AJC test drive by CLINT WILLIAMS

Automotive giant General Motors shows there are many shades of green with the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, a full-size SUV with a cutting-edge drive train that dramatically improves fuel economy around town. Does it get 45 mpg like a Toyota Prius? No. But a Prius can't tow 3 tons.

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Fuel efficient: Most fuel for the money.

Body styles: Full-size sport utility vehicle

Price: Base MSRP $49,590

Drive: Rear wheel

Seating: Two in front, three in second row, three in third row

Engine: 332-horsepower, 6-liter V-8

Transmission: Two-mode hybrid; four-speed automatic

Miles per gallon of fuel: EPA estimate 21 city/22 highway

WHAT'S SPECIAL: The two-mode hybrid system uses an electrically variable transmission to manage the power provided by two electric motors and the 6-liter V-8. The Tahoe can go up to 25 mph or so on electric power alone —- if you're gentle on the pedal. The big V-8 shuts down when stopping at red lights. The result: 50 percent better mpg in city driving.

WHAT ISN'T THERE: Third-row seat accessibility. This hybrid has cutting-edge technology and old-world interior design. Moving second-row seats to access the rear demands oomph. Adults won't like riding in the third row.

WHAT WE LIKE: There is no sacrificing comfort for fuel economy in this SUV. Even passengers in the second row enjoy plenty of leg room and hip room. Backseat passengers can control their own tunes and temperature.

EXTRAS: The interior is pretty plush, thanks to the long list of standard features. A rearview camera and ultrasonic rear park assist make parking lot maneuvers easier.

In addition to the electric motors, the Tahoe is also equipped with Active Fuel Management that shuts down four cylinders when cruising.

A rear-seat DVD entertainment system is a $1,295 option.

LABELS: There's no missing the "Hybrid" stickers on the rear window, windshield and doors.

YOU OUGHTA KNOW: There is no bare-bones hybrid Tahoe available. The new technology comes wrapped up in a fairly deluxe —- and pricey —- package. Leather seating, navigation system, remote start and Bose sound system are standard features in a rig that starts at nearly $50,000.

OTHER BIG GREEN MACHINES

In addition to the Tahoe, General Motors also offers hybrid versions of its GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade, large SUVs that offer roominess and functionality, and, now, are a little greener than what we've come to expect from SUVs.

SMALLER GREEN MACHINE

GM offers not only hybrid SUVs, but also cars. We recently tested the Chevy Malibu Hybrid and found it to be quite appealing, not only because of its great fuel economy, but also because of its handsome looks. This year is projected to be a record sales year for hybrids, and with vehicles like this on the market, it's no wonder why.

Download this week's Car File on the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid at ajccars.com