2007 Chevrolet Tahoe Lt 4x4The redesigned Chevrolet Tahoe almost won SUV of the Year. The Tahoe's styling looks more cohesive than before, with integrated bumpers and improved panel gaps that make it look like it could be an Escalade. Inside, its dash no longer looks like it belongs on a work truck. And, the Tahoe is extremely livable with features including: navigation (again, Ford and Chevy have good systems right now); satellite radio; auto-ride suspension; a rearview camera; rear-seat video entertainment; power liftgate; head curtain side airbags for all rows; and more.
The third row was actually comfortable for grownups, but only because the two captain's chairs in the second row of our tester made them easier to access and took up less space. Granted, the third row seats weren't as cush as the second row's, and legroom was more limited, so they are probably better suited for kids during road trips. The rear seats don't fold flat, although you can remove them to make room for cargo (not an ideay one of the carpenters. And boy, doesn't that business owner live large.
Our tester was equipped with the Vortec Max 6.0L V-8 and four-speed transmission. It ran even with the Ram on the quarter-mile and stayed barely ahead of the Ram and F-150 in fuel economy. Its exhaust note was noteworthy whether the engine was idling (more like loping) or under load. The Sierra came with navigation-again, it's a toss up over whether the GM or Ford system was the best. Refinement of the interior tracks with the Silverado and Avalanche as far as quality and design, but it certainly takes interiors to the next level. Its seats topped the leather seats in the Silverado, Avalanche, and F-150 as far as comfort and their ability to smooth the rough edges of its leaf-sprung rear end. The pricey Bose audio system doesn't sound as good, or at least as loud, as the Titan's Rockford Fosgate setup-a shame when you consider its diversity of media playback options (CD changer, iPod jack, DVD in the back) and the fact that it's a $2,500 option. The exterior is certainly improved, but it is not as distinctive as the Silverado's and gets blown away by the upgraded Denali version.
Honestly, though, if you want a Sierra, then go for Denali. It's the ultimate expression of the Sierra; offers an exclusive powertrain and unmistakable appearance; and starts at $40K and ramps up sharply from there. That's a lot of dough, and if that makes you nervous, then you might want to consider sticking with a Chevy