2012 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The 2012 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is powered by a combination gas and electric 6.0 liter V8 engine with 367 torque. Despite its weight of nearly 6,000 pounds, the engine is powerful enough to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in only 6.5 seconds.

The gas mileage averages at 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, which is a high rating for a full size SUV of this kind. The hybrid powertrain is a significant improvement from the standard Escalade’s 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway average.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV Base Price: $73,050.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25 gallons (94l) MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 202.5 in. (514.3 cm) Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm) Width: 79 in. (200.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5871 lbs (2663 kg) Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8 people
Performance
Engine: Vortec® V8 VVT 2WD Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Shiftable Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5800 lbs (2630 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Standard 4WD MSRP: $76,400; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Platinum 2WD MSRP: $83,295; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Platinum MSRP: $85,845; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

The engine performance is the same in both options of the rear wheel or all wheel drive Escalade Hybrids. Unlike most other hybrids, the Escalade Hybrid can tow up to a maximum of 8,300 pounds in the rear wheel drive model, and up to 8,100 pounds in the all wheel drive model. This sport utility vehicle handles well for its size, due to a special feature by GM called “Magnetic Ride Control.”

Exterior

There are two main body options available for this SUV: the standard model or the ESV model that is longer by up to 21 inches. The ESV model has the advantage of being able to comfortably accommodate eight passengers.

The large front grill and nearly 22 inch diameter wheels maintain the classic look of the Escalade Series, making the hybrid model appear just as tough as its predecessors.

Interior

Both the soft, leather front seats are heated and cooled; not only that, they are highly adjustable to suit the preferences of all passengers. A built-in navigation system with a large, highly readable touch screen is included for your convenience, and the backseat passengers also have built-in entertainment systems for their own enjoyment.

There are many other extra details that can be added on for an additional charge, including heating and cooling cup holders to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature while you travel.

One of the only minor drawbacks of this vehicle is the slightly smaller third row of seating in the back, which is recommended primarily for children due to the slightly decreased amount of legroom.

Safety & Reliability

A federal government agency has rated the 2012 Escalade Hybrid with a perfect score of five stars for its ability to handle frontal and side collisions. It scored three stars in rollover tests, which is higher than many other vehicles in its class.

This hybrid SUV is also guaranteed with a warranty for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Roadside assistance is also included for 100,000 miles or five years.

The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid does not offer exceptional gas mileage compared to other hybrid cars, and it is not intended for those who are shopping for the most fuel efficient vehicle; however, it does provide some additional savings on fuel for those who prefer a powerful, luxury SUV with a high towing capacity.

It has some of the highest safety ratings of any other luxury SUV as well, making it not only one of the most comfortable vehicles in its class, but also one of the most durable.

Competition

If you’d like a similar vehicle at a cheaper price, you might consider the GMC Yukon Hybrid (MSRP $52,470; 20 city / 23 hwy) or Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid (MSRP $51,970; 20 city / 23 hwy), although both of these will certainly differ from that of the Escalade in their performance. Others that may be compared to the Escalade Hybrid include the Mercedes Benz GL350 (MSRP $60,950; 17 city / 21 hwy) and the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60.000; 14 city / 20 hwy).

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“Significantly improved fuel economy over conventional Escalade; generous standard features; eight-passenger seating capacity…Questionable value; quirky powertrain operation; reduced power and towing capacity; mediocre braking; third-row seat doesn’t fold flat.”Edmunds

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