SPECS MSRP: $50,945 (2WD); $53,755 (4WD) Engine: 6.0-liter V-8 with Active Fuel Management and VVT; 332 horsepower, 367 lb. ft. torque            Hybrid Propulsion Electric 2/300 volt energy storage system Transmission: GM two-mode continuous electric ration hybrid with four fixed gears Tires:18-inch all season BW Wheels:18-inch aluminum Curb Weight: 5,617 (2WD); 5,835 (4 WD) Wheelbase: 116 in. Length: 202 in. Width: 79 in. Height: 76.9 in. (2WD); 77 (4WD) EPA Fuel Economy: 21/22 mpg., recommended fuel: regular Towing Capacity: 6,200 (2WD); 6000 (4WD) Warranty: 24-hour roadside assistance, commitment plus privileges, courtesy transportation, extended 8 yr./100,000-mile hybrid component warranty Location of Final Assembly: Arlington, TX

GMC touts that fuel economy for the 2WD Yukon Hybrid, never mind its size, results in 50 percent improvement in city fuel economy, "giving it the same city fuel economy as a 2008 Toyota Camry midsize car." It is also one of the more comfortable riding large size SUV's with a quiet cabin and jar-free ride. This is the vehicle you want for those cross country road trips.

There are so many features on this loaded GMC Yukon Hybrid, potential buyers couldn't ask for more. Our two-mode Yukon hybrid came equipped with all the standard hybrid features including just a couple of options: Rear seat Entertainment System ($1,295) and Power Sliding Sunroof ($995).

 All hybrid models include leather seating, front heated seats, Premium Bose stereo with nav system, Rear camera, head curtain side-impact airbags (Front and rear), OnStar with one year Safe & Sound service, A/C, power locks/windows/mirrors, Aerodynamic enhancements (front fascia, rear spoiler, running boards), Cruise control, LED taillamps, 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Safety features are plentiful and include dual frontal airbags, head curtain side airbags for all 3 seating rows, passenger sensing system, ABS, StabiliTrak stability control with traction control system, RR door child security locks, Power door locks, programmable, daytime running lamps, and driver lockout prevention.

As expected in all vehicles of this caliber, the Yukon Hybrid has all the goodies: Assist steps, rearview camera system (a must with a vehicle this size), auxiliary rear heat and A/C, XM Satellite Radio (first 3 months free service), 115 volt power outlet, rear audio sound system controls, tri-zone auto A/C and the navigation system is complete with touch screen with CD/MP3 hybrid power flow display. Seats are power adjustable, and the driver and front passenger seats are six-way.

Lighted visor mirrors, inside rearview mirror with auto dimming, compass and temperature, tilt steering wheel and universal home remote are also standard features on the Yukon Hybrid. Rear window defogger and wiper are standard as is fixed liftglass in the liftgate.

Ultrasonic rear part assist is a life saver when parallel parking this boat. Bodyside moldings dressed up our Summit White Yukon Hybrid, as did the large words H Y B R I D printed on the lower half of the side of the vehicle. As if to shout to the world "Hey, I may be BIG, but I'm a Hybrid."

The Yukon Hybrid test car we drove was also equipped with remote vehicle start, and tire pressure monitor. The tires are 18-inch but appear much larger and provide excellent riding comfort. 

And with all the potholes in the Chicago area, this is no small favor.

One thing that took some getting use to was the hybrid "whine" when accelerating. I kept thinking I heard a siren in the distance.

The Yukon Hybrid rides on a front coil-over shock suspension and offers a much improved ride from previous generations. The 2008 Yukon is an agile and controlled vehicle. Interior appointments have been upgraded and are quite nice. The center console is large and accommodating, offering room for all kinds of gear. The two cup holder is portable and when taken out, leaves even more room for cell phones, wallets, or whatever extras you need to bring along.

The 6.0-liter V8 engine is powerful and offers an impressive trailer-towing capability. When seating seven or eight there is plenty of passenger room but then leaves little cargo area for luggage, etc. Space is better utilized with the third row seating lying flat so that all gear can be toted.

Our test Yukon was a 2WD model, but the 4WD version has a selectable full-time system that can be engaged at all times. Electronic stability and traction control are standard equipment. Although reliability hasn't been favorable in past generations for standard Yukons, the Hybrid hasn't been around long enough to build up any records.

Competitors include the Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, Lexus RX 400h.