2019 Chevrolet Tahoe Buyer's Guide: LS vs LT vs Premier
- Best value: LT with leather and convenience features ($33,000-$39,000)
- 5.3L V8 with 6-speed auto is proven reliable
- Third-row is cramped—Suburban is better for families
- RST package offers blacked-out performance styling
- Watch for brake wear and suspension component failure
Fair Price (LT)
$36,000
StableAvg. Mileage
72K mi
StableReliability
4/5
StableDays on Market
19
DownWhy the 2019 Tahoe?
The 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe is the final year of the fourth generation before the 2021 redesign. This means proven reliability, known issues, and significant savings over the new generation. The Tahoe competes with Ford Expedition and Nissan Armada, offering body-on-frame durability and serious towing capability.
Full-size SUVs excel for large families, towing, and those who need maximum interior space. The Tahoe's 5.3L V8 provides 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque—enough for 8,400 lb towing capacity. Gas mileage suffers (15 city/22 highway), but that's the trade-off for capability.
Trim Level Comparison
| Trim | Used Price | Key Features | Value Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS | $28,000-$33,000 | Cloth seats, 18" wheels, basic features | Budget |
| LT | $33,000-$39,000 | Leather, Bose audio, power liftgate | Best Value |
| RST | $38,000-$44,000 | Blacked-out styling, 22" wheels, performance | Sport |
| Premier | $40,000-$48,000 | Magnetic Ride, cooled seats, premium everything | Luxury |
LS
The LS is the work truck. Cloth seats, 18-inch wheels, basic infotainment. It's $5,000-$7,000 cheaper than LT but lacks leather and many convenience features. Good for fleet use or buyers who prioritize function over comfort.
LT (Best Value)
The LT adds leather-trimmed seats, Bose audio, power liftgate, heated front seats, and 20-inch wheels. This is what most Tahoe buyers want. The LT with Max Towing Package adds heavy-duty cooling and trailer brake controller—essential for towing.
LT with Max Towing
If you'll tow anything over 5,000 lbs, ensure the Tahoe has the Max Towing Package (NHT). This includes integrated trailer brake controller, heavy-duty cooling, and higher axle ratio. Adds $2,000-$3,000 to used value but essential for serious towing.
RST
The RST (Rally Sport Truck) is the blacked-out performance package with 22-inch black wheels, body-color trim, and Borla exhaust on some examples. It looks aggressive and appeals to buyers wanting truck capability with street style. Limited production makes it harder to find.
Premier
Premier is fully loaded with Magnetic Ride Control (adaptive suspension), cooled front seats, head-up display, and premium interior materials. Magnetic Ride is excellent—transforms the truck-like ride into near-car smoothness. Worth the premium if you drive long distances frequently.
Powertrain
The 2019 Tahoe uses GM's 5.3L V8 (L83) with direct injection and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). It produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic, it's smooth and proven.
Active Fuel Management shuts down 4 cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy. Some owners disable it to avoid potential lifter issues. This is preventive—most AFM systems work fine for 200,000+ miles.
Lifter Tick Awareness
Some GM 5.3L V8s develop lifter tick—a tapping noise at startup or idle. Often harmless, but can indicate AFM lifter failure. Listen carefully during test drive when cold. Repair costs $2,000-$4,000 if lifters need replacement.
What to Check When Buying
- Lifter noise: Cold start and listen for ticking. Some tick is normal; excessive noise warrants inspection.
- Transmission behavior: Should shift smoothly. Harsh 1-2 shifts indicate valve body issues.
- A/C function: Verify cold air. Condenser failures are common; repair costs $500-$1,000.
- Brake condition: Check pads and rotors. Heavy vehicles eat brakes; budget $300-$600 if due.
- Suspension: Listen for clunks and squeaks. Bushings and ball joints wear at 60K-80K miles.
- Towing equipment: If Max Towing Package, test brake controller and verify wiring harness function.
Fair Price Guide
2019 Tahoe pricing by trim and mileage:
- LS RWD (80K-100K mi): $28,000-$32,000
- LT RWD (60K-80K mi): $33,000-$38,000
- LT 4WD (60K-80K mi): $36,000-$42,000
- RST 4WD (50K-70K mi): $40,000-$46,000
- Premier 4WD (50K-70K mi): $42,000-$50,000
Recommended Buy
Pros
- Proven 5.3L V8 powertrain
- Body-on-frame durability
- 8,400 lb towing capacity
- Spacious interior
- Strong aftermarket support
- Better value than 2021+ redesign
Cons
- Poor fuel economy (15/22 MPG)
- Third-row cramped for adults
- A/C condenser issues common
- Lifter tick on some examples
- Ride quality truck-like (except Premier)
Recommendation
The 2019 Tahoe LT 4WD is the go-to full-size SUV for families needing space and towing capability. The proven powertrain should easily exceed 200,000 miles. For long-distance comfort, the Premier with Magnetic Ride Control is worth the premium. Skip the LS unless budget is tight—the LT\'s features justify the price difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find Your Tahoe with AutoHunter
Get alerts when Tahoes matching your criteria appear in your area.
Start Free Trial