Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a comprehensive test drive review of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe. If you're in the market for a full-size SUV that can handle just about anything you throw at it – from hauling the family and all their gear to towing a boat for a weekend getaway – the Tahoe might just be the perfect fit. We’re going to cover everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and technology, so buckle up and let's get started!

Powertrain and Performance

Let's kick things off under the hood. The 2017 Chevy Tahoe's powertrain options are crucial for understanding its capability and driving experience. Most models come equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 engine, which delivers a solid 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. For those looking for a bit more oomph, there's also an optional 6.2-liter V8 engine that cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During our test drive, the 5.3-liter V8 proved to be more than adequate for daily driving. Acceleration was smooth and responsive, whether merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The six-speed automatic shifted seamlessly, providing a comfortable and predictable driving experience. However, if you frequently tow heavy loads or simply crave extra power, the 6.2-liter V8 might be worth the upgrade. Fuel economy is another important consideration. The 2017 Tahoe, with its 5.3-liter V8, offers an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. These numbers are typical for a full-size SUV, but they're definitely something to keep in mind if you do a lot of driving. The Tahoe also offers features like cylinder deactivation, which helps improve fuel efficiency by running on fewer cylinders when full power isn't needed. On the road, the Tahoe feels surprisingly composed for its size. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Handling is decent, although it's important to remember that this is a large SUV, not a sports car. Body roll is noticeable in corners, but the Tahoe remains stable and predictable. Overall, the powertrain and performance of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe make it a capable and comfortable choice for those who need a full-size SUV.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Moving inside, the 2017 Chevy Tahoe's interior focuses heavily on comfort and technology. The cabin is spacious, offering seating for up to nine passengers depending on the configuration. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. Higher trim levels offer features like heated and ventilated seats, which add an extra layer of luxury. In the second row, passengers will find plenty of legroom and headroom, even for adults. The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, but it's still a valuable asset for families who need to transport a lot of people. The Tahoe's interior design is functional and straightforward. The dashboard is well-organized, with easy-to-reach controls. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, although some may find them to be a bit bland compared to those in more luxurious SUVs. On the technology front, the 2017 Tahoe comes standard with features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trim levels offer upgrades like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium Bose audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and intuitive menus. However, some may find the graphics to be a bit dated compared to those in newer vehicles. The rear-seat entertainment system is a great feature for keeping kids entertained on long trips. It includes a DVD player and a screen that flips down from the ceiling, allowing passengers in the second and third rows to watch movies or play video games. In terms of cargo space, the Tahoe offers a decent amount of room behind the third row, but it's not as much as you'll find in some other full-size SUVs. However, the second and third rows can be folded down to create a large, flat load floor, which is ideal for hauling bulky items. Overall, the interior comfort and technology of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip.

Ride and Handling

The 2017 Chevy Tahoe’s ride and handling are designed to provide a comfortable and confident driving experience, despite its large size. The Tahoe utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, which contributes to its ruggedness and towing capabilities. However, this design can also result in a somewhat truck-like ride. Despite its truck-based underpinnings, the Tahoe does a good job of smoothing out bumps and road imperfections. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, and the available Magnetic Ride Control system (on higher trim levels) further enhances the ride quality by automatically adjusting the suspension damping in response to road conditions. Handling is decent for a full-size SUV. The Tahoe's steering is responsive and provides adequate feedback, allowing you to confidently maneuver through city streets and winding roads. Body roll is noticeable in corners, but the Tahoe remains stable and predictable. It's important to remember that this is a large vehicle, so it's not going to handle like a sports car. One of the Tahoe's strengths is its towing capability. With the available Max Trailering Package, the Tahoe can tow up to 8,600 pounds, making it a great choice for those who need to haul boats, trailers, or other heavy loads. The Tahoe also offers features like trailer sway control, which helps keep the vehicle stable when towing. In terms of off-road capability, the Tahoe is surprisingly capable, especially when equipped with four-wheel drive. It has enough ground clearance to handle moderate off-road terrain, and its robust construction can withstand the rigors of off-road driving. However, it's not a dedicated off-road vehicle like a Jeep Wrangler, so it's best to stick to well-maintained trails. Overall, the ride and handling of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe strike a good balance between comfort and capability. It's comfortable enough for daily driving, yet capable enough to handle towing and light off-road duties.

Technology and Features

The technology and features of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe are designed to enhance the driving experience and keep you connected on the go. The Tahoe comes standard with a range of features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trim levels offer even more advanced technology, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium Bose audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and intuitive menus. It allows you to control various functions, such as navigation, music, and phone calls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility make it easy to integrate your smartphone with the infotainment system, allowing you to access your favorite apps and services on the go. The premium Bose audio system delivers excellent sound quality, making it a great choice for music lovers. The rear-seat entertainment system is a great feature for keeping kids entertained on long trips. It includes a DVD player and a screen that flips down from the ceiling, allowing passengers in the second and third rows to watch movies or play video games. In terms of safety technology, the 2017 Tahoe offers a range of features, including forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. Other notable features include keyless entry, remote start, and a power liftgate. Keyless entry allows you to unlock and start the vehicle without using a key, while remote start allows you to start the engine from a distance, which is great for warming up the car on cold days. The power liftgate makes it easy to open and close the tailgate, even when your hands are full. Overall, the technology and features of the 2017 Chevy Tahoe are comprehensive and well-designed, making it a great choice for those who value convenience and connectivity.

What We Like

There's a lot to appreciate about the 2017 Chevy Tahoe. One of the biggest highlights is its powerful engine options. Whether you go with the standard 5.3-liter V8 or the optional 6.2-liter V8, you'll have plenty of power for hauling passengers and cargo, as well as towing trailers. The Tahoe's spacious interior is another major selling point. With seating for up to nine passengers, it's perfect for large families or those who frequently carpool. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of legroom and headroom in the first two rows. We also appreciate the Tahoe's user-friendly technology. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it simple to stay connected on the go. The available rear-seat entertainment system is a great bonus for keeping kids entertained on long trips. In terms of ride quality, the Tahoe is surprisingly comfortable for a full-size SUV. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and pleasant ride. Finally, we like the Tahoe's ruggedness and capability. It's a tough and dependable vehicle that can handle just about anything you throw at it, from towing heavy loads to tackling off-road trails.

What We Don't Like

Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the 2017 Chevy Tahoe has its share of drawbacks. One of the biggest complaints is its fuel economy. With EPA ratings of 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, the Tahoe is not exactly fuel-efficient. This can be a significant expense, especially if you do a lot of driving. Another issue is the Tahoe's third-row seat. While it's fine for children, it's not very comfortable for adults, especially on long trips. Legroom and headroom are limited, and it can be difficult to access the third row. We also found the Tahoe's interior materials to be a bit underwhelming. While they're certainly functional, they don't quite live up to the expectations of a vehicle in this price range. Some may find the interior design to be a bit bland as well. Finally, the Tahoe's cargo space is somewhat limited, especially with the third row in place. While it's adequate for everyday needs, it may not be enough for those who frequently haul large items.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2017 Chevy Tahoe? Overall, it's a solid choice for those who need a full-size SUV that can handle just about anything. It offers a powerful engine, a spacious interior, and a range of convenient features. However, it's important to be aware of its drawbacks, such as its poor fuel economy and limited third-row space. If you're willing to live with these shortcomings, the Tahoe could be a great fit. But if fuel economy and third-row comfort are high priorities, you may want to consider other options. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Tahoe is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see for yourself. Consider your needs and preferences, and compare the Tahoe to other SUVs in its class before making a decision. Thanks for joining us on this comprehensive test drive review! We hope you found it helpful.