Conservative styling means the Tahoe doesn't stand out, but it is an attractive truck. It shares much in common with the Suburban and the Silverado pickup.Pull door handles are easy to use. At the rear, there's a choice of a traditional hatch with a flip-up window or panel doors, also known as barn doors or cargo doors. Choosing between them is a matter of lifestyle and personal preference. Cargo doors are standard on the base Tahoe and optional on the LS and LT models; cargo doors are more convenient when towing and for other truck chores, and they make it easier to control a dog. The traditional hatch is made of aluminum for light weight; being able to open just the glass is often more convenient when loading groceries or outdoor gear, especially since it can be operated with the keyless remote. One annoyance on our Tahoe: The doors were programmed to lock every time we shifted into Drive; when we'd stop, get out, walk to the back and open the hatch, the alarm would sound. The automatic locking feature can be turned off by the dealer.
Tahoe's interior is comfortable, user-friendly, and attractive. Step-in height is lower than it is with pre-2000 models, making it easier to climb in and out. Controls are mounted within easy reach. Visibility is very good through big windows. It's comfortable up front with nice cloth or leather seats, well-designed switchgear, and map lights that can be aimed. The cupholders are nicely designed and there's a place for a sunglasses case or wallet. Radio buttons are big with pre-set tone controls for each station, so you don't have to adjust the bass and treble response when you flip from an AM news station to rock, country & western or classical. Double visors with extenders keep the sun out of your eyes. Three power outlets in front and one in back deliver electricity for accessories. It's also quite comfortable in the second row. Separate rear audio and heating and air conditioning controls are available. Cupholders are close by no matter where you're sitting in the Tahoe. A pair of map lights flanks each dome light on the second and third row, a great feature when traveling or accessing gear. Folding the second-row seats down provides enormous cargo capacity, useful for outdoor activities and home-improvement weekends. Folding the second-row down is easy; headrests stay in place. The Tahoe is most comfortable with four or five passengers, but it can seat seven with its third-row seat (available in the LS or LT versions, but not with the Z71 package). Getting in and out of the third row isn't easy, and once back there, it's uncomfortable for an adult. The seat height is low relative to your feet, sort of like sitting on the floor. So if you think you'll be using that third row on a daily basis, then step over to the other side of the showroom and take a look at the Suburban. The Suburban is far more practical than the Tahoe for carrying six or seven people on a regular basis. In terms of flexibility, however, the Tahoe's third-row seats comprise one of the best designs in the business. They can be quickly folded and flipped out of they way. Better yet, they're easy to remove: just fold down, flip up, grab the release handle, and roll them out on their wheels. They're not light, but one person can remove each of the two seats. Storing them in the garage is a good idea as it opens up more cargo space. This leaves room for five people and lots of cargo. There's plenty of room back there for a big dog. Fold down one of the second-row seats and he can walk up and put his head on your shoulder. Throw a rubber mat over the cargo area and you have a serious cargo area. Reinstalling the third-row seats is a snap. |
