In spite of their classification, too many sport utility vehicles fall short of their namesake. Too big or rugged for “sport,” too small for “utility.vDon’t count the Tahoe among this group. Thanks to versatile traction control systems, a strong power train, flexible cargo capacity and a smart suspension, Chevrolet’s Tahoe is equally at home climbing mountains or cruising the macadam.
Since its makeover in 2000, Tahoe buyers have gravitated towards the LS and LT trim level offered in both the 2 and 4 wheel drive models, so this year the base trim package has been discounted. A number of features have been added to the now standard LS version, including 6 way power front seats, foglamps, heated outside mirrors, rear heating and window defogger, self dimming driver’s mirror, side steps and a HomeLink universal transmitter.
The real story, however, is in the hardware. The Tahoe LS comes standard with the Vortec 4800 V8, while LT buyers enjoy the Vortec 5300 V8 as standard equipment. These engines offer 275 and 285bhp, respectively. Not a huge difference unless you plan to two big toys, when the 5300’s extra 35 lb.-ft. of torque must be factored in. the 5300 V8 has also been tweaked this year to accommodate both regular and 85 percent ethanol content fuel. Both engines were backed by the reliable 4L60-E electronically controlled 4 speed automatic transmission.
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