2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Review

The Tahoe is a fullsize SUV that debuted in 1995 as the full-size version of the Blazer. It was redesigned in 2000. Stability control was offered for the first time in 2003, and the latest generation debuted in 2007 with adjustments to improve the ride, handling and interior. The Tahoe was voted Motor Trend's "Truck of the Year" in 1996.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Tahoe has improved greatly this generation, with a smoother ride and luxurious interior. While it's expensive in its segment, it beats the upper trims of its competitors in overall value. If you're interested in a fullsize SUV, the Tahoe should not be overlooked.

What's New For 2008:

Side airbags are now standard. The gauges have been updated, and storage compartments have been added to the front seat. OnStar now includes navigation on the LT and LTZ.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$34,630

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
6

Gas Mileage:
14/19

Engine:
4.8L V8

Horsepower:
295@5600RPM

Torque:
305@4800RPM

Transmission:
4 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
26

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Tahoe 3 stars for overall quality. The previous generation had issues with weak heaters, oil leaks, rough idling and water leaks. It was recalled fifteen times. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Tahoe earned 5 stars in government front and side crash tests. IIHS results are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability and traction control are standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Luxurious interior
+ Spacious
+ Smooth ride

Cons
- Awkward third row
- Poor reliability history
- Pricey

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Durango Limited includes leather seats standard, but lacks traction control, and can't carry as much. The Toyota Sequoia costs the same, but has over 70 less hp and can't carry as much. The Ford Expedition EL XLT is very similar, but can't carry quite as much and lacks standard navigation.

What Others Are Saying:

"Some Chevy charm has been lost with the new exterior, even though it has been built with evident care. The interior is a home run. The previous vehicle's haphazard olio of clunky knobs and switches gives way to a low, sleek dash fitted with handsome, neatly packaged control sets clustered by function. The look is tailored and upscale, more Cadillac than Chevy. Will it and its seven iterations (from Avalanche to Suburban) sell? Time will tell." - Automobile Magazine

"The 2007 Chevy Tahoe has better steering and braking response, Displacement on Demand engine technology and enhanced safety features that make it an attractive choice among full-size SUVs." - The New York Times

"In short, the Tahoe looks, rides, handles, steers, stops and feels like a luxury car. So, if that sort of thing appeals, how about a luxury car? Or a minivan? You know: something with better mileage and a bit more space. Yes, I thought so. Despite a huge evolutionary leap, the Tahoe still doesn't have what it takes to lure gas-conscious Americans back into their trucks." - The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Sunday, February 10, 2008 - Email to a friend

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What do you think?

Road Test: Chevrolet Tahoe
Read User Comments

Chevrolet has finally taken steps to cut emissions on some of their vehicles, hence the largest Hybrid SUV; the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. Unfortunately, the hybrid has not been released nation wide, so I took a Chevrolet Tahoe LS out for a ride. What I found was a rather large SUV that was dwarfed only by the Chevrolet Suburban in size but not in heart. The 4.8L V-8 supplied the power and the 17" wheels and tires supplied the grip to send me happily on my way.

Chosen Model Trim:

The Chevy Tahoe is available in a myriad of trim options. The LS is the base model which starts at $34,995 and the LTZ is the higher end model which begins at $45,680. In between are the LT1,LT2, and LT3 trims which price in between, depending on the options chosen. As with all Chevy SUV's the Tahoe is also available with a Z71 off-road package. The Tahoe is available with either a 4.8L V-8 which is standard on the LS 2WD model only. The rest are equipped with a 5.3L V-8 with the exception of the Hybrid which is powered by a 6.0L Vortec V-8.

Exterior & Interior features/comforts:

The Tahoe LS model that I drove was truly stripped down. There was however a slight body kit that included a front and rear fascia, step bars, grill inserts and tinted windows, all of which were standard. The driver's seat is very comfortable and the six-way power seat provided a luxury that was not expected. The LS also had dual climate zones which would keep all 9 people that could fit in this ride comfy. The second and third row seats fold down and open up over 100 cubic feet of cargo space.

Driving Experience:

The Tahoe is a rather large vehicle so the 295 Horsepower V-8 is essential to pleasurable driving, and it had a definite fun factor. The four speed automatic transmission worked well and the dual exhaust purred when the throttle was opened up. My tester, and all models, are equipped with a plethora of airbags, a reinforced steel safety cage, four-wheel antilock disc brakes and numerous other safety features.

Summary and My Opinion:

The Tahoe LS was a very comfortable full-sized SUV. It had power, comfort and room galore. Achieving 14 city and 19 highway mpg, the Tahoe is average in fuel economy. The Hybrid should achieve almost 7 miles per gallons better. With competition from the Hummer H3 and the Nissan Pathfinder, the Tahoe is not alone in size, power and options, yet it pulls away in comfort and, with the new hybrid, friendliness to the planet.

User Comments

2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Review discusses a competitive SUV.

Friday, July 25, 2008

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2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Review