The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe lineup adds an available gas/electric hybrid model as well as a new top-line V8 engine. These large SUVs share their basic designs with the GMC Yukon and premium-large Cadillac Escalade. Tahoe comes in LS, LT, LTZ, and Hybrid trim levels. All are available with rear-wheel drive or with GM's full-time Autotrac 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-roading.
A 295-hp 4.8-liter V8 engine is standard on the 2WD Tahoe LS. A 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 is optional on that model and standard on all other Tahoes, except the Hybrid. Some versions of that engine can run on E85 ethanol fuel. Newly available on rear-drive Tahoe LTZ models is a 380-hp 6.2-liter V8. Tahoe Hybrids have a 332-hp 6.0-liter V8 that pairs with an electric motor. These models can run on one or both of their power sources, depending on driving demands, and require no plug-in charging. The 5.3- and 6.0-liter engines have GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. All Tahoes have an automatic transmission. 6.2-liter versions use a 6-speed. Hybrids have a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All others have a 4-speed. Maximum towing capacity is 8200 lb.
Standard on LTZs is GM's Autoride suspension that includes load-leveling and automatically adjusts firmness based on road and driving conditions. LT is available with Chevy's Z71 Off-Road Suspension Package. Passenger capacity ranges from five to nine, with two- and three-place seating available for any of the three rows.
Available safety features include: ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A power tailgate, power running boards, navigation system, and DVD entertainment are among available features on the 2008 Tahoe.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse seven-plus passenger wagons with brawny truck-type chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally poor fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.
Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition. We have no Recommended picks in this class for 2008.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Sequoia. The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon add a gas/electric hybrid model for 2008.
News
General Motors says it may offer a 330-hp diesel V8 for its largest SUVs by model-year 2010. The company is cagey about details for now, but says this new diesel will be a 32-valve dual-overhead-cam design--and clean enough for sale in all 50 states. GM projects a Yukon so equipped would get around 28 mpg in city driving vs. 21 for a comparable gas-engine model.