2008 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
By Mark Gillies
Attention hip-hop stars, professional athletes, and fat-wallet extroverts of all stripes: The new Cadillac Escalade is here. And to go along with your diamond-studded earth shoes, the Cadillac Escalade will go hybrid in the 2008 model year, along with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. GM claims a 25 percent increase in fuel economy.
Why upgrade? Aside from the smooth new styling--check out the size of that wreath-and-crest badge!--the new Caddy has more power, more features, and a far nicer interior. Key bragging points include: a larger 6.2-liter V-8 with 403 hp (58 more than before); a six-speed automatic; a power liftgate and power running boards; standard stability control and side curtain air bags; optional 22-inch chrome wheels; plus available navigation, remote starting, and a rear-view camera.
The regular Escalade hits showrooms in January of 2006. Those who prefer the extra-long ESV or the neo-pickup EXT will have to wait until April to get their new rides. We spotted General Motors Vice-Chairman Bob Lutz puffing on a stogie while getting chauffeured in a pearl white new 'Slade with double dubs. If the guy who can have any GM vehicle likes it, it must be good, right?