GMC Yukon Hybrid
Sponsored links:
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FUEL ECONOMY:
21 / 22 MPG 11.2 / 10.69 L/100km
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BODY TYPE:
SUV
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TECHNOLOGY:
Hybrid
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BASE MSRP:
$50,500
The GMC Yukon Hybrid, and its counterpart the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, are the first vehicles to utilize the advanced two-mode hybrid powertrain developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler, and General Motors. This full-size SUV launches a new breed of larger vehicles that are significantly greener than their gas-powered versions.
The core of the Tahoe Hybrid’s powertrain is GM’s 6-liter Vortec V8 with cylinder deactivation technology. In other words, this engine can shut down four of its eight cylinders when the additional power is not needed. That saves fuel. Beyond the engine, there’s a 300-volt battery that hides below the second-row seats. The vehicle's two electric motors are housed within the transmission.
In order to keep the vehicle running at peak efficiency, this hybrid system is able to run in one of two separate modes—hence the name "two-mode hybrid." For low-speed, low-impact driving, the powertrain works just like other hybrids; it stops the V8 engine whenever possible so that it may draw power from one or both of the electric motors. The second mode is mostly for highway driving, at which time one or both electric motors can run concurrently along with the V8 engine in order to provide a power boost. The two-mode transmission is the key to the whole system, which attempts to keep the engine running at the optimum rpm for low fuel consumption. Essentially, it manages a balancing act between the V8 engine and the electric motors. It is also responsible for making the transitions between the two modes practically seamless.
All of this technology results in a 25 percent improvement in overall fuel economy over the Yukon hybrid’s gas-powered counterpart. More impressive is a 40 percent improvement in city driving. The Yukon Hybrid two-wheel drive model has an EPA rating of 21 city/22 highway, as compared to the conventional Yukon's 14 city/19 highway. Unbelievably, this huge SUV’s city fuel economy is equivalent to that of a four-cylinder Toyota Camry.
Despite its focus on fuel-efficiency, the Yukon Hybrid still delivers all the power and capability needed from a full-size SUV. It boasts 332 horsepower, and can tow up to 6000 pounds. And it is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive models. Its four-drive system is comparable to most trail-rated pickup trucks, allowing the Tahoe Hybrid to drive off-road or through difficult road conditions with excellent traction and stability. On normal, dry pavement, this SUV offers a comfortable and smooth ride, as opposed to the rigid feel of many larger vehicles.
The Yukon Hybrid grants plenty of capability for work-related endeavors, and an abundance of space and amenities for large families, even up to eight.
