General Motors has tried to combat the failing truck and sport utility vehicle market with the introduction of their Hybrid versions of the Escalade and similar models, but for those who aren’t ready for the change (or the price), GM has released the information on their Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, and Yukon XFE models for the 2009 model year. XFE is their designation for Xtra Fuel Economy, which ensures a tested average of 5% better fuel economy on the highway and 7% around town.

These increases are achieved by reducing vehicle weight along with aerodynamic adjustments and a 3:08 to 1 rear-end gear ratio. The items that were changed to improved aerodynamics include a soft tonneau cover, extended front lower air dam, lowered suspension and revised chassis tuning. Along with the reduced weight to the engine, the weight of the vehicle was reduced by adding aluminum lower control arms, aluminum spare wheel, and seventeen-inch aluminum rims. The XFE option is only available on regular cab pickups and two wheel drive models, but they do offer an automatic locking rear differential with a towing package.

While the overall mileage increase is minor, the fact is that the improvement is there, and without the huge price spike with the Hybrid models, so for new truck of SUV buyers who can afford slightly more money for slightly better fuel economy, the XFE models from Chevrolet and GMC offer just that.