General Motors will unveil its two-mode hybrid SUVs — the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon — at the Texas State Fair today. GM has also released fuel economy ratings for the Tahoe and Yukon hybrids. Two-wheel drive models received an EPA rating of 21/22 mpg city/highway while all-wheel drive lowers the ratings to 20 mpg in both city and highway driving. All models come equipped with a 6.0L V8 — for a combined output of 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque — and can tow up to 6,200 lbs.
The hybrids also use GM’s cylinder deactivation system which allows the engine to run on just four-cylinders at cruising speeds. According to Automotive News, the SUVs can go up to 32 mph using only electric power, with the system using the gasoline engine or a combination of gas/electric at higher speeds. GM also used light-weight materials and aerodynamic exterior body pieces to help improve fuel economy.
The use of the two-mode hybrid system — developed in a joint venture between GM, Daimler Chrysler and BMW — makes the Tahoe and Yukon hybrids the most efficient vehicles in the large SUV segment. In comparison, the Nissan Armada and Ford Expedition return just 12/18 mpg city/highway and a Toyota Camry four-cylinder matches the hybrids’ 21 mpg city rating.
Prices have yet to be announced but are expected to start in the low $40,000 range. GM is planning to sell a total of 10,000 Tahoe and Yukon hybrids annually.
