2009 Chevrolet Tahoe
by Jim Prueter -03/2009

One vehicle that can do it all

Tahoe, the best-selling full-size SUV in the country, was completely redesigned for 2007, and exhibits few visible changes for either 2008 or 2009. To say the previous generation Tahoe was well past its freshness date would be charitable.

Aside from its attractive sheet metal, the most notable changes included a more spacious interior with refined materials and a better fit and finish, a more powerful 5.3-liter V-8, available power-folding second-row seats and added safety features.

The folks at Chevrolet have been diligent in boasting about improved “best-in-class” fuel economy thanks to an active fuel management system that shuts down four cylinders when they’re not needed. Our top-of-the-line four-wheel-drive LTZ model tester, equipped with the optional 6.2-liter 395-horsepoer V-8, was rated at 12 miles per gallon in the city, 19 highway. A 5.3-liter V-8 with 320 horsepower is standard. Two-wheel-drive models earn a 16/22 mpg rating. A 26-gallon gas tank is standard. A six-speed automatic transmission comes with the larger V-8 engine.

But in the real world our tested mileage was worse — much worse — with the trip computer registering just over 17 mpg in freeway driving and 12.2 mpg around town.

Tahoe is offered in four trim levels: base LS, LT, LTZ and hybrid. Even the base LS is well-equipped with full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, CD player with MP3 compatability, luggage rack, cruise control, tilt-wheel steering column and 17-inch bright aluminum wheels. The LT actually comes in three levels: LT1, LT2 and LT3. LT1 adds steering wheel-mounted audio controls, bucket seats with console, foglamps and color-keyed exterior trim. The LT2 adds leather seating, a six-disc CD changer, power adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starting and rear parking assist. The LT3 adds side-curtain airbags, heated front seats with 12-way driver adjustment and a Bose audio system with XM satellite radio.

The LTZ adds 20-inch alloy wheels, heated second-row seats, power rear liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding second-row seats and the Autoride rear air suspension.

Base prices range from $37,915 to $51,405 with numerous options including four-wheel drive, navigation and entertainment systems, chrome wheels and other package options, along with seating for up to nine occupants.

Outside, the Tahoe has rounded sheet metal and a noticeably steeper raked windshield. Front and rear bumpers have been styled into the design unlike the separate bolt-ons in the previous generation, giving it a cleaner exterior style.

The high hood features two bulges that add to the stylish looks. The sides are slab-like and thankfully remiss of cladding. Large headlamps flank the wide split grille. Base models have black exterior moldings, while LT models add body-colored moldings and fog lights.

Our LTZ tester featured chrome side and rear molding. An available Z71 off-road package adds larger color-keyed fender flares and a chrome front grille insert.

Inside, Chevy designers have thankfully cleaned up the nightmarish dash of the previous generation Tahoe. It now looks more car-like with clean lines and improved fit and finish. There isn’t necessarily any less plastic in the new Tahoe, but the execution is much better, with accent colors, soft touches and plastic wood that actually looks convincing.

A huge center console stores just about everything; all gauges and controls are in the right place and easy to use.

Depending on which Tahoe model and trim level you select, seating can accommodate anywhere from five to nine passengers. The third row seats can be removed; they fold, but not flat, and there isn’t a power folding option like there is in Ford Expedition. Don’t expect much knee room in the third row.

The second row does come with a power folding option, which is operated by a button along the inside roof pillar and performs flawlessly.On two-wheel-drive Tahoe models, the standard engine is a 4.8-liter V-8 rated at 290 horsepower. The only transmission is a four-speed automatic — disappointing because five and six-speed transmissions are now the norm. Behind the wheel, we found our 6.2-liter 395 horsepower Tahoe to be quick from the light, when passing on the interstate or when negotiating steep inclines on mountain roads.

Thanks to the new aero design, wind noise is minimal and the cabin is exceptionally quiet, even at highway speeds. The ride was smooth and the suspension absorbed most road-surface imperfections. Cornering is what you’d expect from a big SUV, with noticeable body lean. Overall visibility is excellent, even for shorter drivers.

Safety gear includes all the expected belts and airbags plus an anti-skid, anti-rollover system. Optional safety features include three-row head-curtain airbags that stay inflated in rollovers and are triggered in violent front impacts.

Tahoe earned the highest possible five star rating in frontal impacts and a three star rating for rollovers from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Overall, Tahoe has a lot going for it and is a remarkable improvement over the previous generation. When it comes to full-sized SUVs, it is still a compelling choice, although not significantly ahead of the competition. Still, we think it’s an excellent choice for those who need to haul large numbers of people, for boaters, campers and snowmobilers.

Few vehicles combine this kind of utility while traveling down the highway with roominess, comfort, quiet and safety. The gas mileage is hard to live with, but if you skip the optional 6.2-liter V-8 and keep a feather touch on the gas pedal, the Tahoe fills the bill for most automotive wants and needs.

But big truck based SUVs have fallen out of favor, giving way to more efficient crossover vehicles that come in sizes equal to or larger than the Tahoe. We think most will find GM sibling vehicles like the Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave to be equal or better choices.