2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV (updated 08/2008)

Back in late 2007, the hybrid world was a-buzz with GM’s news about producing a hybrid version of its popular luxury gas-guzzler, the Escalade. Well, the long wait is nearly over – the 2009 hybrid Escalade will be hitting dealer lots this fall. 

Originally unveiled at the South Florida International Autoshow and later paraded around celebrity fetes and premiers, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade hybrid will get nearly double the miles per gallon that its standard fuel counter-part can get; we are talking 20-21 miles per gallon. While it’s true that when compared to smaller hybrid vehicles, these numbers aren’t too impressive, they still represent a significant improvement in fuel economy for such a large luxury vehicle.

The Escalade hybrid will, like the hybrid Tahoe and Yukon, feature GM’s Two Mode Hybrid System, which seamlessly transitions the vehicle from electricity to gas when the situation calls for it. The Escalade will also feature regenerative braking, to store energy lost when stopping and the Action Fuel Management System, which monitors how much power is needed when driving – if all eight cylinders won’t be needed, the AFMS makes sure the Escalade just uses four, thereby conserving fuel.

Just because this Escalade is a hybrid, don’t think that buyers will have to pass on any of the SUVs signature power or luxury. The hybrid Escalade boasts a 332 hp V8 engine capable of 367 lb-ft torque at 4,100 rpm. You’ll be able to tow just about any toy you’ve got since in 2WD, the Escalade can haul up to 6,00 lb and in 4WD, pulls up to 5,700.

Inside, it’s first class all the way for buyers of the 2009 Escalade hybrid. The navigation radio will display hybrid use information, as well as house a navigation system, Bluetooth setup, a rearview camera, and music information. Optional features for the 2009 Escalade hybrid include power running boards and a rear-seat DVD system. Music will pour from a Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround Sound system and everyone will feel nice and comfy with tri-zone climate controls. Up to eight passengers will fit comfortably in this SUV and if it weren’t for the hybrid badge on car’s exterior, you might not know you were in a hybrid – the major design elements will remain the same.

While prices have not been set yet, we speculate that a 2009 Cadillac Escalade hybrid will cost in the neighborhood of $65,000-$70,000. So, start saving your pennies – it will be just a few short months before this elegant hybrid SUV is on the market! This will be the first true luxury hybrid SUV.

Can’t wait until then to learn more about this bad boy?  There’s a lot more information at Autobloggreen, and here’s some additional coverage:

New York Times
Car & Driver