The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is a big, husky, four-door SUV based on a sturdy truck platform. With seating for up to nine passengers, the '08 Tahoe is one of the larger sport utility wagons on the road today.

But don't despair, green enthusiasts! The 2008 Tahoe (along with its GM cousin, the Yukon) is available as a two-mode hybrid. And even in the regular internal-combustion models, the folks at General Motors have put a lot of effort and research money into fuel efficiency; the results may not yet be dazzling, but they're working on it.

The 2008 Chevy Tahoe is available in five trims: LS, LT1, LT2, LT3, and LTZ. Each trim is offered in both a rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive version, all with an automatic transmission. Interior touches range from the comfortable (on the entry-level LS models) to the all-out glitzy (on the LT3 and LTZ trims).

The LT models come with a 5.3-liter V8 engine; a flexi-fuel engine (the same volume and output, only ethanol-ready) is optional. The LT's powerful fuel-injected plant puts out 320 horsepower and 340 lb.-ft. of torque, with estimated mileage of 16 city, 22 highway.

Standard for the '08 Chevy Tahoe LS models is a 4.8-liter V8 with an output of 295 horsepower and 320 lb.-ft. of torque; LS buyers can upgrade to the 5.3-liter mill.

With features like rack-and-pinion steering, independent front suspension, side curtain airbags, and all the other bells and whistles we're used to in high-end SUVs, the 2008 Tahoe offers comfortable, sturdy transportation. But it's not easy on the wallet, at the dealer's or at the pump.