Tahoe

There's more to the 2009 Chevy Tahoe than meets the eye. Of course, there's the full-size SUV with looks and room to spare. But there's also a 5.3L V8 engine with Active Fuel Management technology that's standard on all 4x4 models as well as 2WD LT and LTZ (available on 2WD LS) — helping provide better highway fuel economy than Toyota Sequoia.(2)

Standard on 1LT and 2LT 2WD models and available on LS 2WD, Tahoe XFE offers an EPA estimated MPG 15 city, 21 highway — that's better than any of its competitors.(3) It features an aluminum block Vortec 5.3L V8 engine and 3.08 rear axle ratio.

The key to Tahoe Hybrid's(1) efficiency is the two-mode hybrid propulsion system that helps Tahoe Hybrid 2WD offer the same city fuel efficiency as a standard 4-cylinder Toyota Camry.(2)

Mode 1
In the first mode, at low speeds and with light loads, the vehicle can operate in three ways: electric power, engine power or in any combination of electric and engine power. When operating with electric power, it provides all the efficiency of a full hybrid system. Leaving the engine shut off for extended periods of time and moving under electric power is key to reducing fuel consumption in heavy stop-and-go traffic. But when you need the extra muscle of Tahoe's Vortec V8 engine, it is there to seamlessly kick in and deliver the power you expect.

Mode 2
The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds to optimize fuel economy and help Tahoe Hybrid offer an astounding EPA estimated 21 MPG city, 22 highway for 2WD and 20 city, 20 highway for 4x4. It provides electric assist in addition to four-cylinder or full eight-cylinder power when conditions demand it, such as when towing a trailer and climbing steep grades. Put another way, you'll experience the benefit of low fuel consumption with plenty of horsepower, torque and utility.

The second mode integrates sophisticated hardware such as cam phasing and late-intake valve closure to allow for even more efficient engine operation. It also features Active Fuel Management, which smoothly shifts from eight cylinders to four and back, depending on how much power is needed.

The addition of a second mode to the drive system improves efficiency and reduces the need for large electric motors, which are used in today's single-mode systems. Tahoe Hybrid employs two smaller motors that are lighter and efficiently packaged within the space of its automatic transmission.

Shifts between the two modes are synchronous, which means no engine speed changes are necessary for the mode shift to occur, resulting in very smooth acceleration.

New for 2009 and standard on 1LT and 2LT 2WD models (available on LS 2WD), Tahoe XFE has better fuel economy than any of its competitors, including Toyota Sequoia and Ford Expedition.(1) XFE also features an aluminum block Vortec 5.3L V8 engine and a 3.08 rear axle ratio.

Standard in all Tahoe models, head-curtain side-impact air bags(1) for all rows help reduce the risk of injuries to outboard occupants in certain side impacts.

These air bags are designed to stay inflated in the unlikely event of a rollover to help reduce the risk of ejection.

2009 Tahoe is backed by the best coverage in America: 100,000 mile/5-year(1) transferable Powertrain Limited Warranty plus Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation Programs.

Chevy will also warrant certain hybrid components on Tahoe Hybrid(2) models for 100,000 miles/8 years.(1) No deductibles are associated with the Tahoe Hybrid warranty, which is transferable to any subsequent persons assuming ownership of the vehicle during the 100,000-mile/8-year warranty period.

All Chevy vehicles registered in the U.S.A. come with a bumper-to-bumper warranty and are covered for 3 years/36,000 miles.(1) The complete vehicle is covered, including tires, towing to your nearest Chevrolet dealership and cosmetic corrosion resulting from defects. Repairs will be made to correct any vehicle defect, and most warranty repairs will be made at no charge. In addition, rust-through corrosion will be covered for 6 years/100,000 miles.(1)

OnStar(1) with a one-year Safe & Sound Plan is standard when you purchase or lease Tahoe LS, while 1LT, 2LT, LTZ and Hybrid(2) models come with a one-year Directions & Connections Plan. An OnStar Advisor is always ready to help in a variety of situations, whether you have locked your keys in the vehicle,(3) you have a flat tire or the air bags have deployed.(4)

In select models, and in conjunction with Stolen Vehicle Assistance,(5) OnStar can also assist authorities by remotely slowing down a stolen vehicle. Once authorities have a clear line to sight of the vehicle and confirm that conditions are safe, they can request OnStar send a remote signal to gradually slow down the stolen vehicle. Stolen Vehicle Slowdown® helps reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities resulting from high-speed pursuits. Not available on Tahoe Hybrid.