The mechanical benchmarks sought in the 2007 Tahoe not only included impressive fuel economy and sizable power output

Many steps have been taken to reduce or eliminate noise, vibrations and harshness levels. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

but also extraordinarily low levels of noise, vibration and harshness. Many steps have been taken, such as chassis strengthening and tuning, to reduce or eliminate such irritants, the effect being immediately detectable. Road noise and operational harshness is extremely well suppressed, making the Tahoe's cabin a serene, hushed environment while underway. If my forehead furled at all, it was due to slightly more engine noise than anticipated. GM's GenIV V8 produces a refined note, but slightly more audibly so than say the purposely subdued HEMI V8 powering the slightly smaller Jeep Commander.

Pairing the fuel-stingy but potent GenIV powerplant to GM's 4-speed Hydra-Matic 4L60 autobox formulated a strong, reliable, proven partnership in which gear changes were executed smoothly and appropriate

Pairing the fuel-stingy but potent GenIV powerplant to GM's 4-speed Hydra-Matic 4L60 autobox formulated a strong, reliable, proven partnership. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

to the engine's output, resulting in competent but not startling acceleration and passing performance. It should be said that that same Jeep Commander I just mentioned, as well as its Dodge Durango next of kin, plus the full-size Japanese SUVs, Nissan's Armada and Toyota's Sequoia, offer 5-speed automatics, most even with manual mode actuation, a step above the Tahoe's in specification at least, while the Explorer V8 fits in a class-leading 6-speed automatic.

If an engine with fewer cubic inches and less grunt is desired, Chevy will offer the 2007 Tahoe 2WD with a 4.8-litre (293 cu in) V8 capable of 290-horsepower and 290 foot-pounds of torque, but other than a lower initial cost, why? This engine will be the base unit powering the 2WD Tahoe.