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. |
