2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid

This review will be short because this is basically much akin to the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid reviewed earlier, just cheaper and scaled back some.

The 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid was brought to market this year with economy in mind. People who need large SUVs were tired of getting seven mpg on a regular basis. So GMC tossed some Hybrid technology in to help people cope with ever rising gas prices. The engine in the GMC Yukon is a 6.0L V8 combined with the same two 60kW electric motors found in the Escalade cousin. The horsepower rating is a however considerably down versus the Escalade at only 332hp on tap when demanded. However, as a benefit to less horsepower, you get a whopping 1 or 2 mpg increase ( I think I'll take the extra horsepower instead ).

The exterior of the GMC Yukon is drastically changed versus the Escalade which is almost identical to it's non-hybrid brother. Not counting the almost 13 badges advertising that you are a tree hugger driving a school bus, the changes could easily set you apart to the discerning eye. The front facia is changed on the Hybrid version for better aerodynamic as are the mirrors, side skirts and rear bumper. The roof rack was removed unless requested and the wheels were replaced with lightweight and some what stylish variations. So, these aero improvements are what help to contribute to that increase of 1 or 2 mpg we spoke of earlier.

Inside, you get basically the same dash and layout found in the non-hybrid version of the Yukon except for an added Hybrid feature found on the Escalade which shows exactly what the Hybrid system is doing at any give point in time. Definitely a neat gadget to show your friend so they know you are not messing around about being ecologically friendly. We know you are doing it to save gas, but your friends do not have to know that.

The suspension in the Yukon is slightly rougher than on the Escalade. Hitting bumps on the road seem to send noises and vibrations through the cabin that seem to never end in comparison to the Escalade. However, this vehicle also costs considerably less than the Escalade as well. With added incentives, the price of this vehicle comes down from astronomical to almost affordable putting it very close to the Chevrolet Tahoe which is not nearly as economical on fuel.

If you need a large SUV ... and I mean really need one, not because you feel safer driving a school bus to work. Get the Cadillac Escalade if you can afford it. If you are on a budget... get the GMC Yukon. Don't think that by buying a 9 passenger hybrid to drive only yourself to work is going to make you a better person. If you need the space this is the way to go. If you don't, get something smaller. You'll thank me next time you try to pull into a parking space and you won't have to do a 3 point turn to do it.