The Chevy Tahoe offers cargo space, passenger accommodations, and towing capacity. It's a full-size truck and handles like one, offers the versatility of real low-range four-wheel drive, while delivering a good ride and a pleasant interior. The Hybrid model gets decent mileage in the city and the XFE is a better highway-cruiser value.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent G.R. Whale reported from Los Angeles, with Kirk Bell in Chicago and Larry Edsall in Phoenix.
6-speed automatic; 4-speed automatic; Electrically Variable Transmission with four fixed gears
Safety equipment (standard):
dual-stage front airbags, full-coverage head-protecting curtain side airbags with rollover sensors; tire-pressure monitor, LATCH child safety seat anchors; four-wheel antilock brakes; traction control; electronic stability control with rollover mitigation; OnStar 8.0
Safety equipment (optional):
rear park assist, rear-view camera, integrated trailer brake control
Basic warranty:
3 years/36,000 miles
Assembled in:
Arlington, Texas
Specifications As Tested
Model tested (MSRP):
Chevy Tahoe Hybrid 4WD ($53,260)
Standard equipment:
leather upholstery (vinyl third row); three-zone climate control; heated power front bucket seats; navigation; front center console; split-folding second-row bench seat; tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls; adjustable pedals; cruise control; intermittent wipers front/rear; power locks, mirrors and windows; remote keyless entry; heated outside mirrors; side assist steps; AM/FM/CD Bose audio; XM satellite radio; Bluetooth; rearview camera; auto-dimming rearview mirror; automatic headlights; theft-deterrent system;; trailer hitch platform with seven-wire harness; one year of OnStar service; rear cargo shade; fog lamps; P265/65R18 tires on alloy wheels; remote start
Options as tested (MSRP):
rear DVD entertainment ($1,295); moonroof ($995)
Destination charge:
($950)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$56,500
Layout:
four-wheel drive
Engine:
6.0-liter ohv 16-valve V8/300-volt electric hybrid
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
332 @ 5100
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
367 @ 4100
Transmission:
4-speed electronically variable automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
20/20 mpg
Wheelbase:
116.0 in.
Length/width/height:
202.0/79.0/77.0 in.
Track, f/r:
68.2/67.0 in.
Turning circle:
39.0 ft.
Seating capacity:
7
Head/hip/leg room, f:
41.1/65.3/41.3 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
38.5/60.6/40.5 in.
Head/hip/leg room, r:
38.2/49.1/25.4 in.
Cargo volume:
108.9 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
independent, coil springs, antisway bar Lbs.
Suspension, f:
independent, coil springs, antisway bar
Suspension, r:
five-link, coil springs, antisway bar
Ground clearance:
9.0 in.
Curb weight:
5835 lbs.
Tires:
265/65R18
Brakes, f/r:
vented disc/vented disc with ABS
Fuel capacity:
24.5 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of December 23, 2008.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-222-1020 -
www.chevrolet.com
