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2007 Chevrolet Tahoe: Still Ahead of the Pack
You heard right. We’re talking about the 2007 Tahoes, and they are at your dealer, right now, ready to roll. Talk about getting a jump on the competition. Well the new Tahoe is busting off assembly lines and is the first of GM’s next generation, full-size SUVs to be introduced. The master plan from GM calls for an all-new fleet of its big boys for ‘07, so we thoroughly checked out the Tahoe, as it is our first taste of what’s to come from GM down the road.
In the U.S. today, 6.5 million people own a full-size SUV. Of that, 62% own a GM brand. The Chevy Tahoe has been the best-selling full-size SUV since 2001, and it accounts for 26% of full-size SUV registrations.  Why dig into the number game? Because it sheds light on why the Tahoe was introduced first, and all that is at stake in keeping GM’s market share in the full-size SUV segment.
GM came strong both inside and out with the new Tahoe. At first glance, the Tahoe looks sharp and sleek. With stylish full-wrap fascias, tight interior and exterior gaps, and a more steeply raked windshield, the Tahoe really looks like a best seller should. The Tahoe’s stance is also wider, which gives the front a great look, especially with the color-matched front fascia extending down so low. Add the optional 20” polished aluminum wheels and you’re in business (17s are standard). Rounding out the exterior is a more linear body style with a squared off liftgate and rear. The rear fascia complements the styling of the front well and adds to the Tahoe’s overall lower and wider look.
Inside is where GM’s 2007 models will leave their ancestors’ plagued pasts behind. As evidenced by the Tahoe, GM has finally put some thought, attention and money into their interiors.
 Stepping into the Tahoe was actually surprising. Overall, the interior looks great – a night and day improvement over the ‘06 model. Our test vehicle was equipped with touch-screen navigation, rearview camera system, rear power lift-gate, remote start, heated front and second row seats, and a handsome new audio system surrounded by attractive burl wood-look accents. In fact, all Tahoes include a six-gauge analog cluster, dual-zone climate control, greater interior space and a quieter cabin. While driving, the seats were very comfortable and occupant space is abundant. Though considerable effort was put into noise-dampening measures, our test drive revealed a steady whistling from wind noise at speeds above 55 mph. With the Tahoe’s three rows of seats, all including the optional 3 rd row can be ordered bucket or bench and the second row seats have available power-release fold and tumble capability.  This means that with a touch of a button, the right or left (depending on button pressed) split seat will fold out of the way to aid passengers climbing into the 3 rd row or to increase storage. My biggest gripe with the interior is that this new generation Tahoe fails to add fold-flat 3 rd row seats. Unlike the Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer and several minivans where the rear seats fold flat into the floor, the Tahoe’s must be physically removed and stored. Additionally, the Tahoe’s new audio system, though looking much better than the GM systems of old, lacked the refinement of sound I hoped for. All models do have MP3 capability and an auxiliary jack for iPods.
 
A real plus for the Tahoe is its upgrade in power for ‘07. The new Tahoe boasts an aluminum 5.3-liter engine that manages 320-horsepower with 340 pound-feet of torque. This will be the only engine available until mid-year when Chevy plans to add more engine choices.  Tahoe also leads the way in full-size SUV fuel economy. The ‘07 claims bragging rights for being the first full-size SUV to break the 20 mpg barrier in EPA fuel economy. This is accomplished with help from the V8’s Displacement on Demand technology, which shuts down four of the eight cylinders when not needed.
For a full-size SUV, ride and handling of this next generation Tahoe is impressive. Though a bit longer, the ‘07 is much more refined behind the wheel than the ‘06, giving it a smaller feel. Handling is more on par with that of a smaller SUV as well. Overall, the Tahoe’s ride is smooth, acceleration is strong and steering is predictable. Adhering to all requests for power, I found the 5.3-liter V8 confident and steady in its delivery. My long test drive of the Tahoe was pleasant and fairly effortless – not something easily said in such a large vehicle.
Overall, it looks like GM engineers have taken the steps to keep the Tahoe’s reign at the top alive and well. The combination of 320-horsepower and high fuel economy is a great plus. Add to that a host of redesigned features, new interiors and a comprehensive list of options, and the entire new line of GM’s full-size vehicles will be worth watching. |
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