Tahoe Hybrid hugs Mother Earth

“The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid combines the functionality and comfort of a full-size SUV with a two-mode fullhybrid system that optimizes fuel efficiency in bothcity and highway driving, [which is] the way mostAmericans use their vehicles,” said Tom Stephens, GMPowertrain group vice president. “[It] offers great per-formance — 25 percent better overall fuel economyand legendary Tahoe utility.

”Besides a robust electric system to save fuel, theTahoe Hybrid’s 6.0-liter V8 engine can shut down fourcylinders during low-power situations. Fully stoked,the big power plant generates 332 horsepower and 367 lb.-ft. of torque, connected to the wheels through a con-tinuously variable transmission. With all powerengaged, the Tahoe Hybrid can tow up to 6,200 pounds.

It can hold up to nine passengers in three rows ofcomfortable leather seats and contains side curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, heated seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a DVD-entertainment system,and easy-to-read analog gauges. Mileage: 21 mpg city/22 mpg highway MSRP: $50,490 Warranty: three years/36,000 miles