'08 vs. '09

[brb428]

I'm new here as I'm looking for my 1st Tahoe. I'd like a little feedback bewteen the differences between the 08 and 09 models. I found an 08 Z71 I really like but then found a similar 09 for slightly less $. I know the main difference is the 6 speed trans that came out in 09. Looks like Bluetooth was also new for 09, but that's not a big deal for me. Should they both have cyl. deactivation modes, or is that also an 09 feature? Is the 6 speed going to have a real significant mpg advantage over the 08 with a 4 speed? What about transmission durability and axle ratios? Are the 4 speeds always equipped with a 3.73 and the 6 speeds have the 3.42? Thanks for any feedback as I still have lots to learn!

 

[ChrisAU]

Both have cylinder deactivation. From what I understand, the mileage difference isn't significant at all, and the 6 speed can be annoying at times.

I have a buddy with an 08 who averages almost 2 more mpg than my 07 and his has more miles.

 

[bolo1g2]

I have an 09 LT and it shifts smooth and gets about 16.5 mpg. I love it.

 

[domin8]

I've driven both. Actually I own an 07 and I had a 10 for over a week on a rental. Other than the differences you already mentioned, the 10 have me about 2 mpg better. The axle ratio difference is due to the differences in the transmissions. Personally, I prefer the 6 speeds.

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[brb428]

Thanks for the feedback. Has anybody had any issues with the 4 speed in the 07-08? I also rented a 10 last year and noticed it shifted alot, but we were loaded down fairly heavy.

 

[ChrisAU]

Thanks for the feedback. Has anybody had any issues with the 4 speed in the 07-08? I also rented a 10 last year and noticed it shifted alot, but we were loaded down fairly heavy.

No issues here, but I've only put about 7k on mine since I bought it.

Knock on wood.

 

[felixgun]

Both have cylinder deactivation. From what I understand, the mileage difference isn't significant at all, and the 6 speed can be annoying at times.

I have a buddy with an 08 who averages almost 2 more mpg than my 07 and his has more miles.

Actually the cylinder deactivation and 6 speed are both significant in mpg gains. My 07 escalade doesn't have the active fuel management so it steady stays in V8. The 2010 escalade gets wayyy better gas mileage bc that's when they got active fuel management.

 

[felixgun]

Thanks for the feedback. Has anybody had any issues with the 4 speed in the 07-08? I also rented a 10 last year and noticed it shifted alot, but we were loaded down fairly heavy.

Nope no issues here with my 07 avalanche. It's got the 4 speed 5.3L and runs like a champ. VERY smooth ride and very smooth shifting.

 

[THE YETI]

No issues with ours. We're tuned tho.

 

[KMeloney]

No problems with the tranny in my '02. Really can't stand the behavior of the tranny in my '09.