2008 Chevy Tahoe Review
Price Range: $7,895 - $13,395





+50
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Handsome cabin with fine fit and finish, comfortable ride, smooth powertrain, can accommodate up to nine passengers.
Cons
- Third-row seat doesn't fold flat and must be removed, overly soft suspension makes for less than precise handling.
What’s new
After last year's redesign, the Chevrolet Tahoe sees minimal changes for 2008. The 40/20/40-split front bench seat gets built-in storage compartments; side curtain airbags are made standard across the board; and OnStar turn-by-turn navigation is standard on the LT and LTZ trims.
Edmunds says
Although it may give up a few points in third-row seat convenience and handling acuity, the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe remains a favorite choice for a large SUV thanks to its handsome, comfortable cabin and strong towing ability.
For sale near Omaha, NE
135 listings
- $7,895fair price$304 above market
- 259,046 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, personal use only
- 8 Seats, 14 City / 19 Hwy MPG
- Sonny Gerber Auto Sales (4 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Third-row seating
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Omaha, NE
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GNFK13098J118261
Stock: 118261
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-08-2025 - 167,591 miles
- 1 accident, 6 owners, personal use only
- 7 Seats, 14 City / 19 Hwy MPG
- CarHop of Sioux City (82 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Third-row seating
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Sioux City, IA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GNFK13008J224033
Stock: A3602-15
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 11-17-2024
Vehicle overview
For families who need a spacious, comfortable and rugged full-size SUV, Chevrolet's full-size entries have long been the go-to vehicles. With their stout, truck-based underpinnings, these vehicles are ideal for towing and off-roading duties. But until recently, their interiors were seriously lacking in terms of build and materials quality, compared to most rivals. That all changed with last year's redesign that introduced a handsome, well-tailored cabin as well as improvements to ride and handling.
Last year's revamp also brought a deceptively aerodynamic body that contributes to a quiet highway ride. And although it's not exactly nimble, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a couple of feet shorter than its otherwise similar Suburban big brother and easier to handle in the cities and suburbs.
The Tahoe's closest rival in the traditional, full-size SUV segment is the Ford Expedition. In a recent comparison test, we ranked the Tahoe second to the Ford. Certainly, both are capable and spacious utes and each offers a few advantages over the other -- the Chevy's got a nicer interior but the Ford's fold-flat third-row seat is much more convenient on a daily basis and its fully independent suspension provides tidier handling. But it's mostly a matter of splitting hairs, as both of these full-sizers are quite capable.
That said, we encourage families to consider their needs carefully. Those who merely need room for kids and cargo will likely find GM's large crossover SUVs, the GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook, or the Mazda CX-9, equally capable and more fuel-efficient. However, for shoppers truly in need of maximum towing capacity and/or a fair degree of off-road capability, the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, as well as its GMC twin, the Yukon, makes a solid case for itself.
Performance & mpg
A pair of V8s sees duty in the Tahoe, and either way the lone transmission is a four-speed automatic. One may also choose between rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The 2WD Tahoe LS model comes with a 4.8-liter V8 with 295 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. All other Chevy Tahoes pack a 5.3-liter V8 (320 hp and 340 lb-ft); it's optional on the 2WD LS. Fitted with the 5.3, a 4WD Tahoe posts 2008 EPA fuel economy estimates of 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway, figures that are above average for the traditional full-size SUV segment. Properly equipped, a Tahoe can tow up to 8,200 pounds.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control and full-length side curtain airbags (with a rollover sensor) are standard on all Tahoes. In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration frontal crash testing, the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe scored a perfect five stars for the driver and front passenger.
Driving
Even a 4WD 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is fairly quick, getting to 60 mph in just 8.6 seconds. However, the Tahoe doesn't feel nearly so quick when carrying a full load of passengers or cargo. After all, there are only so many ways to trick physics: This is a 5,500-pound truck, after all. Braking is about average for this pudgy segment.
A soft ride is the Tahoe's greatest dynamic asset, though the price paid is a somewhat rubbery quality to the steering and handling. But although the Tahoe doesn't feel particularly nimble around corners, its relatively compact 39-foot turning circle makes it fairly maneuverable in the city. When towing a heavy trailer, the Tahoe performs admirably. It's able to maintain speed up long grades, albeit with some gear hunting and rather loud exhaust noise.
Interior
In contrast to past Chevy trucks, the newest Tahoe boasts attractive, high-quality materials and tight build quality. Control layouts are simple, and even the navigation system is easy to use. Depending on how you equip your Tahoe, up to nine passengers can be transported, making it a class leader in that respect.
At 109 cubic feet, the Tahoe's maximum cargo capacity bests that of the Nissan Armada and Dodge Durango, and is about the same as a Ford Expedition. Although the Tahoe's second row is available with a power-folding feature, the third-row seats must still be removed manually. We've tried it, and trust us, those seats are a bear to remove.
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe models
The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that's available in two main trim levels -- base LS and more upscale LT -- and a variety of packages. The volume-seller LS should please most folks, as it comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 40/20/40-split front seat with built-in storage compartments, OnStar telematics, satellite radio, full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, an MP3-capable CD player and a trip computer.
Standard equipment on the LT includes foglamps, color-keyed exterior trim, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, front bucket seats with a console, and a "Turn-by-Turn" navigation feature for the OnStar system. Three major equipment groups are available on the Tahoe LT -- LT2, LT3 and LTZ. The LT2 package adds leather upholstery, a six-disc CD changer, power adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starting and rear parking assist. Stepping up to the LT3 package adds heated front seats (with 12-way driver adjustment) and a Bose audio system. The top-dog LTZ package also features 20-inch alloy wheels, heated second-row seats, a locking rear differential, power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding second-row seats, a third-row seat and the Autoride rear air suspension.
Major stand-alone options for the Chevrolet Tahoe include a navigation system, a rearview camera and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. The third-row seat is also an à la carte extra on sub-LTZ Tahoes. For buyers who plan to drive their Tahoe off-road on a regular basis, Chevrolet offers an off-road suspension package with differently tuned springs and shock absorbers, 18-inch all-terrain tires, a heavy-duty locking rear differential, a high-capacity air cleaner and front tow hooks.

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Compare 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Nebraska
$220/mo for Tahoe LS
Tahoe LS
vs
$211/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#27 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$623/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
1.14x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
17.4%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Chevrolet Tahoe Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Best Vehicle Ever Owned
5 out of 5 starsSteve, 04/13/2010
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
This 2008 LTZ is our second Tahoe. Our first was a great all around truck and this is even better. We need a versatile 4wd that can be used to haul our boat and take our kids sports teams all over Northern California. The ride is excellent, quiet, smooth and the transition to 4WD is seamless. We also own two Toyota SUVs (kids car's) and a Honda Accord. Over the years we've owned … Porsche's, Volvos, Mazdas and Nissans, but the Tahoe is the best overall period. On our first Tahoe we had over 100K miles and the people that now own it have 126K on it. it still looks and drives like new. We've never had any maintenance issue's with either Tahoe. On a recent trip to Salt Lake we averaged 22 mpg.
Dependable and solid
4.88 out of 5 starsexitseven, 06/02/2014
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
This is my second Tahoe. My first was a 1996 and had over 225000 miles on it. I have put 80000 miles on this one. It still looks and rides like it was brand new. The power door lock on the passengers side does not work which is a common complaint with this model. I hope Chevy does something about this in the form of a recall.
The third row seat should be an option. I removed it the first … day I owned it, however the tracks make it hard for flat objects to fit in the rear. I got it with the Z71 package. Has great towing capacity and the gas mileage is better than with my old Tahoe.
The automatic door locks and other automatic features should be abandoned.
Vibration Issues
4 out of 5 starsRANDY NABAL, 09/20/2010
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
I purchased my truck for $50K loaded. I have been complaining of vibration issues since day one. I have owned 2 Yukons and wanted a change and purchased a Tahoe. The only difference was this truck had 20" tires/rims. The sole of problem. I have had several places tell me the rims and tires are O.K. after Autoway changed them on my truck 7 times. They had the truck the first 3 weeks I … owned the vehicle. If you put the 17" tires on the truck it does not vibrate. I have been told that the drive shaft is not balanced but GM will not do anything about it. I now have 63K miles on the truck and can't stand to do highway speeds especially with customers in my truck. Everyone but GM notice problem.
Nothing but Issues No more GM products
2.88 out of 5 starspeternew30, 05/07/2014
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
Have owned many Tahoes, Suburbans. Have to say that the 2007-2009 models are nothing but issues. Rear window defrost electric leads fall off, door lock on front passenger side stopped working. Transmission required rebuild (under warranty) Noticed missing 2-3 quarts of oil between changes. All within <3 years old. After 3 years the engine light came on many times which the remote start … doesn't work when engine light is on. Dealer said the Cat Converters where going bad but a month later said the codes said communication issues. O2 sensor bank 2 needed replaced, And very bad design on headlight, try pricing a simple headlight and running light bulb replacement at your local dealer $200-$300.
2008 Tahoe Highlights
LS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $34,630 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $220/month |
Seating | 6 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.9 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Tahoe include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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