2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Preview

The Tahoe Paradox

Big and brawny, the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe is a well-mannered brute. A redesigned model is coming next year. In the meantime, it remains a capable workhorse with a sophisticated suspension.

Along with its stretched sibling, the Suburban ($38,765), Chevrolet's full-size Tahoe was popular long before the SUV craze of the last decade. Initially called the Blazer and intended primarily as a work truck or for use by outdoor enthusiasts, the vehicle was first offered only as a two-door model. A four-door version introduced in 1995 when its name was changed to Tahoe. The two-door continued until the vehicle's most recent redesign in 2000.

Now the Tahoe comes only with four doors. It shares platforms and power trains with its GMC twin, the Yukon ($36,405), and is also available in a more luxurious version as the Cadillac Escalade ($53,850).

With old-school boxy styling riding on a 116-inch wheelbase with a 198.8-inch overall length, the Tahoe is truly a large truck. Yet it handles better than expected and is more tractable than the competing Ford Expedition ($33,455). This is due in large part to the independent torsion-bar suspension up front and multilink coil spring array in the rear, along with a turning radius that's tight for a truck.

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The Tahoe has ample space for five, but the optional third-row seat ($360) is really only suitable for children. Consider the Suburban or a minivan like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna if you need room for more than five adults.

Improvements for 2005 include a new rear lift gate with lift-up rear glass, and the latest version of the optional OnStar communications/safety system ($95 for the equipment and $695 for one year of service). The full-size SUV's side-sill assist steps have been redesigned for improved aerodynamics and durability. A more powerful standard alternator is included, and new standard and optional rear axle ratios are offered on both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models.

Other updates include the Z71 off-road performance package now available on rear-drive models; a new touch-screen navigation system; and 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels as part of the LT trim package.

The standard "Premium Smooth Ride" package offers good comfort over the road, while an optional Autoride suspension includes variable shock dampening and rear load leveling to further refine the ride. Tahoe's four-wheel-disc antilock brakes have "Hydroboost" braking to provide reserve-braking power on demand. This feature and the Autoride suspension help when towing heavy trailers.

The standard power plant is a 4.8-liter V8 engine that offers 285 horsepower and does a reasonable job of moving this behemoth around. A larger, 5.3-liter V8 that provides 325 hp with added low-end power is optional ($800) and is the motor of choice for hauling or towing heavy loads. Both are mated to a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission that comes with a "tow/haul" mode to help optimize shifting for maximum power while towing.

Four-wheel-drive models get GM's Autotrac system, which has full-time four-wheel-drive mode. For added road holding, rear-drive models can be fitted with a traction-assist system that includes a locking rear differential. Both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions can be equipped with StabiliTrak yaw control for increased stability over a wide range of road conditions.

Creature comforts include standard tri-zone climate control, a CD/cassette stereo, a leather-wrapped, tilting steering wheel and a tire-pressure monitor. Front-side airbags ($350), rear-seat DVD video system ($1,295) and adjustable brake/accelerator pedals ($120) are among the many options, in addition to the previously mentioned third-row seating.

Expect few changes for the 2006 edition as General Motors brings a redesigned fleet of full-size SUVs to market next spring (several months ahead of their originally planned release dates) as early-2007 models.