The Chevy Tahoe began its time in the market in 1995 as a rebadged K5 Blazer. This new full-size SUV sat on the same platform as the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Suburban at the time. Early models were offered in both two-door and four-door versions, but today’s models only come with four doors and three rows for passengers. Here are five of the used Chevy Tahoe model years that could be right for anyone searching for a rugged and capable pre-owned SUV.

1. 2013 Chevy Tahoe: $19,658-$26,722

The 2013 Chevy Tahoe brings a powerful engine, comfortable ride, and composed handling to the market, making it one of the top-rated full-size SUVs in its class. Car Complaints list it among one of the best used Tahoe model years, putting it ahead of most other vehicles in its class.

Pros

• Good fuel economy for the class
• Strong V8
• Easy to maneuver for its size

Cons

• Third row must be removed to provide maximum cargo space

When it comes to three-row SUVs, you won’t find many better than the Tahoe. This SUV is one of the most trusted models from 2013, with ample cargo space, user-friendly dashboard controls, and plenty of room for passengers.

2. 2011 Chevy Tahoe: $14,012-$19,320

With incredible towing capacity and three rows of comfortable seats, the 2011 Chevy Tahoe is one of the best options in the market. This full-size SUV offers good handling for a large SUV and provides one of the best fuel economy ratings in the class.

Pros

• Decent fuel economy for the class

Cons

• Third-row seat must be removed to open up the rear cargo space

The only engine offered for the 2011 model was the 5.3-liter V8, which provided plenty of power for most drivers. This big SUV tows up to 8,500 pounds, making it one of the most capable used Chevy Tahoe models.

3. 2010 Chevy Tahoe: $12,433-$16,716

The 2010 version of the Tahoe is another impressive vehicle with three rows of comfortable seats. This SUV was a solid vehicle when new and has the same pros and cons as the 2011 model, which makes sense since the two model years are part of the same generation.

The 2010 Tahoe is a smart choice for families, providing a front bench seat in some trims, which means nine people can ride along together. When the rear two rows of seats are removed, the Tahoe provides up to 108.9 cu-ft of cargo room, which is plenty to carry large sheets of plywood or heavy furniture.

4. 2009 Chevy Tahoe: $10,840-$14,284

If you expected many changes offered in the 2009 version of the Tahoe, when compared to the 2010 and 2011 models, you’d be disappointed. Although the pros and cons are the same for this Tahoe as the two future model years, 2009 was the year the 6.2-liter V8 engine became available on the LTZ trim.

It’s also the model year when Chevy introduced the six-speed automatic transmission for this full-size SUV.

The 2009 Tahoe is one of the most interesting used model years with three V8 engines offered. Two of those engines continue to be offered today, with the outlier being the 4.8-liter unit that came in the base version of the Tahoe.

5. 2006 Chevy Tahoe: $5,924-$6,298

Most 2006 Chevy Tahoes have more than 100,000 miles on the odometer by now, pushing the value and price of this SUV downward. Some owners have touted the 2006 Tahoe as the best vehicle they’ve ever driven and that it’s built to last a long time, which makes perfect sense.

Pros

• Strong engines
• Roomy and versatile interior
• Several available amenities

Cons

• Spotty build quality
• Interior materials could be better

The 2006 Tahoe received OnStar and steering wheel audio controls as part of the standard equipment upgrades. The StabiliTrak stability control system and tire-pressure monitoring system became standard with this model year as well.

What about the 2007, 2008, and 2012 model years?

The 2007 and 2008 model years were the beginning of the third generation, for the Chevy Tahoe. These two model years should be looked at with caution when searching for a used Tahoe to drive. They are mired with engine and accessory problems, which make them unreliable.

Somehow, the 2012 model year missed out on being one of the ‘Awesome’ models of the Tahoe. This version also has several problems that popped up and were resolved by the time the 2013 version was built.

Always do your research when looking at used cars and SUVs

It’s always a good idea to do your research when buying any vehicle. When you’re considering an older vehicle such as these used Chevy Tahoe models, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the individual SUV that you might want to drive. Just because a truck is from one of these model years doesn’t mean the previous owner took care of it properly.

The best used Chevy Tahoe model years received the ‘Awesome’ rating from Car Complaints. These full-size SUVs are reliable, offer several impressive features, and should be affordable, considering their age.