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2016 Chevrolet Tahoe

Chevrolet Tahoe OEM Exterior Primary Photo
OEM Interior Primary
OEM Exterior
OEM Exterior
OEM Interior
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Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

Select a Trim
Select a Trim
2016 LS 4x2
most popular
Price:   -  From $47,000
2016 LS 4x4 Price:   -  From $50,000
2016 LT 4x2 Price:   -  From $52,030
2016 LT 4x4 Price:   -  From $55,030
2016 LTZ 4x2 Price:   -  From $61,740
2016 LTZ 4x4 Price:   -  From $64,740

Overview

The Chevrolet Tahoe is one of GM's crown jewels: a big, comfortable, extremely capable classic SUV that is consistently and deservedly the bestseller in its class. If you're into serious hauling -- an off-road trek to a hunting cabin, carrying bulky cargo, pulling a trailer, loaded for a cross-continent family adventure vacation -- the Tahoe will handle it all with broad-shouldered ease and all-American style.

What's New for 2016

The Tahoe was thoroughly refreshed for 2015 so changes are minor. An Enhanced Driver Alert package is available on the LS line; among other details it includes a forward collision scanner and lane-keeping system. An aircraft-style heads-up display is available on the LTZ, and Apple's CarPlay iPhone-integration software is bundled with the infotainment system on all three trim levels.

Chevrolet Tahoe

Choosing Your Chevrolet Tahoe

The Tahoe is among the last of its kind -- a full-size truck-based body-on-frame SUV -- but it has also evolved to be perhaps the best of its kind as well. Driving a Tahoe is something of an experience in an age of rationally-sized front-drive sedans and car-based CUVs, given that it weighs nearly three tons and is larger than some big-city apartments. All that size and bulk translates to serious capability: seating for up to nine, nearly 95 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the seats folded, and the ability tow up to 8,500 pounds.

Power comes from a 5.3-liter V8 that sends 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque to a six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel-drive with a limited-slip differential is standard, and four-wheel-drive is a $3,000 option available across the trim lines. GM's powerplant team has managed to coerce the Tahoe into returning decent fuel mileage: cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing contribute to EPA estimates of 16 mpg city and 23 (RWD) or 22 (4WD) mpg highway.

Those heavy-duty roots provide a solid foundation for the massive amounts of comfort, convenience and safety gear that is either standard or available on the Tahoe. What looks like a truck on the outside is actually a very refined, secure, well-appointed vehicle inside and throughout.

Standard equipment for all Tahoes includes automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, a sound system including SiriusXM and HD radio, preparation for trailering, and GM's OnStar telematics system.

The Tahoe is available in three trim levels:

Chevrolet Tahoe

LS

The LS shares the same mechanical parts and superior capability as the other trim levels but leans more towards sensible comfort than outright luxury. Seats are upholstered in cloth and the infotainment system is a bit simpler -- although phone Bluetooth and a rear parking assistance system are still standard. A number of functional and dress-up options, including a lane-keeping system and a choice of alloy wheels, are available. And for maximum passenger flexibility the front and middle captain's chairs can be replaced by bench seats with three seatbelts, allowing for a total of nine passengers.

Chevrolet Tahoe

LT

The LT brings both a long list of upgrades and greater availability of options. Leather seats are now standard, and the stereo sings through Bose speakers. The liftgate is power-assisted. Bluetooth compatibility is upgraded to the MyLink system. Lane-departure sensors and power-adjustable pedals are now included. Available packages include the Z71 off-road suite, the Sun, Entertainment and Destinations package (sunroof, navigation, rear-seat DVD player), and the Texas Edition package (navigation and special wheels and emblems; Lone Star State residency not required).

Chevrolet Tahoe

LTZ

The LTZ brings it all and then some. The leather seats are heated and ventilated. The second and third rows of seats fold at the touch of a button, and the liftgate has a hands-free function. Navigation and a Bose Centerpoint speaker array are included in the infotainment system and blind-zone scanners are built into the power folding mirrors. The chassis wears a set of GM's amazing Magnetic Ride Control shocks which provide an unbelievable blend of confident handling and smooth, well-controlled ride. Among the few significant options are adaptive cruise control, the Sun, Entertainment and Destinations package, the Texas Edition package, and power-retractable side steps.

CarsDirect Tip

Given how it provides a massive boost to off-road and slippery-weather capability at a fair price and a minimal fuel-economy penalty, the 4WD system is a must. Past that the smart money is on the LT; it strikes a great balance between the elemental LS and the pricey LTZ and offers the most useful range of options, including the Z71 off-road package.

Get your price on a Chevrolet Tahoe »

author image
Automotive Editor
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Expert Review

Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Contributing Editor

Offering excellent performance from a fuel-efficient V8 and plenty of room for up to nine passengers, the 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe is an SUV the whole family can love.

Pricing and Equipment

The 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that provides seating for up to nine. Available in three trim levels, all models employ a 5.3-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is available on all Tahoe's at an up-charge of $3,000.

  • The base LS model includes 18-inch wheels, a rearview camera, fold-flat second- and third-row seats, rear parking assist, a remote vehicle starter and more. Pricing starts at $47,000.
  • The mid-level LT trim adds features like leather-appointed first-and second-row seats, a Bose premium sound system, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and a power liftgate. Pricing starts at $52,030.
  • The top-tier LTZ bumps up the luxury quotient with 12-way heated and cooled front seats, power-release second- and third-row seating, and pushbutton start. Extra safety features include blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. There are 20-inch wheels and LED running lamps. Pricing begins at $61,610.

Performance Pros

Chevrolet Tahoe

The Tahoe’s well-regarded 5.3-liter V8 engine produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. A highly-praised six-speed automatic transmission sends the ample power to the rear or all four wheels.

  • A wider track and improved body mounts equate to a stable ride quality absent from many body-on-frame SUVs. On the highway, the Tahoe is smooth and comfortable, and the suspension works to keep the 5,545-pound beast in check on bumpy roads and city streets.
  • Thanks to cylinder deactivation, which eliminates four of the V8’s cylinders under light load or cruising conditions, the Tahoe earns a respectable 23 mpg highway. City numbers of 16 mpg are also good for a vehicle that comfortably seats up to nine. Considering that vehicles of this size and power earned EPA ratings in the low teens not too many years ago, the Tahoe’s fuel consumption numbers are impressive.
  • Handling is better than expected from an SUV of this size and capability. The Tahoe's electric steering offers good feedback.
  • The Chevrolet Tahoe offers towing up to 8,300 pounds when properly equipped.

Performance Cons

The Tahoe is still a massive vehicle and drives like one. That equates to fuel-thirsty trips around town and lots of unused cargo and seating except for the largest of families or folks who need so much covered air-conditioned space.

Interior Pros

Chevrolet Tahoe

Thanks to last year’s redesign, the 2016’s interior boasts a modern design complemented by soft-touch plastics. While I wouldn’t call the base Tahoe luxurious, it certainly has an upscale feel and is a wonderful vehicle to spend time in.

Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system features a 7-inch color touch screen and is among the easiest to use and functional of any I’ve tested over the past year. I’ve always appreciated GM’s OnStar system and the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi makes it even better.

Interior Cons

  • Third row seating is tight compared to the rest of the vehicle -- climbing in and out is quite awkward.
  • Cargo space is plentiful, but not as ample as some of the Tahoe's competitors.

The Most Pleasant Surprise

  • The excellent power and smooth ride of the 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe truly surprised me.
  • Even from a distance, this massive SUV is strikingly attractive -- it can catch attention in a crowded street full of newer vehicles.

The Least Pleasant Surprise

Chevrolet needs to redesign access to third-row seating. The obstruction limits the usefulness of a third row even more than the seat's limited legroom.

The Bottom Line

The 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe offers excellent performance from is highly-respected V8 while keeping up to nine occupants nice and comfy with its roomy, well-appointed interior. Fuel economy is good considering the size and utility, but smaller families may want to consider more compact options.

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
5.3L V-8 / 355 HP / 383 ft.lbs.
Transmission
6-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD
Drive Type
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
16 / 23 / 19 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
8 / 9
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
5.3L V-8 / 355 HP / 383 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
16 / 23 / 19 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Short And Long Arm
Rear Suspension
Rigid Axle Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Full-size Steel / Full-size
Fuel Tank
26.0 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$100
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
94.7 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
Exterior Length
204.0 "
Exterior Width
80.5 "
Exterior Height
74.4 "
Front Headroom
42.8 "
Rear Headroom
38.7 "
Front Legroom
45.3 "
Rear Legroom
39.0 "
Front Shoulder Room
64.8 "
Rear Shoulder Room
65.1 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
5,355 Lbs.
Wheel Base
116 "
Turning Radius
19.5 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
18.0 " Polished Aluminum / 22.0 " Silver Aluminum / 22.0 " Chrome Aluminum / 20.0 " Polished Aluminum / 22.0 " Steel / 17.0 " Painted Steel / 22.0 " Machined W/painted Accents Aluminum / 22.0 " Black Aluminum / 22.0 " Machined Aluminum / 22.0 " Silver W/painted Accents Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone / Metallic Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated, Convex Spotter Driver
Bumpers
Body-colored / Front Body-colored With 2 Front Tow Hook(s) / Black
Grille Moldings
Black W/chrome Surround / Chrome
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel / Stainless Steel With Polished Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
8 / 9
Seat Trim
Cloth
Front Seat Type
Bucket / 40-20-40 Split-bench
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
(8-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
(8-way Power)
Front Armrests
(8-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
60-40 Split-bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Chevrolet Mylink Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Clock, Seek-scan / Clock / Chevrolet Mylink Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan / Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
6
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Tilt
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Deep
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
5 / 4
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Forward Collision Alert Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keep Assist Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Intellibeam Auto High-beam
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Rear Park Assist Rear
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Major Components Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
24 Months / 24,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation
72 Months / 100,000 Miles
Accessories Months

Used 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe for Sale

4 vehicles found within 50 miles of your area
Chevrolet
LT
Color: Black
Price

$25,447

Mileage

90,294 mi

Map location icon

Blasius South (32 mi)

Phone: (203) 377-6000
Chevrolet
LTZ
Color: Green
Price

$28,977

Mileage

79,258 mi

Map location icon

Balise Hyundai of Fairfield (30 mi)

Phone: (877) 551-3722
Chevrolet
LT 4x4
Color: Black
Price

$29,995

Mileage

79,743 mi

Map location icon

Cruz Autos LLC (47 mi)

Phone: (551) 224-8443
Chevrolet
LTZ Sport Utility 4D
Color: Black
Price

$36,495

Mileage

59,729 mi

Map location icon

M & A Motors Inc. (12 mi)

Phone: (631) 423-1212
See All Used Car Listings

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