What you’ll notice first when getting into the new 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe is how easy it is to get behind the wheel or into the many passenger seats, including the easy-access, third-row seating. And if you’ve popped for the optional power fold-and-tumble second-row seats, getting into the way-back is a cinch. Next, you’ll find improved room in a bright and airy cabin with sculpted trim panels to provide more elbow and knee space, longer travel for the front seats, a huge center storage bin, a 25-percent larger glove box, and increased cargo-carrying room in the rear.

Once underway, the fun begins. The 2007 Tahoe’s throttle tip-in is gradual and stiffened over previous versions, giving you a sense of more precise control over acceleration and contributing to less fatigue for your right foot. While the engine and exhaust notes barely intrude upon the cockpit during normal driving, putting the hammer down produces a pleasant rush of sound, serving as aural entertainment and as an important reminder of your speed. Likewise, the Tahoe’s improved brake pedal feel is the best to date in a GM truck. Gone is the old Tahoe’s squishy brick of a pedal, with stopping power coming on nearly halfway through its range of travel. The Tahoe’s new brakes are linear and effective, slowing this hefty SUV with manners and ease.

Top awards go to the 2007 Chevy Tahoe’s rack-and-pinion steering. This new system carves turns in a manner more befitting true luxury models, with weighting that has greatly improved the on-center feel. For a full-size SUV, Tahoe’s suspension maintains an impressive balance between stiffness and compliance and reassuringly responds to steering input and road surfaces with uncanny ability.

Adding to the new Tahoe’s sense of upscale character, the interior is amazingly quiet thanks to a low coefficient of drag, which cuts wind noise. This helps make everyday conversation easy, and makes the Tahoe a terrific sanctuary after a brutal day at the office.