The thumping, rap-ready Bose stereo promotes blasting of out-of-character music, while a central screen houses controls for the navigation system. Power adjustable pedals and a backup camera assist the vertically challenged and parking challenged, respectively, and a flip-down DVD player was included for rear-seat passengers to enjoy.
Rollin'
Wind and road noise are kept well in check, working with the quiet drivetrain for a unique, peaceful and somewhat isolated driving experience. Steering is light and effortless, though not entirely devoid of feel. In fact, the Escalade Hybrid will play ball if you feel like a romp through some twisty roads.
Even with 22-inch wheels bolted up, the magnetic suspension does a decent job of ensuring a comfortable ride in most situations. Remember that the Escalade is a truck-based SUV though, and that it can deliver a stiff, jiggly ride on rougher roads.
Visibility isn't terrible, though it is impeded at the very rear corners. Oversized, chrome-capped mirrors compensate, and even included a 'Side Blind Zone' alert system. Basically, an illuminated icon on either mirror warns drivers if another motorist has become hypnotized by spinning chrome and wound up lost in the Escalade's blind-spot.
Acceleration is adequate when drivers are in a rush, with the six-litre V8 firing up in a jiffy when it's services are needed. It leaves nearly 340 lb.-ft of torque on continuous standby. Of course, Escalade can cruise at low speeds completely on electric power, for instance while navigating a drive thru line or cruising the strip.
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| The thumping, rap-ready Bose stereo promotes blasting of out-of-character music. |
Rollin'
Wind and road noise are kept well in check, working with the quiet drivetrain for a unique, peaceful and somewhat isolated driving experience. Steering is light and effortless, though not entirely devoid of feel. In fact, the Escalade Hybrid will play ball if you feel like a romp through some twisty roads.
Even with 22-inch wheels bolted up, the magnetic suspension does a decent job of ensuring a comfortable ride in most situations. Remember that the Escalade is a truck-based SUV though, and that it can deliver a stiff, jiggly ride on rougher roads.
Visibility isn't terrible, though it is impeded at the very rear corners. Oversized, chrome-capped mirrors compensate, and even included a 'Side Blind Zone' alert system. Basically, an illuminated icon on either mirror warns drivers if another motorist has become hypnotized by spinning chrome and wound up lost in the Escalade's blind-spot.
Acceleration is adequate when drivers are in a rush, with the six-litre V8 firing up in a jiffy when it's services are needed. It leaves nearly 340 lb.-ft of torque on continuous standby. Of course, Escalade can cruise at low speeds completely on electric power, for instance while navigating a drive thru line or cruising the strip.
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| Acceleration is adequate when drivers are in a rush, with the six-litre V8 firing up in a jiffy when it's services are needed. |