2009 Cadillac Escalade: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade lineup gains a gas/electric hybrid model. Otherwise, this premium large SUV gains a few new features for 2009. Escalade is basically an upscale version of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. It's available as a wagon in standard trim or a long-wheelbase ESV. The Escalade EXT is a crew-cab pickup truck that's similar in design to the Chevrolet Avalanche. EXTs have a folding midgate separating the cab from the cargo bed. Standard-length and ESV wagons seat seven in a 2-2-3 layout, or they seat eight with an optional three-person 2nd-row bench seat. The top-line Platinum Edition package includes specific trim and GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension. The uprated suspension is also standard on the Hybrid and optional on other Escalade models. Wagons are available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. EXTs are AWD only. All conventional models share a 403-hp 6.2-liter V8 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 8300 lb. For 2009, this engine can run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel.

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is only offered as a standard-length wagon with rear- or AWD. Like the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon hybrids, Escalade uses a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 engine paired with an electric motor for 332 hp. Hybrids can tow up to 5800 lb. The hybrid system allows Escalade to run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. No plug-in charging is necessary. It has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features for all Escalades include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Leather upholstery and power-adjustable pedals are standard. Newly available for 2009 are blind-spot alert and a power-tilt steering column.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Typically based on mainstream Large SUVs, Premium Large SUVs are super-sized luxury liners. All are powerful, pricey, and extremely thirsty at the pump.

Our Best Buys are the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. Our Recommended pick is the Cadillac Escalade.

The Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class both add diesel engines for 2009, while the Cadillac Escalade adds a gas/electric hybrid model.