Chevrolet has been in the SUV game for a while. With its body-on-frame Tahoe and Suburban SUVs, the company gives drivers truck-like strength and everyday usability.

And for SUV buyers looking to save, buying used is the way to go. Not only can drivers save thousands, but they can find which models are the most reliable over the long haul. 

When shopping for pre-owned Chevy Tahoes and Suburbans, the two models may seem similar. And they are, to a point. But the Tahoe has one clear advantage that puts it over the top.  

The Chevy Tahoe and Suburban aren’t very different

From the outside, used Chevy Tahoes and Suburbans look nearly identical. Boxy sheetmetal and a strong stance give both SUVs a classic American look. V8 engines provide towing capacity to spare. And truck-derived platforms provide old-school brawn.

The main difference between the two is the wheelbase and interior space. Looking back to the 2010 model year, the Suburban had a 130-inch wheelbase, while the Tahoe’s measured 116 inches. While the former had 137 cu-ft of cargo space up to the first-row seats, the latter had 109 cu-ft. Both offered seating for nine, though the Suburban provided more legroom and shoulder room to third-row occupants.

To that end, deciding between the two can be a challenge. While the Suburban is the better family hauler, the Tahoe’s shorter wheelbase enhances agility. With both having room for nine, one doesn’t offer a distinct seating advantage. And since each offers strong small-block V8s, either one is a strong performer. 

The Chevy Tahoe has earned the ‘Seal of Awesome’ 5 times

Delving into past consumer complaints can offer a clearer picture of a used vehicle’s build quality and long-term reliability. And in that respect, the Tahoe excels, earning the “Seal of Awesome” five times from CarComplaints.com. 

The website looks at vehicle complaint histories, to see which ones offer a trouble-free ownership experience. It doesn’t review new cars, instead leaving that up to J.D. Power and automotive magazines. 

After perusing available data, ConsumerComplaint.com awarded the “Seal of Awesome” to five Chevy Tahoe model years: 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, & 2013. 

That’s nice to know when you’re looking for a used SUV. Peace of mind is everything on the open road, when you’re far from home and need a vehicle you can count on. And in that way, a pre-owned Chevy Tahoe delivers. 

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t trust a used Chevy Suburban

On the other hand, a used Tahoe’s superb ratings don’t mean a pre-owned Suburban isn’t to be trusted. After all, the two models are largely the same, from their platforms to their powerplants. Either one is a solid full-size SUV.

On Edmunds, the 2010 Suburban has an average owner review of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Not bad. And the automotive outlet praised the giant ‘ute for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and abundant storage space. Add in ample standard features, and you’ve got an excellent all-around package. 

Used Chevy Tahoes and Suburbans are solid, dependable SUVs. With brawny builds and large-displacement engines, they display pickup truck durability and towing power. With seating for nine, either model has more than enough room.

But the Tahoe’s superb consumer complaint history edges it ahead, making it the safer pick when shopping used. Even then, the Suburban is a commendable sport utility vehicle, with good reviews of its own. Either way, you get a uniquely American SUV.