GMC Yukon Hybrid

Starting MSRP:NA
Vehicle type: SUV
EPA fuel economy: city: 17-20 / hwy: 21-25
Available engines:
300-hp, 6.0-liter V-8 gas / electric hybrid
Available transmissions:
continuously variable

Yukon continues fuel-saving evolution with new hybrid
from GMC

Last year, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL full-size SUVs delivered more power and better fuel economy than the vehicles they replaced. For the 2008 model year, they build on their segment-leading reputation with changes and innovations, including the introduction of the Yukon Hybrid.

The Yukon Hybrid features the world's first production 2-Mode full hybrid propulsion system in an SUV, offering an estimate 25 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The Yukon Hybrid can tow up to 6,200 pounds, and its Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 engine is equipped with General Motors' Active Fuel Management technology, which switches between four- and eight-cylinder power in certain driving situations.

"The innovative hybrid system is designed to deliver optimum fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving, the way most Americans use their vehicles," said Tom Stephens, group vice president of GM Powertrain. "The Yukon Hybrid doesn't sacrifice a thing. It delivers 25 percent improvement in overall fuel economy and the capability that the Yukon name has always represented."

The 2-Mode full hybrid system has two modes for city and highway driving. In the first mode, at low speed and light loads, the vehicle can operate in three ways: electric power only, engine power only, it provides all the fuel savings of a full hybrid system.

The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode provides full eight-cylinder engine power when conditions demand it.

Yukon safety features are enhanced for 2008, as head-curtain side air bags are now standard for all seating rows on all models.