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Large SUV; Built in USA
  • 4-door wagon
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $13,000 – $48,200*


2007 Chevrolet Tahoe


2007 Chevrolet Tahoe


2007 Chevrolet Tahoe

Pros:
  • Acceleration (5.3-liter V8)
  • Cargo room
  • Control layout and materials
  • Quietness
  • Ride
Cons:
  • Fuel economy
  • Steering/handling

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 (2007-12) value among large SUVs.

Overview

Additional power, fresh styling, and several new features highlighted the 2007 redesign of Chevrolet’s large sport-utility vehicles: the Tahoe and larger half-ton Suburban. Also redesigned for 2007 were the GMC Yukon and Denali, and the Cadillac Escalade, all of which shared this basic design. Each of these GM SUVs had more cargo space and rear passenger room than the 2000-2006 generation, despite little-changed exterior dimensions.

Compared to Suburban, the Tahoe was about 14 inches shorter in wheelbase, 20 inches shorter overall, and had nearly 30 cubic feet less cargo volume. All models had a liftgate with opening glass. Tahoes came in LS, LT, and luxury LTZ trim. Each offered buyers a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, which could be left engaged on dry pavement and included low-range gearing. Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors were standard.

A 295-horsepower 4.8-liter V8 was standard on the rear-drive LS Tahoe. A 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 was optional on that model and standard on all other Tahoes. The 5.3-liter engine had GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Sole transmission was a four-speed automatic. Standard on Tahoe LTZs was GM’s Autoride suspension, which included load-leveling and automatically adjusted firmness based on road and driving conditions. The LT edition also was available with Chevrolet’s Z71 Off-Road Suspension Package.

Passenger capacity ranged from five to nine, with two- and three-place seating available for any of the three rows. Curtain side airbags that covered all seating rows and included rollover deployment were standard with LTZ and available for LS and LT models. Second- and third-row seats folded down, and the third row was removable. As in GM’s other large SUVs, a spring-release option could flip the second-row seats to provide third-row access. Additional new features included a rearview camera, power liftgate, power running boards, and rear obstacle detection. GM’s OnStar assistance was standard. Also available were a navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, heated first- and second-row seats, and DVD entertainment. In addition to the GMC Yukon, Chevrolet competed against the Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.

Yearly Updates

2008 Tahoe
A new Tahoe Hybrid with a gasoline/electric powertrain debuted for 2008. In the Hybrid, a 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8 teamed with an electric motor to propel the vehicle. That Tahoe could run on either gasoline or battery power, or both, depending on driving conditions. As the vehicle came to a stop, the gasoline engine normally shut itself off. The Tahoe Hybrid required no plug-in charging, and could be driven in the usual manner.
2009 Tahoe
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe got a new 6-speed automatic transmission as well as additional safety and luxury features. Heated and cooled front seats were a newly standard LTZ exclusive. Other new-for-2009 features included a wireless cell-phone link and a backup camera that displayed in the rearview mirror on and on the optional navigation system screen.
2010 Tahoe
The 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe lineup offered fewer engines but otherwise saw no major changes. V8s of 4.8 and 6.2 liters are no longer offered.
2011 Tahoe
The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe was largely unchanged.
2012 Tahoe
Only minor equipment changes marked the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe.
2013 Tahoe
Tahoe largely stood pat for 2013.
2014 Tahoe
For 2014, the base LS model gained standard power-adjustable pedals, remote engine start, rearview camera, and rear-obstacle detection. Otherwise, Tahoe was unchanged pending a revised version for the 2014 model year.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive

Tahoes have been available with a choice of two V8 engines: 4.8-liter making 295 horsepower, or 5.3-liter rated at 320 hp. Both mate with a four-speed automatic transmission. Tahoes came with either rear-drive or four-wheel drive. The Tahoe Hybrid, introduced for 2008, uses a 332-hp, 6.0-liter V8 coupled with an electric motor. Note that the EPA rating for the Hybrid shows the same estimate for both city and highway driving. V8s of 4.8 and 6.2 liters were dropped for 2010.

ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.8/293
Engine HP 295
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 305
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic 14/19
ohv V82
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.0/364
Engine HP 32
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 367
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic 20/20 22.8
ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.3/325
Engine HP 320
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 340
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic 14/19 14.1

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years. 2. V8/electric.

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.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 Tahoe LT w/4WD

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 3
30%
Ride Quality - 7
70%
Steering/Handling - 4
40%
Quietness - 7
70%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Front - 9
90%
Room/Comfort Rear - 8
80%
Cargo Room - 10
100%

Other

Value - 9
90%

Total: 70

Specifications

4-door wagon
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
116.0 202.0 79.0 77.0 5537
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
108.9 26.0 9.0
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
40.3 38.5 41.3 39.0
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 Tahoe 4-door wagon

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 5
100%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Coolant leak
Description: Coolant (antifreeze and water) may leak from near the rear of the vehicle due to a clip in the coolant line connector breaking. (2005-07)
Coolant leak
Description: A drive belt pulley may rub a hole in the radiator vent hose resulting in a coolant leak and possible overheating. (2007)
Oil leak
Description: An oil leak at the oil pressure sensor may cause the low oil light to come on and oil level to become low. (2006-07)
Oil pump
Description: Sticking oil-pressure relief valve may cause low or no oil pressure. (2013)
Audio system
Description: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car’s speakers whenever the vehicle’s power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2007-08)
Windows
Description: Power windows may be misaligned and move slowly or not at all. (2008-14)
Wipers
Description: The one-piece wiper blades may streak when driving at slow speeds because they do not press firmly enough and should be traditional, bridge style blades. (2007-08)
Wipers
Description: The rear wiper may get damaged or ripped off in automatic car washes due to the design of the wiper blade stop; a redesigned part is available. (2007)
Electrical problem
Description: Numerous electrical problems (door locks, power windows, speakers, courtesy lights etc.) may quit working because a wiring harness gets damaged by the seat belt. (2007)
None
Description: The backup (rear vision) camera quits working due to an electrical connector coming loose. (2007)
None
Description: The DVD monitors in the front seat headrests may quit working because the video feed cable comes loose requiring installation of cable clamps. (2003-08)
None
Description: Engine may not start because of exhaust or intake valve leakage. (2009-14)

Recall History

2007-09 Tahoe equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system
Description: A short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. This may cause other electrical features to malfunction, create an odor, or cause smoke, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge.
2007-11 Tahoe
Description: Airbag inflators may rupture during deployment and metal fragments might strike passengers.
2007-14 Tahoe with aftermarket Marathon seat covers
Description: Aftermarket Marathon seat covers could interfere with deployment of side airbags.
2009 Tahoe and Hybrid
Description: The fuel system control modules may have a faulty seal, possibly allowing water to seep into the module. This could cause a short, illumination of the service engine soon lamp, setting of diagnostic trouble codes, or the engine may be hard to start. Dealers will install a new fuel system control module free of charge.
2011 Tahoe
Description: The rear axle cross pins were not properly heat treated and could fracture and become displaced within the rear axle. Should the pin shift out of position, it could create an interference condition and cause the rear axle to lock. The driver may not be able to maintain directional control of the vehicle and a crash could occur without warning. Dealers will install a new rear axle cross pin free of charge.
2011 Tahoe
Description: The intermediate steering shaft attaching bolts may not have been tightened to the proper specification. This could allow the joints to separate, and the driver could experience loss of steering increasing the risk of a crash. GM dealers will inspect and ensure that the intermediate steering shaft bolts are tightened to the proper specification. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about July 13, 2011.
2011-12 Tahoe
Description: Turning key in ignition switch may be difficult. If stuck in Start position, key may suddenly snap back to Accessory position and cause loss of engine, steering and braking power, as well as airbag deployment.
2013 Tahoe
Description: Faulty Park lock cable and steering column lock may result in vehicle shifting out of Park when the ignition key is removed or in Off position. The vehicle may shift out of Park without application of brake pedal. Either scenarios could result in the vehicle rolling.
2013-14 Tahoe
Description: The chassis control module could fail resulting in an engine stall.
2014 Tahoe
Description: Bolts in rear brake calipers may not be sufficiently tightened resulting in reduced braking performance.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on August 2, 2016.
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