Used 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid SUV Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid offers a lot to get excited about. The operating system monitors the drive system several hundred times in any given second, and analyzes whether to use gas, electric or a combination of both. The 6.0-liter V8 works with the electric motors and the electronically variable transmission to put out 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. It can even tow an impressive 6,200 pounds, when properly equipped. Sadly though, gas mileage is not nearly as good as what you would hope for in a hybrid, returning 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Although much better for the environment, this is one hybrid that is not necessarily that much better for your wallet. As for the ride, it is definitely smooth, quiet and enjoyable. Steering could stand to be a little more responsive, but with a 39-foot turning circle, it is certainly easy to maneuver.

Technology

• Audio - Enjoy balanced and crystal clear sound with a nine-speaker surround sound by BOSE. It includes a CD player, MP3 playback capabilities and a subwoofer.
• SiriusXM - Every new hybrid gets a three-year subscription to NavTraffic and three months to Satellite Radio for commercial free music and help finding the best route to take to avoid traffic.
• Rear Camera - Standard on the Tahoe Hybrid is a rear vision camera that allows you to see objects behind you while reversing in slow speeds.
• Rear Seat Entertainment - Parents will want to add on the rear seat entertainment package with a flip down screen, wireless headphones and a remote.

Safety

Crash tests have not been done specifically on the hybrid, but they have been performed on the regular 2013 Tahoe. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the vehicle with a “Good” rating in front and side-impact, but a “Marginal” rating in rollover protection. Braking capabilities were average, taking 134 to stop from 60 mph. Passengers are protected by six airbags and a steel safety cage, as well as:
• Four-wheel ABS
• Child seat anchors
• Traction control
• OnStar
• Tire-pressure monitoring
• Post-collision safety system
• Rear door safety locks
• Stability control
• Emergency brakeforce distribution
• Turn signal mirrors
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Engine immobilizer
• Remote anti-theft device

Appearance

The exterior of the Tahoe Hybrid is one you will either love or hate. Some consumers feel the boxy styling it simply too outdated and dull, while others enjoy the classic look. One unique characteristic that sets it apart from its immediate relatives are the 18-inch 12-spoke aluminum wheels that add an aggressive appeal.

Comfort

Unlike the regular Tahoe, the hybrid model does not offer seating for nine, but eight-passenger seating is standard and more than what most need. The front leather bucket seats are heated and powered, and although there is ample legroom for the second row, the third row falls short. Adults will find it hard to get comfortable in the very back. You will notice that the controls are thoughtfully placed, and there is a power flow diagram that is located on the navigation screen that allows you to monitor the hybrid system at all times.

Cargo

If you intend on filling both rear seats full-time, you will only have 16.9 cubic feet of cargo space to work with, which may be disappointing for some. However, if you don’t mind fighting to remove the heavy rear two seats, you get a total of 108.9 cubic feet.