2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
- 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Based on analysis of 29 Tahoe-Hybrid reviews and test drives.
Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid ranks 5 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 29 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid attempts to let buyers have it all: full-size SUV capability with lower emissions and fewer trips to the gas station. Along with the conventional Tahoe, it's the U.S. News Best Car for the Money in the large SUV class.
But buyers expecting Prius-like fuel economy numbers should look elsewhere. Though the Tahoe hybrid uses cutting-edge two-mode hybrid technology to allow the Tahoe to operate on either V8 engine power or on power from two electric motors, Chevrolet's refusal to give up an ounce of capability leads to some compromises on fuel economy. The Tahoe hybrid boasts a 25% improvement in fuel economy over the conventional Tahoe in mixed driving, but buyers need to remember that the Tahoe's fuel economy numbers weren't phenomenal to begin with. The 25% improvement is nice, but this is one hybrid that isn't going to make it to 100, 50, or heck-even 30 mpg.
Still, the Tahoe Hybrid, and its corporate cousins, the GMC Yukon Hybrid and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, are unique. Though they aren't the greenest hybrids on the block, they are the most capable. All three can go off-road, tow boast and horse trailers, and offer comfortable seating for seven in luxurious and roomy cabins. Prius drivers may use less gas on their trips around town, but Tahoe hybrid drivers will be able to bring more toys and people along, and arrive in comfort and style.
General Motors, Chevrolet's parent company, has recently declared bankruptcy. While the company says that business should continue as usual, the bankruptcy could add a layer of uncertainty for GM buyers. However, those who are able to stomach the uncertainty may be able to get a great deal on a new Chevrolet. Check out What GM's Bankruptcy Means for You to answer any questions you have before buying.
With an uncertain economy, Chevrolet is offering discounts on many of its models. Check out this month's Best Chevrolet Deals to see if you can save on a new Chevy Tahoe Hybrid.
- "GM is doing a great favor to buyers who need the beef and brawn of a truck-style SUV but have been scared off by poor mileage and high fuel prices." -- USA Today
- "And the system certainly works, producing substantial fuel-economy gains. But during our time with the Tahoe, we couldn't ignore this burning question: Why not just have a diesel Tahoe instead?" -- Car and Driver
- "The first politically correct full-size SUV is about the hit the market - with a city fuel-economy rating the same as that of a four-cylinder Toyota Camry or Honda Accord." -- Fort-Worth Star Telegram
Tahoe-Hybrid Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
Auto reviewers say that the Tahoe Hybrid retains the handling characteristics that make the conventional Tahoe so easy to live with. Unfortunately, the electric motors have trouble moving the big SUV at slow speeds, and the braking takes some getting used to. continue
Tahoe-Hybrid Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)
The 2009 Chevy Tahoe hybrid is an example of how exterior design can improve fuel economy-even for a big and brawny SUV. Lightweight materials and a more aerodynamic stance all help the Tahoe Hybrid save fuel. continue
Tahoe-Hybrid Interior - 8.9 (Very Good)
Other hybrids may use less gas, but the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid gets high marks for interior comfort, amenities and style. continue
Tahoe-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid does exceptionally well in federal government crash tests, earning five out of five stars in frontal crash tests for both driver and passenger. continue
Tahoe-Hybrid Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). GM backs the Tahoe Hybrid with a three-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty, and a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. continue
