If you've been thinking about acquiring one of those large, luxurious SUVs, but can't come to grips with 12 mpg, say hello to the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.
The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid marks the first application of a gasoline-electric hybrid propulsion system in the large luxury SUV segment.
Pricing starts at just more than $70,000 and thanks to General Motor's patented two-mode hybrid system, the Escalade Hybrid's fuel economy has been improved by 50 percent compared with the gasoline-powered model.
The Escalade Hybrid is rated at 20/21 mpg city/highway and premium fuel is not required. That's significant to note, especially for a vehicle that weighs in at nearly 3 tons and features a large, powerful V-8 engine.
For those concerned about towing capacity, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is rated to tow a respectable 6,000 pounds for rear-wheel-drive models and 5,700 pounds for four-wheel-drive models.
Everyone will know you've gone hybrid because the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid features bold hybrid badging both inside and out.
Under the hood of the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is a large 6.0-liter V-8 gasoline engine that employs variable valve timing and GM's active fuel management system, which allows the V-8 to save fuel by shutting off four of its cylinders during steady cruising.
Mated to the engine is a unique transmission that features two internal 60-kilowatt electric motors.
The transmission's output is either electrically variable or stepped through four fixed gear ratios.
That's where the "two-mode" designation comes from. The transmission can provide varying ratios for low-speed, light-load operation or fixed ratios for high-load operation.
The 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack is located under the second-row seat. Recharging the battery pack takes place during driving. This occurs during (regenerative) braking and as needed by bringing the gasoline engine online.
Slip inside the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid and you'll be pampered by a truly luxurious and spacious cabin. But those who expect keyless operation will be disappointed to know that you must use a fob to gain entry and a key to start.
Another complaint one might have is that there's not much cargo space behind the third-row seat and it does not fold flat. You must remove this seat to increase cargo space.
Aside from that, this vehicle is extremely likable. As one would expect, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid's interior features an abundance of wood and leather. As you can imagine, the aroma is invigorating. |
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All the bells and whistles are amazing, including the DVD-based navigation system with traffic information, Bose surround-sound system and trizone automatic climate control system that keeps all passengers comfortable.
Operation of the powertrain is smooth and effortless, regardless of whether you're in full electric mode or if the gasoline engine is helping. And the transition between modes is almost imperceptible.
While driving around town, I purposely accelerated lightly most of the time and remained in full electric mode up to about 20 mph.
The gasoline engine steps in smoothly and is plenty powerful, adding muscle when desired. The ride is extremely smooth and most road noise is well-insulated from the cabin.
The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is a delight to drive, whether driving around town or across town.
2009 CADILAC ESCALADE HYBRID
ENGINE: 332-horsepower 6.0-liter V-8 and 300-volt battery pack powering two 60-kilowatt electric motors
TRANSMISSION: two-mode electrically variable with four fixed gears
DRI VETRAIN: two-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 20 city/21 highway
BASE PRICE: $70,735
AS TESTED: $72,780 (includes $950 for destination)
WEB SITE: www.Cadillac.com |
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