2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 4WD

The 2009 Chevy Tahoe LTZ 4WD holds the honor of being the best-equipped Tahoe for 2009, and with good reason. For starters, it comes equipped with Chevy's Autotrac four-wheel-drive system, which provides optimal traction and stability in all types of driving conditions. The LTZ 4WD cruises on 20-inch wheels and an Autoride suspension, which continually makes adjustments to the shocks to maximize handling and ride comfort. An automatic locking rear differential, which locks the rear axle and sends maximum power to the rear wheels when it detects slippage, also comes standard. For power, the LTZ 4WD features a 310-hp, 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine. Drivers who require more power can opt for the available 366-hp, 6.0-liter V8. Both V8 engines can run on E85 fuel, thanks to FlexFuel capability, and feature Active Fuel Management, which conserves fuel by shutting down four of the eight cylinders when they're not necessary, such as at cruising speeds. A six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission with manual shift and the StabiliTrak electronic stability system also come standard.

Inside, the seven-passenger Tahoe LTZ 4WD, which comes with three rows of seating, includes such standard features as heated and cooled front-row leather bucket seats, heated second-row leather bucket seats, tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, and a multifunction steering wheel. For communications and entertainment, the LTZ 4WD includes Bluetooth wireless connectivity, OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation, and a Bose Centerpoint surround-sound audio system with a 6-CD changer, XM satellite radio, rear audio controls, and a subwoofer in the center console. An Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist alerts drivers using beeps and flashing lights when it detects stationary objects within 8 feet of the vehicle when backing up. Other standard features include a power remote liftgate, Rainsense front wipers, and heated power-folding exterior mirrors with auto-dimming on the driver's side.

By R. Feeman