![]() The unique transmission houses the electric motors along with three different planetary gearsets and four traditional clutches. GM engineers say that combined output of the gas and electric motors is 379 hp. It's joined by two 60-kilowatt electric motors supplied by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack under the rear seat. On its own, the V8 is rated at 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. The 2012 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid features a 6.0-liter V8. But will you also save money? That seems extremely doubtful. If this is your chief priority while also maintaining maximum utility, then the 2012 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid is really the only show in town. In the end, the Tahoe Hybrid will definitely save fuel compared to other large family haulers, especially in the city. And if pulling heavy objects isn't a requirement, you'd be well advised to consider a large crossover like the Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango or Ford Explorer. You might consider smaller, diesel-powered, European luxury crossovers like the BMW X5 xDrive35d that have less interior room but offer greater fuel-efficiency and a superior driving experience. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid isn't quite as spacious or brawny as the Tahoe, but it's far cheaper and achieves much better fuel economy. There are clearly alternatives available. Based on average use, the EPA says you'll only save about $550 per year from reduced costs at the gas pump. Then there's the issue of price, with the Hybrid starting about $5,000 more than a similarly equipped regular Tahoe. Other full-size SUVs can tow more than the Tahoe Hybrid, and there's a gaggle of vehicles - including minivans and big crossovers - that provide greater comfort, versatility and agility while returning fuel economy within 2 or 3 mpg of the Tahoe Hybrid. This is especially true if you routinely end up in stop-and-go traffic, as the efficiency improvement delivered by its electric components is maximized in such driving conditions.įrom a practical standpoint, however, the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid isn't as appealing. Shoppers with an eye on conserving the earth's resources, yet who still need the size and towing capability of a big SUV, can feel good about choosing the Tahoe Hybrid. That's better fuel economy than a six-cylinder Honda Odyssey, for instance.Ĭredit for this capability goes to the Tahoe Hybrid's two-mode hybrid powertrain, which combines a 6.0-liter V8 with a pair of electric motors and a specialized transmission. It can seat eight and tow up to 6,200 pounds, but still gets an estimated 20 mpg in city driving. ![]() ![]() The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is an expensive but well-appointed full-size SUV with impressive green credentials, considering its size and capability. ![]()
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