A tire-pressure monitor is newly standard for 2004 on Chevrolet's full-size SUVs. Tahoes are the basis for GMC's Yukon and Yukon Denali. The longer Suburbans are kin to the Yukon XL and Denali XL. Tahoes come in half-ton 1500 form, Suburbans in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 models. All offer LS and upscale LT trim and swing-out rear cargo doors or a liftgate with opening glass. A 3rd-row bench seat is standard on Suburbans, optional on Tahoes for up to 9-passenger capacity. With leather upholstery, 2nd-row buckets are optional. Front side airbags are optional. Curtain side airbags are unavailable.

All Tahoes and Suburbans have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, automatic transmission with Tow/Haul mode, and a V8 engine. Tahoes come with a 4.8 liter and offer a 5.3 that's standard on Suburban 1500s. Suburban 2500s use a 6.0 or optional 8.1 liter. Available is rear-wheel drive or GM's Autotrac 4WD, which can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing.

GM's Stabilitrak antiskid system is optional for 5.3-liter models. GM's Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering is available for 6.0-liter Suburban 2500s. Quadrasteer reduces the turning circle at low speeds and is designed to enhance stability at higher speeds and when towing. Available for all models are power-adjustable pedals. Rear DVD entertainment and satellite radio are also optional. LT trim includes turn-signal lights for the power door mirrors. Rear load-leveling suspension and OnStar service are also offered. The Z71 package for 4WD models delivers special wheel flares, body trim, and shock absorbers, plus 17-inch wheels in place of 16s.