2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid - Safety Review and Crash Test Ratings

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Reviewers criticize visibility from inside the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, but the SUV is loaded with safety features.

Five stars are given to the Tahoe Hybrid for front and side impacts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to safercar.gov, the 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid includes curtain airbags for all three rows, daytime running lights, four-wheel all-disc ABS, tire-pressure monitors, auto door locks, automatic crash notification (via OnStar), and LATCH points for securing child car seats. Additionally, 2009 models are equipped with an "electronically-controlled braking system [that] also provides full traction and stability control," according to AutoblogGreen. But these features are standard among all the Tahoe's competitors, too, save for OnStar.

ForbesAutos points out that "the side-curtain airbags remain inflated for several seconds to protect passengers in the event of a rollover"—a unique feature of the 2009 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid. Cars.com says the Tahoe Hybrid has "brackets attached to the front of its frame...designed to help it better engage with the structure of a smaller vehicle during a crash.” Three-point safety belts are standard for all seating positions, but head restraints are not available for the center positions in both rows.

The Tahoe Hybrid does have some drawbacks. AutoblogGreen points out that there are "plenty of blind spots" and "changing lanes or pulling into tight parking spaces...requires extra care." However, a backup camera and side mirrors with curb tilt are also standard equipment.