Used 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV Review & Ratings

Performance

It does not matter which trim you buy in the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe, it is powered by the same strong engine. A 5.3-liter V8 pairs up with a six-speed automatic transmission to deliver 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. Zero to 60 mph is accomplished in approximately 8.5 seconds, which is about average for a vehicle of this size. One thing that is not average though is its more than generous towing capacity, handling up to 8,500 pounds, when properly equipped. Tahoe comes standard as a rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is optional. If you are looking for a vehicle that offers exceptional gas mileage, you are going to have to look elsewhere. This powerful engine is returning only about 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. For how large the 2013 Tahoe is, it is incredibly easy to drive. A small turning circle of only 39 feet means that it is easy to maneuver and park, and the suspension is supple to provide a cushioned ride. Those adding on the Z71 off-road package will definitely notice a firmer ride, but won’t have to think twice about taking the muddy road out to the secluded trails.

Technology

• Audio - A CD player, MP3 playback capability and six speakers are standard. LT bumps this to nine speakers but standard on LTZ and optional on others is an impressive BOSE Centerpoint 10-speaker surround sound with subwoofer.
• Drive Information Center - Easily monitor all the operations of your vehicle, including tire pressure, engine oil life, fuel range and mileage and more.
• Rear Seat Entertainment - An optional rear seat entertainment system is available with a flip down center-mounted screen and wireless headphones.
• SiriusXM - Three trial months comes with every new Tahoe which includes Satellite Radio and NavTraffic, which helps you avoid traffic jams.
• USB Port - Plug your MP3 player or music-loaded flash drive in and listen to all your favorite music.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2013 Tahoe a “Good” rating for front and side-impact crash tests; however it only received a “Marginal” rating for roof protection. When brake testing was done, the vehicle did stop from 60 mph in 134 feet, which is average. A steel safety cage combined with six airbags keeps passengers safe. Other safety features include:
• OnStar
• Four-wheel ABS
• Tire-pressure monitoring
• Post-collision safety system
• Stability control
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Dusk-sensing headlamps
• Traction control
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Engine immobilizer
• Child seat anchors
• Rear door safety locks
• Blind spot monitoring (optional)
• Rearview camera (optional)
• Parking sensors (optional)

Appearance

Tahoe’s styling remains unchanged for yet another year. This is a vehicle that you recognize coming down the road a mile away. Sadly, one of the biggest complaints is its boxy and outdated styling. It does have stunning headlamps and attractive wheels though, especially if you add on the 22-inch chrome wheels.

Comfort

The interior of the 2013 Tahoe is something worth getting excited over. Seating for eight is standard, but an optional split bench seat in the front increases this to a generous nine-passenger configuration. It should be noted though that the third row is really only practical for small children. When you slip behind the wheel, you immediately notice how large and comfortable the front seats are. You also appreciate the use of high-quality materials and that the controls are all thoughtfully placed and easy to identify and use while driving.

Cargo

With the third row seat in place there is barely 17 cubic feet to make use of, which won’t accommodate much more than a load of groceries. However, behind the front seat, there is 109 cubic feet which is impressive, but you will have to work to get the heavy seats out to open up the maximum capacity.