2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ

The top-of-the-line 2009 Chevy Tahoe LTZ comes equipped with a number of standard features not available in other Tahoe trims, including heated and cooled leather-appointed front bucket seats, heated second-row seats, a Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, Rainsense front wipers, and an Autoride suspension, which continually monitors the road surface, steering, and other inputs and varies the shock-damping rate accordingly to ensure optimal handling and passenger comfort. In addition, a rear self-leveling feature helps maintain an optimal rear suspension level when the vehicle is fully loaded or pulling a trailer.

Other standard interior features for the three-row, seven-passenger LTZ include a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, a remote starter, and an Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, which uses beeps and flashing lights to alert drivers when stationary objects are within 8 feet of the vehicle when backing up. For power, the Tahoe LTZ comes equipped with a 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine, which generates 310 hp and links to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission with manual shift. If more power is required, drivers can opt for a 366-hp, 6.0-liter V8 engine. Both V8s include FlexFuel capability and Active Fuel Management, which shuts down four cylinders when they're not required to conserve fuel. The rear-wheel-drive LTZ also comes with GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability program, an automatic locking rear differential, a universal home remote transmitter, and chrome-capped power-folding heated exterior mirrors with auto-dimming on the driver's side.

By R. Feeman