The 2009 Cadillac Escalade comes equipped with a 6.2 L, 403 hp engine and four disc brakes. It is outfitted with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2008 Escalade was designed as a Best Buy by Consumer Guide and the 2009 version has been updated somewhat from the previous year. Car buyers looking for an updated version of the GMC Yukon or the Chevy Tahoe may be interested in owning an Escalade.

Two trim packages are available; the standard trim as a wagon or the ESV, which has a long wheelbase. Choosing the EXT model gets you a pickup truck with a folding mid gate that separates the passenger cab from the cargo bed. The Platinum model includes the manufacturer's Magnetic Ride Control Suspension, 22-inch wheels, an updated grill, and LED headlights. In terms of towing capacity, the maximum is 8300 lbs.

The Escalade wagon can seat seven people comfortably if you use a 2-2-3 layout. Eight people can ride if the second-row bench (optional) is installed. One big selling point is the easy removal of back row seats. The interior of this vehicle is sheer luxury, with heated and cooled cup holders and leather detailing.

If you don't like having to ask for directions, the DVD Navigation system available on the 2009 Escalade will solve the problem. GM's StabiliTrack, All-Speed Traction Control is a standard feature on all models, along with a road-sensing suspension.

GM has attempted to respond to consumer interest in buying vehicles that are friendlier to the environment by introducing a Cadillac Escalade Hybrid that will carry a 300-volt battery pack under it. Like other hybrid vehicles, the Escalade's motor will operate in four cylinder mode as appropriate. Mileage estimates for the hybrid version are 21 mpg in the city and 22 mpg for highway driving. Choosing a hybrid usually means that you will gain on fuel economy but lose a bit in the towing capacity department. In this instance, you will have a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 lbs.

Depending on the model you choose, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade has a basic MSRP of $59,805, but will run up to $81,435 with all the bells and whistles. Having this much luxury in your ride is going to cost you, whether you choose the hybrid or not. However, it may be argued that people who are looking for a vehicle in this price range aren't all that concerned about the cost of gasoline.