First Impressions of the Chevrolet Tahoe for 2008
Several things can be said about the Chevrolet Tahoe series: including the polarizing reactions most buyers have towards their truck. The eight-cylinder engine is at the heart of the strong emotions, it is powerful for its class and delivers a large amount of torque.
Chevrolet Tahoe Engine Specs
The restyled Tahoe LT is equipped with a 5.3-liter eight-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Vortec engine is mated to a General Motors four-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2007 version.
For the 2008 Tahoe, the fuel configuration is a electronic SFI, using gasoline for fuel. A fuel-injected MFI configuration. The gas tank holds 26.00 gallons.
The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Tahoe uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. Load balancing is provided by coil front springs and coil in the rear.
Vehicle Statistics
The dimensions of the Tahoe LT are 79.00 inches wide by 202.00 inches long. It sits 76.90 inches off the ground. It seats a standard six passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 116.00 allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $34,630 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $31,686. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Sport Utility.
The standard warranty period for the Tahoe is 36 months, or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is standard in the sport utility market.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2008 Tahoe gets 20 - 21 miles/gallon on the highway and only 15 - 16 in the city. This is subpar for a sport utility truck.
What We Think of the Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2007 model began the promise of the Chevrolet Tahoe. The 2008 expanded on this success and has proven to be a strong seller in most markets. Even with strong competition from other manufacturers Chevrolet hopes that the Tahoe LT will continue to be a profitable vehicle.
Good article. At first I felt like I needed to refute your review of the Chevrolet Tahoe, but after further reflection I can see your point of view. Perhaps my personal Tahoe LT is an abberation. What is everyone else’s experiences?
I’m definiately wanting a flex fuel sport utility. Since the Tahoe isn’t, is it a good buy?