Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
Sponsored links:
-
FUEL ECONOMY:
18 / 22 MPG 13.07 / 10.69 L/100km
-
BODY TYPE:
SUV
-
TECHNOLOGY:
Hybrid
-
BASE MSRP:
n/a
The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is the first luxury SUV available in Extra Large. All the amenities you could expect from a Cadillac; all the capacity to carry eight passengers; and half the fuel consumption. Critics may draw the analogy of a supersized meal with a diet soda, but facts are facts: The full hybrid system from General Motors grants the Escalade Hybrid a 50 percent improvement in city fuel economy compared to the standard, gas-powered Cadillac Escalade.
The Escalade Hybrid is expected to post fuel economy of 18 city/22 highway, as opposed to the gas version’s 12 city/18 highway. It can drive on electric-only power for speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The hybrid system combines an electrically variable transmission, 300-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack, and a beefy 6.0-liter V8 gas powerplant. The result is a truck-like 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. To mitigate fuel consumption from the V8 engine, GM uses cylinder deactivation, which shuts down four of the eight cylinders when less power is needed, such as during steady highway cruising.
The Escalade Hybrid will be available in two- and four-wheel drive, and will deliver up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity. Perfect for weekend boaters?
The essence of the Cadillac brand has always centered on status. The Escalade is the embodiment of this overall image, inside and out. It’s large, eye-catching, and has tremendous presence on the road. Within, its opulent cabin is loaded with high-end amenities and the finest materials. The Escalade captures exactly the level of luxury represented by the Cadillac brand. For that reason, it’s the Cadillac flagship. It remains to be seen if the hybrid badge, which has come to symbolize environmental awareness, will add to—or undermine—the Cadillac Escalade’s persona. GM’s is using “Intelligent Indulgence” as its marketing slogan for the blend of Cadillac comfort and hybrid worldliness.
The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is for those who have no intention of giving up size, status, comfort, or performance—but still have an inkling of a concern for the environment. How many people fit this profile? That’s a good question. We’ll find out when the Escalade Hybrid goes on sale in the fall of 2008. No definitive word on pricing yet.