2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid New Orleans LA
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2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
December 10, 2009 By Zach Bowman, Contributing Editor
2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid 
2009 Cadillac Escalade
Hybrid
DriverSide Overview
A massive luxury SUV may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think “green,” but the hybrid drivetrain nestled in the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid makes an impressive impact on fuel economy. This SUV boasts all of the elegance, amenities and space the Escalade name has come to stand for while offering 50 percent better fuel economy than the gasoline-only version. Unlike other hybrids on the road, this truck boasts a potent 6.0-liter V-8 for when you’re not silently gliding around town and a seamlessly smooth six-speed automatic transmission. As a dual-mode hybrid, the Escalade can operate on either full-electric, full gasoline or a combination of both powertrains to optimize power and performance. Innovative and convenient features like a blind-spot warning indicator nestled in the sizeable side-view mirrors, a power rear lift-gate, a massive rear-view camera and Cadillac’s excellent magnetic-ride technology make this SUV stand out from the crowd.
What's to Like
This is a Cadillac through and through. The interior is as attractive and inviting as the exterior is handsome. Smart-looking gauges display a wealth of information without being cluttered, and the hybrid drivetrain is beyond smooth. Above all else, this SUV is equipped with powerful brakes that bring the 5,700-lb truck to a stop with ease. Maneuverability is also surprisingly good thanks to a tight turning radius – just 39 feet for a truck that boasts a wheelbase almost 10 feet long.
What's Not to Like
The Escalade Hybrid’s drivetrain is a star in every area except one. The regenerative brakes, responsible for replenishing the hybrid’s batteries, can be grabby at seemingly random times. In panic-stop situations, they can cause the anti-lock brake system to activate earlier than anticipated. Also, the $73,135 MSRP means this is one exclusive green machine.
The Drive
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Hands down, the best part about how this hybrid drives is that it doesn’t feel like a hybrid. That is, it drives just like any normal gasoline vehicle. Power is abundant thanks to a combined 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque available from the joint effort of a 6.0-liter V-8 engine and the electric bits. Cruise along at 20 mph, and the potent V-8 goes into “Auto Stop” mode to conserve fuel and the electric motor takes over. That means where a big SUV is usually at its weakest – in stop and go traffic – the Escalade Hybrid actually shines. Out on the open road, this Cadillac provides a comfortable ride that’s firm without being brutal thanks to the company’s magnetic-ride suspension. Steering is precise and well-weighted and the brakes ar...