Overview & Reviews

The discontinued Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid came close to being a best-of-both-worlds sort of vehicle. To wit, it seats eight, can tow 6,200 pounds when properly equipped and gets up to 21 mpg in mixed driving. Unfortunately, the Tahoe Hybrid was considerably more expensive than a regular Tahoe when new, making it a questionable purchase from a value standpoint. And just like the regular Tahoe, the Hybrid suffered from some inherent shortcomings that made a large crossover SUV a better choice for many shoppers.

The Tahoe Hybrid never sold particularly well, so finding a used one could prove challenging. If you do track one down, keep in mind that similarly priced three-row crossovers are likely to provide comparable fuel economy and a better driving experience. Note, too, that the hybrid power system is quite complex, so long-term reliability is a bigger question mark than usual. But if you're looking for big-SUV functionality in a relatively fuel-efficient package, a used Tahoe Hybrid could still fill the bill.

Used Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid Models
Produced in a single generation for the 2008-'13 model years, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is a full-size SUV with a gasoline/electric powertrain that produces a healthy 379 horsepower. EPA fuel economy ratings fluctuated slightly through the years, but the combined city/highway figure was consistently 21 mpg for the rear-wheel-drive Tahoe Hybrid, with the four-wheel-drive version hovering between 20 and 21 mpg. At the time, this was approximately 30 percent better than the regular Tahoe could manage.

The secret lies in the interplay between the twin electric motors and the 6.0-liter gasoline V8 engine. For one thing, the Tahoe Hybrid can accelerate from a standstill to about 30 mph on electricity alone, though you'll need flat (or ideally downward-sloping) ground and very patient drivers behind you to make it happen. But even when the gasoline engine kicks in, the electric motors minimize fuel consumption by continuing to provide motivation. The Tahoe also capitalizes on familiar hybrid technologies such as regenerative brakes, which are used to recharge the battery pack while slowing the vehicle.

GM developed this hybrid system in conjunction with BMW and the now-defunct DaimlerChrysler partnership. The most novel component is the transmission, which uses three special planetary gearsets in addition to four fixed ratios like a conventional automatic. Depending on the driving situation, this electronically variable transmission (EVT) can function with continuously variable gearing for light loads or fixed-ratio strength for heavy-duty tasks.

Because of the considerable weight added by the hybrid-related components, Chevrolet made an effort to lighten the load and streamline the Tahoe Hybrid. Some of the body panels are made of aluminum, while thin-profile seats shed additional pounds. The Tahoe Hybrid also has aerodynamic add-ons and low-rolling-resistance tires. It's a bit surprising, then, that the four-wheel-drive Hybrid has low-range gearing, an unusual attribute for a hybrid SUV.

The rest of the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid is largely identical to well-equipped regular Tahoe models of the same vintage. It has three rows of seating, an eight-passenger capacity and up to 109 cubic feet of cargo space, more than any other hybrid. To access that full space, however, you have to physically remove the third row of seats -- just about every other large SUV allows you to fold it flat into the floor. Standard features included leather seating, a premium sound system and a navigation system. The only significant items left as options were a rear-seat entertainment system and a sunroof.

In reviews of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, we found that it drove very much like a regular Tahoe from that era. In fact, its acceleration and highway passing performance were a shade better. But while the Hybrid's combined fuel economy rating was a major improvement, it's still a far cry from what most people would consider "good" in the absolute sense. Overall, consumers who don't need massive towing capacity would be better served by equally roomy crossovers like the three-row Chevrolet Traverse.

Changes were few and far between for the Tahoe Hybrid. For 2009, power-adjustable pedals became standard, while the 2012 model added front-seat side airbags. Otherwise, this quirky truck received only minor technology upgrades during its run.

User Reviews:

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  Great Car - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By Marco - June 9 - 4:20 am

  I was in the market for a large SUV. So why not decrease my carbon exposure and increase some fuel saving. I avg. 21.3 city driving and almost 24 highway. The hybrid technology has changed the way I drive in that I am not as aggressive a driver as I once was; saving much more on fuel economy. I totally recommend hybrids. Great purchase even though people think a large SUV Hybrid is an oxymoron.

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  I Love This Car! - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By trisha - March 11 - 10:00 pm

  I absolutely love this car. I have only had it for a couple of weeks, and I like driving it more and more everyday. I had my eye on an 07 Tahoe when I purchased this one and I am so glad I did. Not to mention the black is fabulous! I have seen the ones with the hybrid decals, but mine did not come with those and I am glad. The gas mileage has proved better than the minivan we previously owned. I would recommend this care to anyone.

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  Had this car for over 3 years and still LOVE it! - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By danimarie4 - July 2 - 9:58 am

  I bought this car brand new in July 2008 and I still absolutely love it. Not many issues, other than a recent engine light on for an emissions issue. Its a very reliable car, mileage is CONSISTENTLY 20-21 no matter where or how I am driving. Wonderful family car. Highly recommend after 50,000 miles!

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  09 Tahoe - 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By John - June 9 - 3:33 pm

  Traded my 06 GMC Yukon 4WD for the new Chevy Hybrid. Now getting 20+ around town instead of 12, I think that is great. It is also easier to get in and out of than the Yukon was. So far this unit has made me a happy camper, I only hope General Motors makes it through the rough times! Need that warranty! JLH

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  Not Happy - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By flsunlover - May 10 - 8:56 am

  I traded in a BMW 745i for this vehicle for the space and 3rd row of seats. I was so happy at first, until things started breaking. First, every time i filled the gas tank up, the truck missed and wouldnt run. Something was wrong with the gas tank which allowed it to fill up too much. Second, a sensor went out causing me to almost not stop in a parking lot. Then, the hybrid system in the transmission went out. Now, my driver side rear door wont open and im taking it in tomorrow. Finally, I only average 16mpg city. This is nowhere near the 21 advertised on the sticker when I bought it.

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  Tow vehicle - 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By yoli6 - March 21 - 1:39 am

  I purchased this car because I have a 5500 lb. boat and I wanted better over all fuel economy. Success!!! I have towed my boat over Colorado passes with no problems. It does push the car around a little. I get 20 to 22 miles per gallon around town and 16 mpg towing. I live in the Colorado Rockies and the 4wd snow and ice capabilities are amazing. The only problem is they lowered the ground clearance and the front plastic panel bottoms out a lot. The car makes a lot of weird noises from the electric motors that I cant describe (clicking, humming, and buzzing). As of now I would buy another one and encourage anyone who tows to buy one.

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  A great ride - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By rdstoll - December 30 - 6:33 pm

  For a vehicle this size it is relatively quick and a fun ride. Handling is good, and most importantly, the mileage thus-far is performing up to stated claims. You can tell it is a hybrid as you drive it at lower speeds since it feels like youre driving an electric golf cart. Sometimes, there is hesitation from a dead stop as it decides whether to use electric, gas, or a combo of the two to get the truck moving. A minor quibble. Interior controls are intuitive and easy to figure out. It lacks some bells and whistles that vehicles of this price tend to have, however, such a programmed seating, heated outside mirrors, and 6-disc CD player. All in all, I love it!

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  Should have made it sooner - 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By gary - November 3 - 12:20 am

  My last car is Tahoe 2002 LT. It had 145,000 miles with virtually no mechanical problems other than 2 failed power windows. It still runs great so I gave it to one of our store manager. I tow 4000 lb. boat and haul heavy loads of beverages. There is no other Hybrid that can do all that. I have been getting 20.7 mpg in city and highway combined driving. It tows my boat well. I really enjoy the quietness. The back seat doesnt hide away like the older Tahoe so I lose a little cargo space probably due to the space being used for battery storage. I hope the GM doesnt give up its Hybrid program.

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  My favorite car ever! - 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By Kimberly - August 18 - 7:10 pm

  I have owned many sport cars and SUVs and this is the best one yet. The ride is smooth and powerful. I drove a Cadillac SRX for 3 years and I love having the V8 back with better gas mileage in the city than my SRX. I love how fully loaded the truck comes, but I wish the back door had an automatic control to help my old shoulders. My two teenage daughters think it is very cool and they love having all the room of a full SUV back over a crossover. The technology behind the hybrid system is great even though GM has not pulled up the gas mileage up as high as other hybrids. The autostop feature when the car is stopped at the traffic light or in the car pool light is awesome.

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  What a Great Vehicle - 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
  By cecil - April 24 - 6:26 am

  I am truly enjoying my Tahoe. It rides nicely, and brakes very well. The technology is great, and the OnStar directions service is amazing. I just got a cable for my iphone, and it connects perfectly with the stereo system, and allows great connectivity to my phone. I also love the interior. The year end deal was fabulous with lots of incentives.