Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
MSRP: $50,735
Estimated MPG: 21 city / 22 highway
Class: Full-size SUV
The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid’s fuel mileage – 21 miles per gallon in the city, and 22 miles per gallon on the highway – might not seem impressive until considering the fact that this full-size SUV offers almost all of the same power and utility of a V8-powered truck, minus the incredible fuel consumption those vehicles are known for.
The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid accomplishes this difficult feat thanks to a two-mode hybrid system that combines a 6.0 liter V8 with two electric motors. The vehicle is able to operate on battery power, gasoline or a combination of the two depending upon the driving situation that is encountered. Not only that, but the engine management system can actively cut down the number of cylinders being used when the SUV is facing only a light power demand, enabling it to cruise on just 4 cylinders for extended periods. Chevrolet claims that the vehicle is the most fuel efficient full-size SUV on the market, and its frugality is tempered with a heaping portion of practicality – 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque enable the Tahoe to tow up to 6,200 lbs. This number is impressive for any vehicle, let alone one sporting an electronically-variable automatic transmission.
The Tahoe Hybrid’s 108.9 cubic feet of total available cargo space make it clear that the truck can handle just about anything that it is asked to carry. Three rows of seating provide all passengers with enough leg, head and shoulder room that the SUV’s interior never feels claustrophobic, and the Hybrid’s standard equipment list falls just under the top of the line LTZ trim. This means that navigation is included free of charge, as is a rear view camera. Those interested in taking their Tahoe Hybrid off-road will be pleased to note that a locking rear differential is provided with the truck, and four-wheel drive can be added if buyers do not mind the extra fuel mileage penalty.