Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV Review
SUV Reviewer
The 2012 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV offers a smart alternative for those who are in the market for a full-size luxury SUV but are environmentally conscious and are looking to save an average of 5 to 7 miles per gallon or better. The powertrain of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is a two mode gas/electric combination that is extremely effective in low speed urban driving and under light load conditions and the high-powered V8 kicks in when travelling at higher speeds or pulling a heavier load. The transmission, however, is somewhat slow to respond under full power and the towing capacity does not quite meet the expectations of someone buying a vehicle of this size, but the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is sure to offer those who need a wide variety of applications in a vehicle of its class.
There are two trim levels for the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV, a base model and a high-end model. The base model is outfitted with an adaptive suspension, 22-inch alloy wheels, sunroof and roof rack, and a power rear liftgate while the inside is appointed with seating that is trimmed with leather, climate control with three zones, front seats that are powered, heated and ventilated with memory for the driver seat positions, a navigation system with real-time traffic, an audio system with ten Bose surround-sound speakers and a DVD entertainment system for the rear seats. The higher-end model of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV adds leather upholstery, a front fascia that is unique in design, and running boards that are power-retractable.
The powertrain of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is a combination of a 6.0-liter V8 and a pair of 60-kilowatt electric motors that are part of the automatic transmission. A battery pack is located under the second row seat. Continuously variable gearing in the transmission enables the engine to run more efficiently and help to produce a powertrain that can generate 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of four-wheel or rear-wheel drive. The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV can be powered by the electric motors only at speeds less than 30 mph, after which the V8 engine will take over at higher speeds and under heavier loads. Fuel consumption is reduced by a cylinder deactivation system and regenerative braking charges the batteries while the vehicle is coasting or is stopped. Fuel economy for the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is rated at 20 mpg in the city, 23 miles per gallon on the highway and 21 mpg combined with either four-wheel or rear-wheel drive.
The interior of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV seats eight although the rearmost seats can be somewhat cramped for larger passengers. With these seats removed, the cargo capacity of the vehicle is 109 cubic feet.
Driving the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is a mixed experience. Travelling at low speeds under electric power, the ride is pleasant and the cabin is peaceful yet at higher speeds, you are aware of the hybrid powertrain at work producing a noisier cabin and a stiffer ride resulting from the 22-inch wheels. The regenerative braking system also requires some adjustment as the pedal gives feedback when trying to come to a smooth stop.
There are two trim levels for the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV, a base model and a high-end model. The base model is outfitted with an adaptive suspension, 22-inch alloy wheels, sunroof and roof rack, and a power rear liftgate while the inside is appointed with seating that is trimmed with leather, climate control with three zones, front seats that are powered, heated and ventilated with memory for the driver seat positions, a navigation system with real-time traffic, an audio system with ten Bose surround-sound speakers and a DVD entertainment system for the rear seats. The higher-end model of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV adds leather upholstery, a front fascia that is unique in design, and running boards that are power-retractable.
The powertrain of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is a combination of a 6.0-liter V8 and a pair of 60-kilowatt electric motors that are part of the automatic transmission. A battery pack is located under the second row seat. Continuously variable gearing in the transmission enables the engine to run more efficiently and help to produce a powertrain that can generate 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of four-wheel or rear-wheel drive. The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV can be powered by the electric motors only at speeds less than 30 mph, after which the V8 engine will take over at higher speeds and under heavier loads. Fuel consumption is reduced by a cylinder deactivation system and regenerative braking charges the batteries while the vehicle is coasting or is stopped. Fuel economy for the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is rated at 20 mpg in the city, 23 miles per gallon on the highway and 21 mpg combined with either four-wheel or rear-wheel drive.
The interior of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV seats eight although the rearmost seats can be somewhat cramped for larger passengers. With these seats removed, the cargo capacity of the vehicle is 109 cubic feet.
Driving the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV is a mixed experience. Travelling at low speeds under electric power, the ride is pleasant and the cabin is peaceful yet at higher speeds, you are aware of the hybrid powertrain at work producing a noisier cabin and a stiffer ride resulting from the 22-inch wheels. The regenerative braking system also requires some adjustment as the pedal gives feedback when trying to come to a smooth stop.
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2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has all the features of a full-sized gasoline-powered SUV. Along with the great design and comfortable interior, this luxury SUV possesses safety features like airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that enhances the stability of the vehicle. Some other safety features such as a rear-view camera, traction control and On Star Automatic Crash Response system have also been added to enhance the safety of the vehicle. It offers efficient fuel economy and large storage capacity as well. Overall this SUV is suitable for those who need to buy something new in the SUV line-up.