By Tom Crosby
AAA Carolinas

General Motors made major changes for 2007 to the larger GMC and Chevrolet sport utility vehicles, creating more internal cargo and passenger space, with improved interior materials and workmanship. The Chevrolet Tahoe shares the same platform as the GMC Yukon and the Chevrolet Suburban, a global full-size platform with a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and a newly designed upscale interior.

The Tahoe has a smaller wheelbase than the Suburban, is also about 20 inches shorter and costs about $3,000 less, depending upon the trim selected. Tahoes come in three trims – LS, LT and LTZ (with various equipment packages), either 2- or 4-wheel drive and three different engine choices. All use the reliable Hydra-Matic 4L60, 4-speed automatic transmission. Our test drive was the seven passenger, 4-wheel drive K1500 Tahoe LT with the LTZ equipment group that added nearly two-dozen upscale features, making it Tahoe’s top-of-the line choice. The LTZ uses active fuel management technology that seamlessly switches between four and eight cylinders, depending upon the thrust needed, to conserve fuel, although savings are not dramatic unless highway speed limits are strictly obeyed.

The 5.3-liter engine is capable of using E85 fuel (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline), although E85 will reduce already low mileage per gallon at least another 20 percent. Towing power ranges up to 8,200 pounds. Outside, the windshield is more sharply raked and the roofline smoothed for better aerodynamics. Adding to a sportier look are a bulging dome hood, flared wheel coverings and a wraparound fascia.

Handling is excellent at lower speeds with some roll in turns. The ride is quiet on the LTZ’s 20-inch tires and all seating positions are comfortable with ample head and legroom. Safety features include rollover protection, StabiliTrak stability control, a stiffer box frame and head curtain air bags providing 360-degree perimeter safety system. A remote vehicle starter, rear camera ($250 extra) and rear parking alerts quickly become driver addictive. (A remote start allows cooling and heating before you enter the vehicle but it cannot be driver without inserting the key).

Inside, large gauges, easily reached and seen, make for a friendly dashboard. Many functions occur on the 8-inch Navigation screen - a $2,250 option. Standard features that enhance the interior ambiance and versatility include power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seat, plentiful stowage areas and cupholders, power lift gate, power adjustable pedals, heated leather front seats and a BOSE premium speaker system with more than two dozen possible audio settings. Wood trim, low-gloss materials and chrome accents keep the cabin looking upscale.