New 2009 Cadillac Escalade

When it comes to cutting-edge style, refined good looks, copious amounts of space and earth-trembling power, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade has no peers.

Not only does the Escalade symbolize status and covet attention, it is tremendously powerful. It boasts a 6.2-liter, 403-horsepower V-8 beast that also makes it one of the quickest SUVs available. A heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission featuring Driver Shift Control makes the most of the engine’s power. The Escalade gains E85 ethanol capability for 2009. It comes with standard rear-wheel drive or optional All-Wheel Drive with full-time capability. Fuel economy is mediocre at best with 12 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. If those numbers are too low for your tastes, the Escalade Hybrid offers 20/21 MPG in the city and on the highway. For those who are inclined to tow their yacht, the Escalade has a heavy-duty trailering package and a towing capacity of up to 8,000 lbs. The Escalade competes with the Lincoln Navigator, Lexus LX 570 and Infiniti QX56.

What would a luxury SUV be without big, chrome rims? 22-inch 7-spoke chromed aluminum wheels are available with the V-8 Ultra Luxury Collection, which also includes heated and cooled front leather seats, a heated steering wheel, a rearview camera that automatically operates when the vehicle is put in reverse, a power tilt-sliding sunroof with sunshade, Intellibeam headlamps for superior nighttime visibility, and a DVD-based navigation system with an 8-inch LCD touch screen, voice recognition, 6-disc DVD changer, and MP3 compatibility. An optional rear-seat entertainment system features a flip-down screen and wireless headphones. A power rear liftgate with remote control makes loading a snap, while the power adjustable pedals have a memory feature to accommodate drivers of all sizes.

With all that girth to throw around, safety features are a big necessity. Dual front airbags, front side impact airbags, and head curtain airbags incorporate rollover protection for all three rows. The standard Stabilitrak electronic stability control system features rollover mitigation to help the driver stay in control during evasive maneuvers. All-speed traction control helps to minimize wheelspin. The standard ultrasonic rear parking assist makes an audible warning to drivers as they approach an object behind them. An optional blind-zone alert system has been added for 2009.

For sheer power, curb appeal, and luxury amenities, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade is tough to beat. Even with growing competition from Europe and Japan, the Escalade keeps its reputation as one of the ultimate status symbols.