This big SUV, which is built on a full-sized pickup chassis, seems like a throwback in a world where nearly every other SUV is now based on a carlike unibody structure. It's a virtual twin of the GMC Yukon and essentially a shorter version of the Chevrolet Suburban, with a 20-inch shorter length and about 24 cubic feet less cargo room.
For 2015, the Tahoe, Suburban, and their GMC counterparts received a major update, with chiseled looks, a nicely finished interior, the latest technology, and slightly better fuel economy. At over $60,000, however, our typically equipped LT test vehicle competes with many other luxury SUVs that offer a better driving experience and about the same utility.
The first thing you notice when driving the Tahoe is that it is exceptionally quiet, a lot like a good luxury car. Handling is sound and responsive enough, with no excessive body lean, but the feeling of bulk is ever present. The Tahoe rides stiffly and jiggles a lot at low speeds. Choosing the top Premier trim improves the ride significantly and pays dividends in handling as well, but it adds a lot to the base price.
With 355 hp, the 5.3-liter V8 ought to deliver plenty of gusto, but it doesn't, making the Tahoe feel underpowered. One consolation is substantially improved fuel economy at 16 mpg overall, which it pretty good for a vehicle of this size.
For more of a boost, consider the available 420-hp 6.2-liter V8, and 10-speed automatic transmission.
On the plus side, you could almost move into this spacious coach. With the second-row captain's chairs, accommodations are sumptuous for four people. The third-row seat, however, is tight and best left for kids.
Cargo volume behind the third-row seat is miniscule, although a new power-folding feature can fold that seat down to open it up and make a flat load floor. A new power-release for the second-row captain's chairs makes access to the third row easier, too. Even though you no longer need to remove the third-row seat to open up the cargo space, it still doesn't fold into a well. So the load floor is higher than it could be, robbing some cargo space.
The interior is plush, with lots of soft-touch padded surfaces edged with nice stitching, which gives it a tailored, hand-sewn look. The cockpit looks modern with controls that wrap around the driver and a legible and easy-to-understand touch screen that manages the audio, climate, phone, and navigation systems. If it weren't for the '70s-like high-effort, long-reach column shifter and foot-operated parking brake, the interior would look modern enough to justify the Tahoe's price.
Cabin storage includes a seemingly endless supply of large and small bins, open and covered. Up to six USB ports are available, plus five 12-volt power ports and a 110-volt outlet.
While the Tahoe is very quiet, somewhat luxurious and utilitarian, many alternatives ride more comfortably and have smoother, more responsive powertrains. If you need more space, however, the Suburban (or GMC Yukon XL) makes a far more convincing purchase.