For 2007, GM introduced a brand new version of the Chevrolet Tahoe known

During the SUV craze, the Tahoe was one of North America's most popular SUVs. (Photo: Chevrolet)

internally as GMT 900. The previous generation GMT800, which lasted from model years 2000 to 2006, has suddenly become an attractive choice for the pre-owned SUV shopper not afraid of high prices at the pump. Many people who own this truck are quick to lavish praise on their vehicles, and it's worth exploring the model's history to find out what makes them such a content bunch.

At the decade's beginning, Chevrolet rolled out a completely redesigned Tahoe SUV. It was a huge leap forward from the outgoing model, offering improvements in all areas of the vehicle, the biggest of which was the all-new hydroformed frame. Gone was the soggy feeling chassis in favour of one that offered a whopping 400-percent percent increase in rigidity. This paid huge dividends in the driving dynamics department, allowing a vehicle capable of taking the family anywhere in comfort combined with the positive feeling of secure handling. In fact, Chevrolet offered a unique police package version of the Tahoe designed for high-speed

Two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, two-doors, four-doors... there's a Tahoe for almost every need. (Photo: Chevrolet)

pursuits. This improvement in on road behaviour was no doubt aided by the clean sheet redesign of the rear suspension. Replacing antiquated leaf springs was a sophisticated five-link design. Those who use their trucks for towing should rest assured that the Tahoe didn't shy away from heavy labour, capable of hauling 10,500 lbs (4,763 kilos) with the rare but range-topping 6.0 liter V8. When the going got rough, these trucks could hold their own, offering capabilities much higher than most owners needed.

The Tahoe was offered in a variety of body styles, ranging from a 2-door two-wheel drive model to a 4-door four-wheel drive. A bevy of options existed for drivetrain and body style configurations, including the choice of engine. Two different 8-cylinder powerplants were offered.

Towing and hauling is almost never an issue with so many available V8s. (Photo: Chevrolet)

Lower models were mated to a 4.8-liter V8 making 275 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, with upper trim examples making use of a 5.3-liter V8 that made 285 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The lone transmission available was GM's venerable 4-speed automatic, known for its smooth shifts and ratios that made the most of either V8's output.

The Tahoe was lauded by families who relished the ample space and comfort the truck provided. It would happily swallow all passengers and requisite gear for road trips, and was equally at home hauling home improvement materials with its cargo hold configured for maximum space. Occupant safety was a priority for Chevy, including features like four-wheel ABS, plus front and side airbags. The interior was generally a nice place to be, especially in LT equipped Tahoes. Boasting rich leather seats and a multifunction Driver Information Centre, LTs topped the model range. LS and Base models offering a less comprehensive list of features rounded out the other trim choices; those looking for a bargain or a second vehicle to tow or haul will appreciate the lower asking prices they demand.

The Tahoe was very well received for the first two years of this generation;

It's what you'd call an elegant workhorse. (Photo: Chevrolet)

the first mid-cycle updates did not come until model year 2002. The Premium Ride suspension, which had been an option in the past was added to the standard equipment list, while LS models benefited from the addition of a power driver seat, HomeLink transmitter, fog lights and heated mirrors.

2003 was a big year for the truck, as Chevy decided to add quite a few goodies to already well-equipped Tahoes. Most significant was the option of Stabilitrak stability control on 5.3 V8 equipped models - a first for GM's family of big SUVs. The centre console and instrument panels were both revised and second row bucket seats became an option. Chevy focused heavily on in-vehicle entertainment, offering satellite radio, a DVD player and a crisp sounding Bose stereo. Safety features received equal attention, with the Tahoe gaining dual stage airbags, adjustable pedals and three-point safety belts for all second row passengers. In 2004 Chevy was focused on updating some of the mechanical bits. Two-wheel drive models would now get traction control when equipped with the locking differential. The '04s had brakes with Hydroboost, which saw stopping power increase with less pedal effort. Different 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels were also introduced

Facelifted models are the most handsome of the breed. (Photo: Chevrolet)

.

As good as sales were, this model generation was in its twilight. For the last two years of its production span, Chevy made only minor changes to the Tahoe as it was beginning to focus its efforts on the GMT 900 platform. Model year 2005 saw the addition of a touch-screen navigation system, and all models got an overhead rear liftgate. MY 2006, the final year of production for this generation, received steering wheel audio controls and OnStar telematics standard. Stabilitrak and a Tire Pressure Monitoring system also became standard on all models.

And so ends the history of an illustrious generation of Tahoe. From 2000 to 2006, it progressively grew into a segment leading truck that had buyers turning out in droves. One thing's for sure, used SUV buyers needing to haul a lot of people, cargo, camp trailers or boats should seriously size up the Tahoe as it is fully capable and then some. Due to reasonably good reliability, rugged dependability and all of its other abilities, Chevy's outgoing Tahoe is a solid bet.

Specifications:

• Body Type: 5-door SUV
• Layout: front engine, RWD (opt. 4WD)
• Base Engine: 275 hp, 290 lb-ft of torque, 4.8L OHV V8
  
• Optional Engine: 285-hp, 325 lb-ft of torque, 5.3L, OHV V8
  
• Transmission: 4-spd auto
• Curb Weight: 5,050 lbs (2,291 kg) 5.3 V8 w/4WD
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Towing Capacity (min-max): 3,221 - 3,992 kg (7,100 - 8,800 lb)
• Ground clearance: 10.6 in. (269 mm)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 4.8L 2WD: 16/21 mpg (17.6 / 13.5 l/100km) 5.3L 4WD: 15/18 mpg (18.8 / 15.7 l/100km)
• Competitors: Dodge Durango, Ford Expedition, GMC Yukon, Nissan Armada, Toyota Sequoia
• Web Site: www.gmcanada.com