Improving on 2007’s Model: The 2008 Tahoe Revisited
In 2008 Chevrolet released the Tahoe Hybrid to the truck-buying market. The Tahoe came in four configurations: Hybrid, LS, LT, and LTZ. The Hybrid configuration is powered by the 6.0-liter eight-cylinder engine, which makes 20 - 21 highway miles and 15 - 16 city. The Tahoe competes in the Sport Utility market segment, in direct competition with Kia.
Engine Performance
The Tahoe Hybrid is equipped with a General Motors 6.0 liter eight-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Vortec engine is mated to a General Motors 4-speed Transmission. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Chevrolet.
The Tahoe uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The truck uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.
Tahoe Hybrid Statistics
The dimensions of the Tahoe Hybrid are 79.00 inches wide by 202.00 inches long. It sits a comfortable 76.90 inches off the ground. It seats a standard six passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 116.00 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $34,630 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $31,686. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Sport Utility.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2008 Tahoe’s normal fuel system runs on electric/gas. The fuel is regulated electronically, with a fuel-injected multi-port fuel injection (MFI) style of design. The fuel tank holds 26.00 gallons.
The 2008 Tahoe gets 20 - 21 miles/gallon on the highway and only 15 - 16 in the city. This is average for a sport utility truck.
Conclusion
The 2008 model year was unsuccessful for the Chevrolet Tahoe. The introduction of several trim levels (along with the Hybrid version) meant that buyers had several options to choose from..