Since its inception in 1995, the Chevrolet Tahoe has been one of the most popular SUVs on American roads. And for good reason - the Tahoe and its long-wheelbase variant, the Suburban, have been the go-to SUVs for upper-middle-class families thanks to the comfort and practicality they offer.
However, the Tahoe is not without its faults. Its large size means fuel economy figures are deplorable, meanwhile maneuvering it can make you feel like a bus driver at times. That said, the fifth-generation Chevy Tahoe is undoubtedly an incredibly compelling package. On sale since 2021, it takes all the traditional positives of the Tahoe and adds modern tech and (marginally) better efficiency. For 2023, the Tahoe gets a few minor updates to help ensure its continued dominance.
2023 Chevrolet Tahoe
- Optional Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance system
- Up to 122.9 cubic feet of storage space
- Seating for up to 8
- Make: Array
- Model: Tahoe
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- Engine/Motor: 3.0-Liter turbodiesel/5.3-Liter V8/6.2-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 277/355/420 HP
- Torque: 460/383/460 LB-FT
- Drivetrain: RWD/Part-Time 4WD
- Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
- MSRP: $56,095
- 0-60 MPH: 7.3 seconds
- Power Output: 277/355/420 HP
- Incredibly practical
- New generation comes with plenty of modern tech
- More affordable than European alternatives
- Dated driving experience
- Poor fuel economy
Diesel Is Making A Comeback
When it comes to powertrains, the 2023 Chevy Tahoe gives buyers slightly more choice than before. While the previous-gen Tahoe was only available with a 5.3 or 6.2L petrol V8, for the first time since the 1990s you can now get a diesel as well. The diesel engine in question is a 3.0L Duramax turbo capable of producing 277 hp. The 3.0L diesel has a rating of 24 MPG in combined highway and city driving. For reference, both of the petrol V8s have ratings of 18 MPG in equivalent driving conditions.
Furthermore, the diesel is superior for towing. The Duramax produces 460 lb feet of torque versus the petrol V8s' 383 lbs. However, the petrol engines are significantly more powerful. The Tahoe's 5.3L V8 makes 355 hp meanwhile the top-trim 6.2L produces 420 hp. That said, for most buyers the more efficient diesel makes the most sense. It's a $995 option, however chances are you'll make that money back in fuel savings.
A Modern And Practical Interior
Inside, the 2023 Chevy Tahoe is both practical and luxurious. Although not quite as plush as its Escalade and Yukon Denali siblings, the Tahoe's interior is still a very nice place to be. Standard equipment includes electric powered front seats, a 6-speaker audio system and an 8" central touchscreen. Upgrading your trim level from LS to LT will set you back $5,500. However, doing so adds leather seats, a larger 10.2" infotainment system and an extra three speakers. Other interior options include a panoramic sunroof, memory seats and a heated steering wheel. All the latter comes standard with the Signature Plus Package ($4,325).
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is on every Tahoe trim, as is a Wi-Fi hotspot. GM's renowned Super Cruise (which enables hands-off self-driving on certain pre-mapped routes) is only available on the top-of-the-line Premier and High Country trims.
The Tahoe comes standard with three-rows and seven seats, however a front bench seat is an option on the base LS model. Although it sacrifices the center console, it's a smart choice for larger families looking for room for up to eight.
Pricing For All
Although not exactly cheap, the Tahoe is relatively affordable in entry-level LS guise. Pricing starts at $56,095 however that only gets you a very basic RWD Tahoe with cloth seats, 6 speakers and an 8" infotainment screen. Want AWD? That will be an extra $3,000. Meanwhile, LT trim (which, as mentioned above, comes with a lot more creature comforts) starts at $61,595.
The sportier Tahoe RST gets 22" gloss black alloys as standard and will set you back $64,595. Meanwhile, the more rugged Tahoe Z71 is only available with AWD and comes in at $66,195. The Tahoe Premier ($69,595) and High Country ($74,795) lie at the top of the range. Both are extremely well-equipped with ventilated leather seats, wireless charging pads, 10-speaker Bose surround sound systems and power folding rear benches. The High Country also features a head-up display.
For 2023, Chevy has introduced three new colors for the Tahoe: Sterling Gray Metallic, Silver Sage Metallic, and Radiant Red Tintcoat. Both Sterling Gray Metallic and Silver Sage Metallic are no cost options, meanwhile speccing Radiant Red Tintcoat will set you back an additional $495. The other change for 2023 is a new optional black grill with lettering in place of the traditional Chevy logo - you can have it on your Tahoe for $850.
As outlined previously, the 2023 Tahoe is available with either a 5.2L V8 (355 hp), 3.0L turbo diesel (277 hp), or 6.3L V8 (420 hp). Upgrading to the 3.0L diesel costs $995, meanwhile the price of the 6.3L V8 varies drastically depending on what trim you have selected - however, it is standard on the High Country.
The most popular Tahoe trim is the LT. That won't come as too much of a surprise as it comes with a lot of equipment yet still starts at under $65,000. For those based more rurally, speccing AWD is a must. Meanwhile, the 3.0L diesel is a clever choice if you frequently tow yet also want to save on running costs.