And to ensure the two-mode full hybrid Tahoe projects a distinctive image to complement its cutting-edge powertrain and superior
fuel economy, Design Manager David Smith and his team lowered it by 10 mm (0.4 inches) in the front and incorporated additional aerodynamic features to magnify its contrast against the non-hybrid Tahoe. Prominent hybrid badges to complete the look, which I rate as the sharpest in the full-size SUV segment.
But in order to sell a full-size hybrid SUV, Chevy will have to rely on more than just good looks. The technologies at work in the 2008 Tahoe Hybrid are very complex and sophisticated, which is why potential customers will look long and hard at the warranty coverage provided by GM, as well as any available reliability data. They will also sharpen their pencils and do the math; will it make financial sense to spend the extra dough to save money on fuel expenses? Pricing has not been announced yet, so guess work is at play here, but generally speaking
it takes a lot of driving or a money-be-damned commitment to the environment to make the added expense of hybrid ownership truly profitable. Only Honda's new Civic, which recently dropped in price by thousands in base trim while upping every aspect of its design, build execution and performance, seems like a decent bet financially. Assuming Chevy gets the numbers game right (warranty, price, reliability), the 2008 two-mode full-hybrid Tahoe may well be the SUV of the future; and I hope that's the case.
The Tahoe Hybrid is expected to hit the market next year as a 2008 model, along with its two-mode hybrid GMC Yukon cousin. Also, expect more derivatives among full- and mid-size GM SUVs to follow, as well as new versions of the automaker's full-size pickups to feature its dual-mode full hybrid technology. Pricing and production volumes of the Tahoe Hybrid have not been announced by GM, but can be expected closer to its launch date.
Specifications (two-mode full hybrid):
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| GM's new HEV was lowered it by 10 mm (0.4 inches) in the front andincorporates additional aerodynamic features to magnify its contrastagainst the non-hybrid Tahoe. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
But in order to sell a full-size hybrid SUV, Chevy will have to rely on more than just good looks. The technologies at work in the 2008 Tahoe Hybrid are very complex and sophisticated, which is why potential customers will look long and hard at the warranty coverage provided by GM, as well as any available reliability data. They will also sharpen their pencils and do the math; will it make financial sense to spend the extra dough to save money on fuel expenses? Pricing has not been announced yet, so guess work is at play here, but generally speaking
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| The Tahoe Hybrid is expected to hit the market next year as a 2008 model, along with its two-mode hybrid GMC Yukon cousin. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
The Tahoe Hybrid is expected to hit the market next year as a 2008 model, along with its two-mode hybrid GMC Yukon cousin. Also, expect more derivatives among full- and mid-size GM SUVs to follow, as well as new versions of the automaker's full-size pickups to feature its dual-mode full hybrid technology. Pricing and production volumes of the Tahoe Hybrid have not been announced by GM, but can be expected closer to its launch date.
Specifications (two-mode full hybrid):
- Price Range (MSRP): TBA
- Body Type: 5-door body on frame SUV
- Layout: front engine, AWD / 4WD
- Gas Engine: 5.3-liter (327 cu in) OHV V8
- Transmission: continuously variable
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: TBA
- Seating Capacity: 7 - 9
- Cargo Cap (max): 3,084 L (108.9 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance: 229 mm (9.0 in)
- Towing Capacity (est): 2,727 kg (6,000 lbs)
- Fuel Economy: TBA
- Warranty (mo/km): TBA
- Direct Competitors (speculated): Acura MDX Hybrid, Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, Dodge Durango Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid, Ford Explorer Hybrid / Expedition Hybrid, Honda Pilot Hybrid, Hummer H2 Hybrid, Lexus LX Hybrid, Lincoln Navigator Hybrid, Jeep Commander Hybrid, Mercedes-Benz ML Hybrid / GL Hybrid, Toyota Sequoia Hybrid
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
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