While recent consumer tastes have been moving towards "smaller" and "more fuel efficient", the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe still stands out as a top pick in the full-size SUV segment for those who need space and/or serious towing abilities.
Top attributes of the Tahoe include an attractive cabin, comfortable ride, smooth powertrain, seating for up to nine passengers, and a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds (4wd).
For 2009, most Tahoes models have a new six-speed automatic transmission that improves fuel economy. And there's also a new optional engine, a 6.2 liter V8 that produces 395 horsepower.
Other new features include standard third-row seats for all models, real-time traffic information with the navigation system, an upgraded OnStar system, an integrated brake controller, Bluetooth connectivity, heated and cooled front seats, and a blind-spot alert system.
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is available in four trim levels including the base LS, midlevel LT, upscale LTZ, and the Tahoe Hybrid.
Even the base LS is very well equipped with features that include 17 inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, a 40/20/40-split bench front seat with built-in storage compartments, OnStar telematics, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, an MP3-capable CD player with an auxiliary audio input, a 50/50-split bench third-row seat, and a trip computer.
The LT1 model adds foglamps, front bucket seats and a turn-by-turn navigation feature for the OnStar system. The LT2 adds remote vehicle start, six-disc CD changer, power-adjustable pedals, tri-zone automatic climate control, and rear park assist.
The more upscale LTZ trim adds premium leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, eight-way driver seat adjustments, Bose audio system, 20 inch alloy wheels, heated second-row bucket seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, a locking rear differential, and GM's Autoride air suspension.
The major stand-alone options include navigation with real-time traffic, rearview camera and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. The Tahoe LTZ has an optional Side Blind Zone Alert system that uses radar to detect vehicles in the blind spot. And the tow package also includes a trailer brake controller this year.
There's also an off-road suspension package with specially tuned springs and shock absorbers, a heavy-duty locking rear differential, 18 inch all-terrain tires, a high-capacity air cleaner and front tow hooks.
There are three V8 engines and two transmissions used in the Tahoe. Both rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) choices are available.
Standard on the 2WD Tahoe LS is a 4.8 liter V8 engine with 295 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. A 5.3 liter V8 that produces 320 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque is optional.
All other Tahoes are equipped with a standard 5.3 liter V8 and a 6.2 liter V8 that outputs 395 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque is optional on LTZ models.
The 4.8 liter V8 is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the other two engines are matched to a six-speed automatic.
Gas mileage for a 2009 Tahoe with the 5.3 liter engine and four-wheel drive is 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. These results are actually above average for a traditional full-size SUV.
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid comes with a 6.0 liter V8 engine with an electric motor and produces 332 horsepower. It's paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Hybrid's maximum towing capacity is 6,200 pounds.
The Tahoe Hybrid delivers similar city and highway gas mileage performance because it's able to accelerate up to approximately 25 mph on electric power alone. Fuel economy is 21 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for a rear-wheel-drive hybrid. The 4WD model gets 20 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.
Full-length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes and stability control are standard safety features in all Tahoes. And in government crash testing, the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe was awarded a perfect five stars for both frontal and side-impacts.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Tahoe Prices:
Chevy sales have been weak for months, evidence of a continuing poor economy and an especially weak car buying trend. This has allowed for some outstanding deals to be had right now in this very soft car market. Here's some pointers on how:
How To Buy A New Tahoe At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Chevy Tahoe, here's a technique that will show you the best way to buy one at the best possible price, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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