Cadillac claims a 50 percent improvement in fuel economy in city driving and 25 percent gain overall with their hybrid powertrain.
The Escalade Hybrid obtains these gains by using GM’s “Two-Mode” system that combines a gasoline engine with a 300V electric motor. Further increasing economy is that the system shuts down half of the V8 engine’s cylinders during cruise, and all of them during traffic stops.
When stopped at a traffic signal, it’s necessary to feather the throttle to maintain electric power and high fuel economy. At that time, a slight whirring sound can be heard from the electric motor. In itself, the motor has excellent power to propel this hefty vehicle.
Powered by a 6.0L 332-hp V8 producing an impressive 367 lb/ft of torque at 5100 rpm, energy is sent to the wheels through a Continuously Variable Transmission that combines to allow a tow rating of 5,800 pounds. The 6.0L moves Escalade with zest although its bulk can be felt.
As such, Escalade garners a 20 city, 21 highway mpg rating. Not bad for a hefty SUV weighing in at 5,727 pounds. In fact Cadillac advertises Escalade’s EPA city rating as better than an ’08 Mini Cooper S Convertible (19 mpg), ’09 Mercedes C-Class sedan (18 mpg), BMW X3 (17 mpg) and a Volvo XC-90 (14 mpg).
As an upscale version of Chevy’s Tahoe (still the best value for a full-size SUV) and GMC Yukon, Escalade is posh and polite. The ride is compliant with good shock absorption as all Cadillac’s are noted for. Compared to a conventional Tahoe or Yukon, Escalade’s ride is softer, quieter and could be even better were it not for huge 22-inch tires. Regardless, this would be the vehicle to take on long trips to Orlando as it makes the drive less tiring. It comes standard with Magnetic Ride Control, Automatic Rear Leveling Control and HD trailering package.
Handling is stable and assuring. Escalade is planted in sharp turns with only a tad of body lean in moderate curves. Because of its bulk, Escalade is not easy to park but the rear view camera system (with tilt screen) offers a valuable assist.
Upon entering Escalade’s spacious cabin, the interior is pure upscale and pampering. The latter starts with powered running boards that slide out and retract when any door is opened/closed. This makes the 22-inch step-in an easy 11.5-inch chore.
Cushy, comfy leather bucket seats coddle occupants except for the removable (but heavy) third row, which are mainly for kids. Fold the third and second rows and there’s six feet of cargo load length. With the third row up, there’s space for a gaggle of grocery bags (10 inches deep, 49 inches wide).
My major gripe with the Escalade was with its EFF gauges that don’t completely show when electric or economy power is being used. However, the tachometer shows “Auto Stop” and “Off” indications.
Escalade is offered in front-drive or 4WD that consists of 2WD, Auto, 4Hi and 4Lo positions selectable via a rotary switch.
With every possible option and amenity one could want, Escalade bottom-lines at a whopping $75,330 after a base of $73,285. The only extra cost options were the retractable steps ($1,095) and delivery ($950).
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