000. An all-new Tahoe debuts for 2007. It was named Motor Trend's "Truck of the Year" in 1996.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The new Chevrolet Tahoe is a drastic improvement over its aging predecessor. Offering good gas mileage for its size, a decent interior, and modern safety features, the Tahoe is a promising offer from Chevy. However, as a family car, we could certainly recommend better. On the other hand, the Tahoe is tough to beat for a work vehicle. Tons of storage space, a big engine, and a good price give the Tahoe a utilitarian slant that its more family friendly competitors lack.

What's New For 2007:

The Tahoe is all-new for 2007. Fuel economy and performance have been markedly improved. The interior has also been revamped, designed with noise reduction in mind. The materials are also a big step up from the last generation.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Tahoe 2 stars for overall mechanical quality, but 3.5 stars for overall design quality. Problems with the last generation include water leaks from the air conditioner, low heater output, oil leaks, and rough idling. It was recalled fourteen times for issues such as overheating fuel pump wires, fracturing driveshafts, and cracking brakes. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Tahoe received perfect government frontal crash test scores. No other data is available. Anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring, and stability control are standard. Side airbags are optional on all but the LT-3 and LTZ.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Big engine
+ Good price
+ Plenty of cargo room

Cons
- Side airbags optional
- Heavy
- Can get pretty pricey

Head-To-Head Competition:

The 2008 Buick Enclave, for $2,000 more adds standard AWD, leather, and side airbags. However, it has a smaller, V6 engine and less cargo room. The 2008 Ford Explorer Limited, at about $1,400 more, has standard 4WD, side airbags, leather, and a CD changer. The Honda Pilot EX-L, at $1,000 more, offers a DVD player, CD changer, side airbags, leather seats, and a moonroof. However, it only has a V6 with 50 less hp, and can't haul as much.

What Others Are Saying:

"The new-generation Chevrolet Tahoe promises to lead the full-size SUV class for years to come. New, trim styling, a quiet, exemplary interior, fuel-saving V8 and impressive ride and handling puts this large SUV head and shoulders above others." - MSN

"Poseurs aside, the core buyers of large and powerful SUVs, such as the Tahoe, frequently pull boats, campers and the like. As a result, the new model doesn't skimp in the towing department, with a maximum rating of 7,700 pounds when equipped with four-wheel drive." - Forbes

"Has GM hit a gusher? Too soon to say. But the Tahoe is exactly what GM needed--a bigger, stronger, safer, more fuel-efficient sport/utility with a decent interior--finally. Let's hope this is indicative of a better planning and development approach that'll produce more competitive products from here on out." - Motor Trend

Read more about the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Sunday, April 8, 2007 - Email to a friend

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