With the big 3 American auto makers scrambling to shift their production to smaller vehicles to meet this recession era demand, the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is unchanged from 2007 and offers a compromise to those looking for a big truck with reasonable or even good fuel economy. The current Chevrolet Tahoe already gets the best fuel mileage of any truck in its class, 15mpg city, 21mpg highway. The improvement in fuel efficiency Chevrolet promises will be especially evident in city driving, where Tahoe's Active Fuel Management, and two-mode hybrid technology will really shine.

Available in two trims, the 1HY 2WD rear-wheel or the 1HY 4WD 4-wheel drive, the Tahoe Hybrid can be configured in any number of ways, including seating for nine. Chevrolet also boasts that the Tahoe can tow up to 6000lb with its electronically variable transmission. Tahoe Hybrid rings up an MSRP of $49,590 for the two-wheel drive and $52,395 for the 4-wheel drive. Handling the big SUV is assisted with the StabiliTrak Vehicle Stability Control System and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes.

The Hybrid SUV is surprisingly well-equipped safety-wise with driver and front passenger airbags, side head curtain airbags, and a rollover sensor standard. Technology goes beyond the propulsion system with anti-lockout, child-proof safety locks on the rear doors, and universal garage door opener. With 8 cup holders and console storage on the floor, Tahoe boggles the mind with all of its storage options.

Maneuvering the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid on city streets, in and out of tight parking spaces, and on scenic mountain roads is facilitated by its 18" all season tires, power side-view mirrors, and deep tinted glass. Despite the small car surge going on in America right now, Chevrolet has dialed in a promising champion to allay the fears of big SUV manufacturers of an impending extinction.