The Chevy Tahoe, whose siblings include the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade, adds a new 6-speed automatic transmission and safety features for 2009. Able to seat nine passengers, the Tahoe offers five trim lines: LS, LT1, LT2, LTZ, and a gas/electric Hybrid. Each line is available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or GM's Autotrac four-wheel drive, which includes a low-range off-road gear.

The base model rear-wheel-drive LS offers a 4.8-liter V8 that outputs 295 hp through a 4-speed automatic. A 5.3-liter V8 that produces 320 hp and couples to the new 6-speed automatic is optional on the LS and standard on all the other trims except the Hybrid. In the LTZ trim, Chevy offers a 6.2-liter V8 producing 385 hp mated to the 6-speed as an option. In response to fuel-economy concerns, the 6.2-liter V8 and certain versions of the 5.3-liter V8 can run ethanol-blended E85 fuel. The 4.8-liter and 5.3-liter V8s provide further fuel conservation with GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation system. The V8s are rated at a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds.

EPA estimates for the various engine/drive combinations are: 2WD 4.8-liter V8 - 14/19 mpg; 2WD 5.3-liter V8 - 14/20 mpg; and the 4WD 5.3-liter - 14/19 mpg. The 6.2-liter V8 hasn't been rated yet.

Chevy's most ambitious SUV fuel-economy bid comes with the Tahoe Hybrid. It combines a 6.0-liter V8 with an electric motor to produce a total of 332 hp. The Hybrid powerplant couples with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to give the vehicle a 6,200-lb towing capacity. EPA fuel economy estimates are 20/20 mpg.

Standard safety features on all trim levels include front seat and side curtain airbags, ABS, the StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System, and the OnStar emergency communication system. The LTZ trim also offers a blind-spot alert system as an option.