Authenticity Guaranteed!

The Chevy Tahoe is an authentic SUV, not a wannabe. I knew I wanted a Chevy Tahoe as soon as Chevrolet redesigned them in 2000. The lighter, trimmer, less-boxy appearance really sold me on it.

I purchased a used 2002 Chevy Tahoe LT in November 2003 from a Chevrolet Dealership. I didn't consider anything else other than a Tahoe and searched the internet for about 2 weeks for the best price. (Okay, I actually looked at GMC Yukons, too...but they are basically the same vehicle as the Tahoe--with different badging). For years I had driven sportscars and was going to be replacing a 1999 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Convertible and was really unsure if I was ready for the big, 'settle-down type' of vehicle. I couldn't resist when I checked insurance rates and found that I'd be saving about $300 per month on that alone. The dealership gave me an awesome deal...drive out for $25,500. The 2002 Tahoes at that time were going for around $28,000 TT&L everywhere else. When I test drove the vehicle I was amazed at the spaciousness and how high up off the road I sat. There is a nice big locking console in the center of the captain seats. Cupholders throughout, (8 to be exact). The cabin is roomy and quiet, though at high speeds you can hear some wind noise rushing past the big, heated, side mirrors. It's especially bad if the windows are open any at all. The ride is smooth and there is no road noise or vibration. Bumps and potholes are no problem at all...I was very impressed. The rear heat and a/c is great, it can be controlled from the driver's seat or the second row. There is also a tape player and headphone hook up for the second row passengers. The fold down center console in the second row has 2 cupholders and a flat place where my 5 year-old draws (this could be dangerous, I know: kids===>crayons===> leather, but she knows better). :)

The Tahoe I bought has the LT trim which features a Vortec 5300 V8 engine which is capable of handling both regular and 85 percent ethanol-content fuel, electronic climate control, leather, and captain seats. Mine is equipped with the optional AutoRide which automatically controls shock damping on a continuous, real-time basis to smooth bumps in the road. It also helps when towing something or if you have adults in the second and third row seats because it will keep the rear of the vehicle from being pushed down. I haven't had to use this feature yet. My Tahoe is equipped with heated seats. There are high and low settings and they heat up rather quickly. Very nice on cold days and they helped tremendously once when I got caught outside in the rain and had to meet someone for dinner. The seat actually dried my clothes on the way to the restaurant. Even the LS Trims come nicely equipped: comfortable six-way power driver and passenger seats, outside rearview mirrors with self-dimming driver-side; side-mounted assist steps; electric rear-window defogger; fog lamps; and HomeLink Universal transmitter. (Homelink enables programming of three separate electronic home functions, such as garage doors, gates and exterior house lights). Chevrolet discontinued the base model. There are only 3 models available: LS, LT, and Z71 (which offers better suspension).

Another plus about the 2002 Tahoe is that the seats are easy to maneuver around for cargo. I have the third row rear seat (optional) which features a unique 50/50 split-fold design to provide a variety of cargo- and passenger-carrying configurations. The seats can be flipped forward and stowed for more cargo room, or they can be individually and easily removed to provide a flat load surface. The seats are light and easier to use than anything on the market.

My 2002 Tahoe is also equipped with OnStar. For those not familiar with OnStar, the feature is only available on GM vehicles. The basic package for OnStar is $199 per year and basically, if you press the blue OnStar button (mine is located on the front dash panel near the radio) it will link you to a call center where you can request that they call a wrecker, or unlock your vehicle or if you need emergency personnel they can request them on your behalf. Should your airbags deploy, OnStar will be notified and will ask if everything is okay. If there is no answer from the vehicle, they will send rescue. I received an insurance discount because of the GPS and the ability for OnStar to locate the vehicle if it's stolen. OnStar also has the capabilities to unlock your vehicle if you lock your keys in it. (I've had this happen, but I was in a parking garage and OnStar couldn't ping the vehicle so they paid for a locksmith to come out and unlock it). There is a small microphone located on the inside of the vehicle just to the right of the driver's head and an antenna on the outside of the vehicle on the driver's side. OnStar has a calling feature which allows you to make personal calls from your vehicle, hands-free. With the basic service plan you are allowed 30 minutes free per month. OnStar uses the vehicles speakers for sound which is adjustable with your radio's volume knob. It is a great feature and I urge anyone in the market for a GM product to consider it if available. (Not all GM models have the option).

So far, I have had no problems with my Tahoe. The engine accelerates nicely (this coming from someone used to sportscars) and the 4-speed automatic transmission shifts effortlessly. Gas mileage is the best in it's class...about 16 mpg. Having a big SUV with a big engine is a give and take sort of thing. I don't mind the gas mileage at all. To me, the exchange is worth it and well expected. Need to do a U-turn in the road? The Tahoe's turning radius is great and you can do it.

I only have 2 complaints for the 2002 Chevy Tahoe LT and those are: on a windy day at high speeds, (60 mph, and up), the vehicle will "rock" in the wind. This has scared me a few times but it only happens when the wind is really gusty and high. The only other thing I don't like is that on the captain seats, the arm rest which raises and lowers, lowers right over the seatbelt buckle and I can feel it rubbing against it. I'm sure over time it will wear out the leather on the armrest on that spot. That being said, this is absolutely an amazing vehicle...as far as vehicles go.

I've always had 'new car fever' after purchasing vehicles in the past and I can honestly say I want to keep this vehicle as long as I can and just drive it until it won't go anymore. With Chevy's reputation for strong engines, I know I'll have this one a long time. Had I purchased this vehicle new in 2002, it would have cost me about $40,000. These vehicles are worth every cent! I simply love it!

"Tahoe is always being refined, but always remains true to its mission as a genuine sport utility vehicle," said Tahoe brand manager Steve Ramsey.