New Vehicle Review

Redesigned for 2000, this Chevrolet full-size SUV looks a lot better than its earlier models. All you have to do is park it beside an older model Tahoe, and the differences are more than dramatic.

In fact, when I was showing the vehicles, side-by-side, to a friend, she was amazed. "They don’t even look like they are related", she said. "The one is so boxy and squared off, while the 2000 is contemporary, sleek, and modern looking."

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

The good news is that the redesign is also equally evident inside the 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe.

There’s plenty of storage inside, the gauges are easy to read, and all the knobs and buttons you need to touch are within fairly easy reach. And, the ride is smoother and plusher than earlier models. The nice leather seats make it feel richer too. Again, given the choice of choosing a Tahoe or an Escalade (the Cadillac of SUV’s) with money being no object, I’d race to buy the Tahoe.

I would be even more enthusiastic about the ride, had it not been for a peculiar vibration that I felt throughout the Tahoe at varying speeds. We thought it was probably an alignment or tire issue rather than being symptomatic of the Tahoe. Never the less, it was annoying.

Also annoying was wind noise around the driver’s door, particularly as I would ride over bumps of varying size. It felt as though the Tahoe frame would shift just enough to misalign the door. Again, annoying.

The 2000 Tahoe sports a new V-8. The Vortec 5300 SFI gasoline engine gives this SUV plenty of power. I never felt in need of a boost when merging onto the expressway or passing.

The towing package is rated at 9000 pounds. Even with a full load inside and out, I don’t think this V-8 will huff and puff.

Here are some other thoughts about the 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe.

With the third row seat, seating in the 2000 Tahoe increases from six to nine.

However, as you might suspect, room in that last row is more likely to be comfortable for children or very small adults. I wouldn’t call it claustrophobic, but I would call it cramped. Getting to the third row is no charm either.

The other drawback to the third row seating was storage. You have room for a couple of suitcases (upright) or some other small bags. But, the only way you have actual cargo space is to fold the seats down. The back row also can be removed, but folding them down is the easiest choice.

Otherwise, the Tahoe was equipped as you would expect with such things as four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, daytime running lights, front and side impact air bags, child security rear door locks, and a theft deterrent ignition system.

As part of the preferred equipment group, the 2000 Tahoe we tested also had GM’s OnStar.

I really liked the Tahoe, whose brother (or sister if you like), is the GMC Yukon.

However, despite GM’s leap forward with the Tahoe, they still have some room for improvement. Please, GM, let’s get the Escalade up to speed. Oh, uh, excuse me, I couldn’t help it. Okay, so, we give the Tahoe 3-tires and 1-spare rating.

If you’re in the market for an SUV, be sure to check it out. The Tahoe competes with the Ford Expedition, the Lincoln Navigator, the Toyota Land Cruiser, and the Dodge Durango. Uh, forget the Escalade! (I couldn’t help myself)