The Tahoe has been around since ‘94, and has been one of the best selling vehicles since. If you're in the market for a used model, there's a few things you should know about before you purchase one. Here's how the Chevy Tahoe has evolved over the years to give you a better idea on which model year is best for you.
Key takeaways
- The Tahoe aims to be one of the first when it comes to safety by regularly adding more safety features to the vehicle.
- The fourth generation adds some of the most features, making it more modern, as well as still being reasonably priced given its age.
- A diesel was added in the fifth generation, giving you a new way to drive while getting better mileage on the highway, making this a good road trip option for you and your family.
First Generation (1995-2000)
The Tahoe came out swinging and was Motor Trends Truck of the Year in 1996. This was thanks to the Tahoe being released with a longer 4-door version.
The 2000 model brought a few new packages with one of them upgrading to a trim today. The first package was the Tahoe Limited. This was based on a 1996 concept that never saw the light of day due to various reasons outside of Chevy's control. They did ultimately bring it out, making a unique trim in the Tahoe lineup.
The other package is the Z71, this brought some off-roading features to the lineup. Coming with 4WD, as well as Bilstein shock absorbers, underbody skid plates and 16-inch Alcoa five-spoke six-lug polished aluminum wheels.
Second Generation (2000-2006)
While the Z71 and Limited were coming out around this time, the rest of the lineup saw a redesign. This redesign saw a more aerodynamic body, as well as new seats and a new dashboard.
Helping bring safety to the forefront of the list, Chevy added side-impact airbags for the front row and automatic headlamp controls. Some other changes for 2000 were a power-operated sunroof, and a new 9-speaker audio system.
2002 brought some changes, mainly for the Tahoe LS. These were heated exterior mirrors, perfect for those who live in colder climates, and a HomeLink universal transmitter. The Base Tahoe was axed, and premium ride suspension is made standard across the board.
For 2003, the Tahoe was ahead of the curve when it came to the LATCH federal safety standards that were going to be fully implemented in 2005. Making this one of the safest vehicles on the market for its time.
Third Generation (2007-2014)
This generation went all in when it came to looks. The new, more angular design of the Tahoe made the vehicle look more up-scale, the faux wood on the interior made it look even better, while still being affordable.
Thanks to the addition of Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation, the Tahoe comes with better mileage than the years before it.
Fourth Generation (2015-2020)
Continuing to be one of the best selling vehicles on the market, the Tahoe was named fastest-selling vehicle in February 2014 when this model came out.
To help reduce weight where it isn't necessary, the Tahoe now comes with an aluminum hood, and liftgate. The new design of the body helps improve aerodynamics in turn giving the vehicle better fuel economy.
This generation also added a ton of power points to help charge devices, as well as giving power to tools, and other devices that use 110-volt outlets.
2014 saw the new Z71 debut at the Texas State Fair, with it came the Texas Edition. This was done to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the assembly plant in Arlington, Texas. If you're someone who likes the Lone Star state, or simply wants something that may be a bit more unique in the North East, you can look for one of these editions.
The Texas Edition is available on the LT, and LTZ trims. With it came a maximum trailer package, 20 or 22 inch wheels that are trim dependent and a “Texas Edition” package.
2015 came with some of the best tech that the Tahoe has seen since it was released. This year came with Siri capabilities, as well as 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi that helps keep devices connected. If you find an LTZ from this year, you'll find that it comes with a hands-free power liftgate.
2016 adds some safety features. These were lane keep assist, as well intelliBeam headlamps. This year's infotainment system came equipped with Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay features.
Fifth Generation (2021-Present)
The fifth generation took the Z71 leaving its spot as a package and gave it a spot in Tahoe’s trims. The rest of the lineup saw a new 10.25-inch touchscreen now as a standard feature on the lineup.
If you're planning on towing, then the 9 camera display will surely help. A Duramax diesel engine is also an option for the first time, producing 277 horsepower, and 460 lb-ft of torque. Car and Driver notes that the new diesel engine is “Smooth and refined” as well as having “impressive highway fuel economy” while having a “minimal price increase”
Final Thoughts
If you're wanting to get a used Tahoe, then come see us here at Car2Sell. Even if you want something else, we'll be sure to have something that you want!