Yes, people will know if they’re looking at a hybrid SUV. The new Yukon Hybrid doesn’t scream out ‘hybrid vehicle’ by opting for a truly unique design style, but there are several badges to symbolize the vehicle’s “green”-ness. From a driving perspective, there’s no telltale sound (no groan, gurgle or other annoying noise) that this large SUV is switching from non-hybrid mode to its hybrid mode. Engineers did an effective job of making sure the transition is relatively invisible. The Yukon Hybrid’s patented two-mode hybrid system entails an all-new electrically variable transmission (which includes two, 60 kW electric motors) and a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack that works with a standard 6.0-liter V8 engine employing GM’s active fuel management (cylinder deactivation under light load conditions) and late intake valve closing technology. Driver and passengers inside the three-row hybrid SUV won’t notice a difference in the ride. Even though the battery (aka the energy storage system) is packaged underneath the second row seat, there is no lumpy, bumpy feel to that seat, nor is there any noticeable interior space intrusion. A 6.5-inch display screen on the center console dash provides a graphic schematic of what the hybrid system is doing at any given moment. For instance, viewers will see when the gasoline engine is in shutdown mode as well as see what occurs when the vehicle is in its regenerative braking mode. Fuel per gallon estimates for the 2WD Yukon Hybrid with standard 6.0-liter engine is 21 city and 22 highway, which is about a 30 percent improvement for combined city/highway fuel economy versus the non-hybrid Yukon. MSRP for 2WD Yukon Hybrid starts at $50,945 and MSRP for 4WD Yukon Hybrid starts at $53,755.