Review: 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid two-wheel drive
Although most American buyers are largely abandoning the full-size SUV segment, there are still some that can’t do without the capabilities and size that a truck-based ‘ute offers. For those people, General Motors has created a greener alternative in the form of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid.
What is it?
The same Tahoe Americans have loved for years, only with added fuel-economy and environmental benefits of a hybrid drivetrain. The two-mode Tahoe hybrid gives up little capability to its gasoline counterpart and is currently the only offering in the full-size hybrid SUV segment – save for its twin, the GMC Yukon Hybrid.
What’s it up against?
The competitors for the Tahoe Hybrid include the Dodge Durango Hybrid, Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia. While the newest crop of large crossovers aren’t technically in the same segment as the Tahoe Hybrid, we’re sure buyers will likely cross shop the Tahoe Hybrid with the Ford Flex and even some of GM’s own Lambda-based crossovers.
Any big breakthroughs?
Although automakers have put hybrid powertrains in cars and smaller SUVs for years, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid represents the first of its kind – a full-size hybrid. In addition to being the first full-size hybrid on the market, the Tahoe Hybrid is also the first vehicle to use GM’s two-mode hybrid system.
Co-developed with the former DaimlerChrysler and BMW, the two-mode hybrid system allows the Tahoe to travel on all-electric power at speeds up to about 30 mph and also combines the power of the electric motor and gas engine at highway speeds. Regenerative braking is also part of the two-mode package.
The result of the hybrid system is a vehicle that can tow up to 6,200 pounds and still win Green Car Journal’s “2008 Green Car of the Year” award.
How does it look?
From about 50 yards, like a typical Tahoe. But a closer look reveals GM doesn’t want anyone mistaking this hybrid for is gas-only stable mate. Our tester had no fewer than eight hybrid badges and decals adorning the Tahoe’s exterior. In addition to the hybrid badging, the Tahoe Hybrid also has a more aerodynamic front fascia than the standard model, as well as a unique wheel and tire package intended to increase efficiency.
While we’re sure the lower air dam helps eek out just a few more MPGs, it looks to be a little low to the ground for an SUV. We never had any issues with the front end, but the Tahoe Hybrid’s chin looks like it’s destine to meet with some parking ties.
And the inside?
Apart from a “Hybrid Power Flow Display” and a unique gauge set, the Tahoe Hybrid’s interior is pretty much identical to its gas-powered counterpart. Because of the vehicle’s overall size, the interior of the Tahoe Hybrid is extremely roomy – without any intrusion from the on-board battery pack — and we can see why the full-size SUV has become so popular with families over the last few years.
Second road seating has adequate room for three adults, but third row seating proved to be vexing in every way. Access to the third row takes a bit of athleticism and there is virtually no leg room to speak off – making it only bearable for short trips. The third row also impedes on the Tahoe Hybrid’s cargo space and does not fold into the floor. The only solution for more space is to physically remove the seats from the SUV which is easier said than done. The rear bench comes out in two sections, each weighing at least 60 pounds. Unless you have a family of seven or often sever as the neighborhood bus, it’s probably best to take the rear bench out and forget that it ever existed.
The overall fit and finish and look of the Tahoe Hybrid’s interior is good, but the quality of materials aren’t exact up to par for a vehicle costing $50,000. Hard plastics cover the Tahoe Hybrid’s dash and continue on the SUV’s center console and door panels.
The Tahoe Hybrid comes standard with an in-dash navigation system, which we grew quite fond of. Although the system does have a bit of a learning curve, it’s one of the easier ones in the business to operate. In addition to displaying navigation and radio functions, the touch-screen display also keeps you aware of what the hybrid system is doing at any given moment.
HVAC controls are just below the nav screen and are easy and straight forward to use.
The Tahoe Hybrid’s instrument display contains the normal things you would expects to find in a gauge cluster, but also has an ‘auto stop’ meter built into the tachometer and an ‘economy’ gauge. Although economy gauges are nothing new to the industry, we liked having one in plain view as it helped us to keep the hybrid system performing at maximum efficiency.
But does it go?
Don’t let all the hybrid badging fool you. At the heart of this beast is still a 6.0L V8, cranking out a combined 332horsepower and 367 lb-ft or torque. But mashing on the gas pedal of the Tahoe Hybrid gives you the same sensation as if there was a turbocharged powerplant underhood – the electric motor moves the Tahoe off the line at less than a blistering pace, but then the big V8 kicks in, providing enough power to get a bit of wheel spin.
The Tahoe Hybrid’s handling is pretty much par for the segment and is what you would expect from a vehicle tipping the scales at over 5,600 pounds. But despite that heft, the Tahoe Hybrid is extremely maneuverable at parking lot speeds, thanks to a well-boosted power steering system.
Why you would buy it
You’re already in the market for a top-of-the-line SUV but want a vehicle that will save you a little bit at the pump. With a starting price of $49,590, the Tahoe Hybrid commands a few thousand dollar premium over the standard Tahoe, but buyers will actually recoup the difference in gas savings in about five years.
Why you wouldn’t buy it
While driving the Tahoe Hybrid, we couldn’t help but liken it to a high definition VHS tape. Sure it progresses the segment, but is it even something we’ll be using in a few years? We averaged 21.7 mpg in the Tahoe Hybrid (although admittedly in mostly highway driving) – which is very good for the segment – but we could have probably seen just as high or better economy in a Buick Enclave or GMC Acadia.
If you don’t need the ability to tow 6,000 pounds, you’d probably be much happier in a large crossover. In addition to saving you tens of thousands at the dealer, you’ll probably match or beat the Tahoe Hybrid in fuel economy.
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