New 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

In its second year on the market, the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid continues to receive excellent fuel economy and greener emissions while retaining its brute power, spacious interior and rugged capability.

The Tahoe Hybrid 2WD and 4x4 features a powerful Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 mated to two-mode electric motor that utilizes regenerative braking technology to capture power during stops to charge the battery pack. This system offers a 40 percent increase in estimated fuel efficiency for city driving; from 12-14 MPG to 20-21 MPG.  Not only will the money you save at the pump make your daily commute much more manageable, but will enable you and your family to take road trips. Highway driving is just a shade better with 20-22 MPG.   The Tahoe Hybrid competes with the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid.

Even though the biggest difference between the Tahoe and the Tahoe Hybrid is under the hood, the Hybrid version exhibits a few other distinct characteristics.  In the attempt to make the car lighter and more aerodynamic, the Tahoe Hybrid’s hood and liftgate are aluminum and a revised D-pillar and flared ends for the running boards lessen drag.  The instrument cluster of the Tahoe Hybrid is different than of the gas-only Tahoe.  The Tahoe Hybrid uses an economy gauge that shows if fuel efficiency is being maximized at a given moment and an “auto-stop” position to signify that the Hybrid is running on battery power alone.

A navigation system with hybrid power-flow animation comes standard, while Bluetooth connectivity, General Motor’s OnStar®, XM Satellite Radio with real-time NavTraffic and rear-seat DVD entertainment system are just some of the groovy features available.  An optional Bose® nine-speaker audio system with dual-play CD/MP3/DVD player provides excellent acoustic clarity.

Cargo room is very generous, with a maximum of 108.9 cubic feet with the new standard third-row seat removed and second row seat folded. The Tahoe Hybrid seats eight and has 16.9 cubic feet of storage behind the third row.  Dual front airbags and head-curtain side airbags for all rows are standard, with a rollover sensor for added protection. Also standard is the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, improving vehicle stability during emergency maneuvers. The standard anti-lock braking system helps to maintain control by reducing wheel lockup during hard braking.

The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid gives you the power, passenger/cargo space and drastically improved fuel economy that translates into fewer stops at the gas station and more weekend trips with your family.