2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE HYBRID “Well Equipped” is an Understatement by Judy Gell, Journalist www.CarColumns.Net      A week-long test drive was not my first opportunity to drive the Hybrid Escalade.  An event was held at the Frontiers of Flight museum at Love Field Airport in Dallas, Texas,  I was privileged to preview this beautiful vehicle then.   A true SUV, the Escalade seamlessly switches from a traditional gasoline fueled engine to an electric motor, maintaining power while saving fuel and dramatically reducing emissions.  While not a brand new technology, hybrids have been improved and offer the consumer the choice to save on fuel and significantly reduce the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere.

     Presented as the “World’s First Large Luxury Hybrid SUV”, the Escalade fulfills all expectations.  Powered by a Vortec 6.0-liter V8 SFI, LIVC engine with active fuel management paired,  with 2-mode hybrid transmission,  and complemented with a hybrid propulsion electric motor with 300V energy storage system, the Escalade is capable on-road, off-road and when hauling or towing.  A heavy-duty trailering package is standard equipment.  With rear wheel drive, magnetic ride control, automatic rear leveling control and 4-wheel disc antilock brake system, the performance of the Escalade is impressive!

     While enjoying the performance of this amazing vehicle, you are pampered in the cabin with a long list of standard features.  14-way power front seats with heated and cooled cushions and backrests might be the first things you notice.  When used in conjunction with the power tilt steering wheel and adjustable pedals, each driver can find their own most comfortable driving position.  DVD-audio navigation with a 6-disc CD/DVD changer adds convenience and enjoyment for the family.  Bluetooth for phone is another wonderful convenience.  The rearview camera system is more than convenient—it is a safety feature that I came to depend on very quickly.   Power liftgate, remote vehicle start, rain sense wipers, power fold mirrors with heat, curb view and signals are more features that make driving or riding in this vehicle an experience you just may not want to end when your reach your destination!  My favorite feature is probably the lane occupied light on the side mirrors that shows a vehicle in the lane to your left or right and just slightly behind you.  This is the traditional blind spot; I was taught in driver’s ed to turn my head and look over my shoulder rather than depend entirely on the mirrors.  This feature is a safe solution to the blind spot dilemma.  (Yes, I’m that old.  Driver’s ed is not what it used to be!)

     Safety and security is all that one would expect in a premium vehicle.  Air bags, seat belts, brakes, tire pressure monitoring, rear park assist, stability control with traction control system, remote keyless entry and theft deterrent system all work together to make the Escalade safe for driver and passengers alike.  The Escalade has earned five star ratings for both frontal and side crash tests.

     Very few options are offered for the Escalade Hybrid; it already just about has it all.  My test model had power retractable assist steps for an added $1,095.00, bringing the total vehicle price to $72,780.00.  Estimated fuel economy is 20 miles per gallon for city driving and 21 on the highway.