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Chevrolet Tahoe - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe ranks 1 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 48 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Tahoe, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe has a comfortable cabin and is easy to drive for a large SUV. It should appeal mainly to buyers who need its outsized seating and towing capabilities. Along with its hybrid counterpart, it's the U.S. News Best Car for the Money in the large SUV class.

Most reviewers agree that for families who need plenty of seating, towing and foul-weather or off-road capability, the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is a compelling choice. Its comfortable and inviting interior is a reviewer favorite, and many say the Tahoe is surprisingly light on its feet for a large SUV. The Tahoe was last redesigned in 2007, and the 2009 Tahoe is almost identical to the 2007 and 2008 models

Despite being an excellent full-size SUV, the Tahoe isn't for everyone. Its brawny off-road and towing capabilities mean that it uses a lot of gas. Also, its size can be a turn-off for some buyers. If you only need the Tahoe's seating capacity and not its towing abilities, consider a large crossover like the Ford Flex or Chevrolet Traverse. If you need the Tahoe but want something a little greener, check out the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid.

General Motors, Chevrolet's parent company, has recently declared bankruptcy. While the company says that business should continue as usual, the bankruptcy could add a layer of uncertainty for GM buyers. However, those who are able to stomach the uncertainty may be able to get a great deal on a new Chevrolet. Check out What GM's Bankruptcy Means for You to answer any questions you have before buying.

Because of the economic uncertainty, General Motors has been offering significant discounts on all vehicles, particularly their large SUVs. If your need for a Tahoe is stronger than the current economic uncertainty, now may be a great time to buy. Check out this month's Best Chevy Deals to see what discounts are available

• "The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe continues to be one of the best full-size SUV values on the market." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The fully gasoline-powered Tahoe and Yukon (there are hybrid models, too; see Hybrids market segment) are solid, comfortable, and very capable large SUVs, let down only by a poorly packaged third row. New XFE editions use slight modifications to beget meager fuel-economy gains." -- Car and Driver
• "More than ever worthy of serious consideration for buyers still in the market for a big SUV despite rising gasoline prices." -- Newsday
• "I've spent much time in the Tahoe over the years -- in the woods and out on America's highways -- and it is a perfect complement to a summer camping trip or a winter run to play in the snow." -- San Jose Mercury News
• "The goodies come at a price. . . No wonder GM makes so much profit on this vehicle." -- Chicago Tribune
• "The Tahoe is one of my favorite big SUVs" --  Orlando Sentinel

Tahoe Performance - 8.8 (Very Good)

Most reviewers say that, while it's no sports car, the Tahoe is easy to drive, despite its size. Car and Driver says, "These are nice trucks to drive, with solid power, decent steering, and a good ride." continue

Tahoe Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe's exterior styling is a strong point. Motor Week says, compared to earlier models, the Tahoe has "vastly improved aerodynamics, style, and fit and finish, with a power dome hood and seamless wrap-around front fascia with jewel-like headlamp clusters." continue

Tahoe Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)

Though some buyers may remember lackluster passenger cabins from Chevrolet's past, Motor Trend says the Chevrolet Tahoe's cabin is "nothing short of stunning," and most reviews second that take. Though a third row offers extra seating capacity, reviewers say those way-back seats are uncomfortable.  Also, competitors have third row seats that fold flat, maximizing cargo room, while the Tahoe's bulky third row seats must be taken out to for more cargo space. continue

Tahoe Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

In government crash tests, the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe received good test scores. Side curtain airbags are standard on all Tahoe models and cover all three rows of seating, and stability control is standard. continue

Tahoe Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Chevrolet has backed the 2009 Tahoe with five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. continue