The Chevrolet Tahoe (GMT900) with the 5.3L V8 engine and automatic transmission, produced from 2007 to 2014, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s full-size SUV. This variant occupied a central position within the Tahoe lineup, offering a balance between capability, space, and affordability. It was a mainstay of American families and those needing a robust vehicle for towing and hauling, competing directly with the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. The GMT900 generation marked a shift towards more refined interiors and improved ride quality compared to its predecessors, while retaining the body-on-frame construction that defined the Tahoe’s rugged character.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tahoe |
| Generation | Tahoe (GMT900) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 i V8 (320/326 Hp) FlexFuel Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 134 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 320 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 326 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 61.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 454 Nm @ 4400 rpm, 334.85 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 475 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LMG |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3, 325.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm, 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 17.3 l, 18.28 US qt | 15.22 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2388 kg, 5264.64 lbs |
| Max. weight | 3220 kg, 7098.88 lbs |
| Max load | 832 kg, 1834.25 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 479 l, 16.92 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3084 l, 108.91 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l, 25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal |
| Length | 5131 mm, 202.01 in. |
| Width | 2007 mm, 79.02 in. |
| Height | 1953 mm, 76.89 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2946 mm, 115.98 in. |
| Front track | 1732 mm, 68.19 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm, 67.01 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 289 mm, 11.38 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m, 39.04 ft. |
| Approach angle | 17° |
| Departure angle | 21.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tahoe variant is the 5.3-liter (325 cubic inch) LMG V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The LMG features an iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder for efficient combustion. The engine is capable of running on gasoline or E85 ethanol fuel, offering flexibility at the pump. The 9.9:1 compression ratio is a compromise between performance and the ability to run on regular unleaded gasoline. The engine produces 320 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 454 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. When running on E85, power increases slightly to 326 hp. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving the rear wheels.
The 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission is paired with the LMG engine. This transmission is a heavy-duty unit designed to handle the substantial torque output of the V8 and the weight of the Tahoe. While a four-speed automatic may seem dated by modern standards, it provides smooth shifts and reliable operation. The gear ratios are optimized for towing and hauling, with a relatively deep first gear for quick acceleration from a standstill and a comfortable overdrive gear for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 4L80-E automatic combination delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 7.5-8.5 seconds, depending on load and conditions. The engine provides ample torque for everyday driving and towing, making it well-suited for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but can feel somewhat sluggish compared to more modern transmissions with more gears. Compared to the available 6.0L V8, the 5.3L offers less outright power, but provides better fuel economy. Compared to the diesel options, the 5.3L lacks the low-end grunt of the diesel, but is generally quieter and less expensive to maintain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8 automatic Tahoe typically came in the LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. LTZ trims added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose sound system, and tri-zone climate control. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and a sunroof. The Tahoe’s spacious interior offered seating for up to nine passengers, depending on the configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The GMT900 Tahoe utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension features an independent multi-link design, also with coil springs. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride, although it can feel somewhat floaty on uneven surfaces. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system is adequate for the Tahoe’s weight, but can feel somewhat lacking in stopping power when heavily loaded.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8 Tahoe was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, some critics noted its relatively poor fuel economy and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to the 6.0L V8, the 5.3L offered a better balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for those who didn’t need the extra power. The 5.3L also proved to be more reliable than the 6.0L, with fewer reports of mechanical issues.
Legacy
The GMT900 Tahoe with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used car market today. The LMG engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. While fuel economy is not its strong suit, the Tahoe offers a compelling combination of space, capability, and affordability. Common issues include oil leaks, sensor failures, and occasional transmission problems, but these are generally not major concerns. With proper maintenance, these Tahoes can easily exceed 200,000 miles, making them a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
