2007 L.A. Auto Show: General Motors Announces Hybrid SUV Pricing

2007 L.A. Auto Show: General Motors Announces Hybrid SUV Pricing
GM today announced pricing for the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon Hybrids, the only full-size, fully capable SUVs whose two-wheel-drive (2WD) models offer the same EPA city fuel economy as a conventional four-cylinder midsize car.

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the generously equipped Tahoe Hybrid are $50,490 (2WD) and $53,295 (4WD); and $50,945 (2WD); and $53,755 (4WD) for the Yukon Hybrid. Prices include a $900 destination charge and, based on current adjusted EPA fuel economy calculations and pending IRS approval, buyers could be eligible for a federal tax credit.

“We promised to apply our most advanced technologies to vehicles that can save the most fuel, and we are delivering on that promise with the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid SUVs,” said GM vice chairman Bob Lutz. “The gasoline-only Tahoe and Yukon SUVs already offer best-in-segment fuel economy. Now, consumers can choose GM’s patented 2-Mode Hybrid technology that delivers the same city fuel economy as the 2008 Toyota Camry with the base four-cylinder engine. The difference is that the Tahoe and Yukon can seat eight people and can tow up to 6,200 pounds.”

The Tahoe Hybrid is part of a commitment by Chevrolet, GM’s largest brand, to provide customers around the globe with a variety of value-driven fuel solutions that range from gas-friendly to gas-free. The Yukon Hybrid is further evidence of GMC’s engineering excellence and innovative technology. Both are among 16 gas-electric hybrid models GM is introducing during the next four years. Despite the added technology, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid SUVs are not the highest-priced models within their respective lineups.

Two-wheel-drive Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid models deliver EPA fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city, a 50-percent improvement over their 5.3L gasoline-only siblings and comparable to the city fuel economy of the much-smaller 2008 2.4L-equipped Toyota Camry sedan, according to figures obtained from www.fueleconomy.gov. EPA highway fuel economy is 22 mpg. The fuel savings is impressive on 4WD models, too, with the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids rated at 20 mpg in both city and highway driving. This gives the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids a driving range of about 525 miles per tank of fuel, or enough for a trip from San Diego to San Francisco.

Making this possible is GM’s all-new, advanced electrically variable transmission and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM’s new 2-Mode Hybrid system enables the Tahoe and Yukon to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone and allows the 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods. The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids also save fuel with aerodynamic aids and reduced-mass components.

Along with exceptional fuel economy, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids deliver full-size SUV capability – up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) of towing capacity (2WD) and 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) on 4WD models; 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg) GCWR and eight-passenger seating capacity.

From subtle interior touches to functional exterior aerodynamic details, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid stand apart from the crowd. Once in the driver’s seat it is instantly clear that these vehicles are special — from the unique gauge clusters with distinctive badging to the special tachometer. Even the stylish thin-profile seats, designed to reduce mass for improved fuel savings, also provide a side benefit of increased second-row leg room.

These generously equipped, full-size SUVs include heated leather-appointed front bucket seats and leather-appointed second-row bench; driver and passenger power-adjustable seats; navigation radio with rearview camera system; a Bose premium sound system; XM Satellite Radio and the OnStar safety and security system. Other standard features include StabiliTrak electronic stability control; tire pressure monitoring system; a tire inflator kit (in lieu of a spare tire); cruise control; trailering receiver/equipment; two-speed transfer case (4WD); locking differential; 18-inch lightweight polished aluminum wheels and assist steps.

On the outside, form follows function with numerous aerodynamic features such as a lowered air dam, shaped running boards and special rear-end treatments. They enhance the vehicles’ overall appearance and contribute to their 0.34 drag coefficient. Noise-reduction measures include a new exhaust system and resonator; low-rolling resistance tires; additional engine intake induction tuning; an electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor and 42-volt variable-assist power steering; and tuning to the Energy Storage System cooling system internal fan.



DaHarderDaHarder - 11/14/2007 4:40:26 PM
+3 Boost
These prices are bordering on INSANE!

I'm all for saving/preserving the environment, but there's just No Way that the fuel savings these vehicles (might) afford can justify (let alone counter) the exorbitant initial monetary layout.

I'll Pass!


w209w114w209w114 - 11/15/2007 11:45:03 AM
0 Boost
For once we agree. Escalade priced Tahoes arent what the public wants


maikoazumaikoazu - 11/14/2007 5:09:18 PM
+1 Boost
For people who have boat or other large trailer object to pull, this would be warm welcome.


RupertRupert - 11/14/2007 6:26:25 PM
0 Boost
Diesel would be much better for pulling a boat.


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:13:20 PM
+2 Boost
Exactly


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:40:48 PM
+3 Boost
and thats an "exactly" to maikoazu. There is no diesel available in any US SUV, though GM has a 4.8 liter diesel on the way for the 1/2 ton pickups that will probably make it into the SUVs.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/14/2007 8:05:31 PM
0 Boost
$50K for a TAHOE! That's Escalade money! GL320 CDI money!

And in case anyone says these mileage numbers are ridiculous... they are nearly identical to (and actually 1MPG better than) the ratings for the Lexus LS600hL.


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:14:13 PM
+1 Boost
You don't get leather on a GL for that price.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/15/2007 12:00:06 AM
+1 Boost
Nor do you get it on a Tahoe.

But it's pretty obvious that the GL is superior.

GL320 CDI with leather:

$55,875. I say it's worth it.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/15/2007 12:00:31 AM
0 Boost
Excuse me, the Tahoe does have leather... but it can't touch the Merc's.


komododavekomododave - 11/15/2007 2:31:44 PM
0 Boost
Theres a lot thats missing on a GL at that price that you would get on a Tahoe.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/16/2007 12:37:32 AM
+1 Boost
Prove it.

There's also a lot you get with the GL320 CDI that isn't available at all on the Tahoe.


TexLandRoverTexLandRover - 11/14/2007 8:30:26 PM
+2 Boost
The GM marketing department probably needs a good overhaul. They are way off the mark on the pricing of these vehicles. They are doing their competition some BIG favors. You've got to be nuts to pay over $50K on these trucks. The gas savings does not even come close by any stretch of the imagination. I wonder what the fully loaded price tops out at? And only a 3 year warranty ... They must be joking!


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:24:19 PM
+1 Boost
What competition??? Name the other full size SUV they're doing favors for?
And what stretch of gasoline imagination must happen for it to come close? A 50% increase is what a 4 cyl camry is to a hybrid camry. 21 mpg to 33 mpg. that just a hair over 50%. and the corolla to prius? 35 mpg to 48 mpg. Thats less than a 40% increase. And by the way, all of these numbers are right off the Toyota website on the other tab. They're the highest numbers.


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:43:29 PM
+1 Boost
Also, 18 to 27 for the Hybrid limited Highlander which is 50%.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/15/2007 12:01:55 AM
0 Boost
The Prius is much larger than the Corolla. They cannot be compared.

This increase is pathetic. It's easy to get a large percent from a small number. True engineering genius would have been apparent if they could get 25MPG out of these trucks.


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:12:26 PM
+2 Boost
To all those who have or will comment that this price is "outrageous" or "insane" try building a current one. This vehicle, without the hybrid system, is a 3LT trim level at least since it has heated seats and leather. 3LTs start at 40,200 plus the 900 destination, which is 41,100. 50,000 isn't that much more at that price point. If they used an LTZ level then it starts at 45000. 50,000 dollar Tahoes sell pretty well. They usually don't sit around on our lot. A comparably equiped Sequoia is about the same price point.
And as another point, if you need full size capability but want to lower gas prices, where else are you going to go? Toyota won't have a full size hybrid for a long while. Their synergy drive isn't made for heavy torque applications. They'll have to go back to the drawing board to make a system for the big trucks. Wondered why they don't have a hybrid truck yet? Yeah, thats why. I think its "outrageous" and "insane" that people pay 30,000 for a corolla sized vehicle that doesnt get a whole lot better gas mileage than a corolla.
All I'm saying is that it's not really outrageous when you sit and think about it AND take away any prejiduces you might have. Also, don't you want to have your cake and eat it too?


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:37:25 PM
+1 Boost
And as an aside, a hybrid Camry starts at 25,200 and a comparable Camry LE (the closest trim level to a base hybrid) starts at 20,025. Thats a 25% increase in price for a hybrid. The price increase for a tahoe 3LT to a hybrid? Drum roll please.......25% Another comparison you say? The Highlander limited is 21% higher. And the base price for a TOP model Corolla to BASE level Prius? 34% increase in price. As stated before, all of these number are straight off the manufacturers websites.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 11/15/2007 12:02:46 AM
0 Boost
The Corolla and Prius cannot be compared!


komododavekomododave - 11/14/2007 9:38:24 PM
+2 Boost
Hahaha....I just realized how many times I commented...


komododavekomododave - 11/15/2007 2:27:02 PM
+1 Boost
Fine....the corolla and the prius can't be compared, but every other comparison in price and gas mileage is perfectly valid and shows that the Tahoe is well within reason on its specs.


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