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2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid represents Cadillac's attempt to blend luxury with fuel efficiency in a full-size SUV. It's based on the standard Escalade, a body-on-frame SUV. The Hybrid was available from 2009-2013. It came in a single, well-equipped trim level. The original MSRP ranged from around $74,000 to $77,000. It stood out due to its hybrid powertrain, which aimed to improve fuel economy without sacrificing the Escalade's opulent features and towing capability.
The Good

The 2009 Escalade Hybrid offers decent performance thanks to its V8 engine paired with electric motors.
It provides a comfortable and luxurious ride, appealing to those seeking a premium experience. The hybrid system marginally improves fuel economy compared to the standard Escalade, a practical benefit. Its bold design still resonates with those wanting to make a statement.

The Bad

The 2009 Escalade Hybrid's weaknesses include complex hybrid system components that can be expensive to repair.
Fuel economy gains are often less significant than expected in real-world driving. The regenerative braking system can feel unusual. The overall reliability of the hybrid components is a concern, and finding qualified technicians can be challenging.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid: Quick Overview

  • Engine: 6.0L Vortec V8 Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 332 hp (combined gas and electric)
  • Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
  • 0-60 mph: Around 8.2 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 5,800 lbs - 6,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
  • Trim-Level Features (Standard):
    • Leather upholstery
    • Heated and cooled front seats
    • Navigation system
    • Rear-seat entertainment system
    • Tri-zone automatic climate control
    • Power liftgate
    • Parking sensors
    • Bose premium sound system
    • 22-inch chrome wheels
    • Power sunroof
    • Remote start
    • Rearview camera
    • Stability control
    • Traction control
    • Anti-lock brakes
    • Multiple airbags

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2009
Make Cadillac
Model Escalade
Trim -
Style 4-Door All-Wheel Drive
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ARLINGTON
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 2794.58 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 3401.94 kg
Overall Height 188.72 cm
Overall Length 514.35 cm
Overall Width 200.66 cm
Wheelbase Length 294.64 cm
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine Hybrid V-8
Engine Size 6L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $73,235 USD
Invoice Price $68,109 USD
Delivery Charges $950 USD

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What Problems Does the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid often revolve around its complex hybrid system. Owners have reported issues with the battery pack, electric motors, and the regenerative braking system. These components can be costly to repair or replace.
Other common issues mirror those found in the standard Escalade, such as problems with the air conditioning system, suspension components (especially the air ride suspension), and electrical glitches.
Recalls for the 2009 Escalade (including the hybrid) have addressed issues like potential problems with the fuel system and airbag deployment. Long-term reliability is a concern due to the age of the vehicle and the complexity of the hybrid system. Specifically, the hybrid battery's lifespan is a significant factor; replacement can be expensive. Diagnostic challenges are also common, as not all mechanics are familiar with hybrid systems, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary repairs. Some owners have noted issues with the transmission shifting harshly as the vehicle ages.

How long will the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid last?

A 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, with proper maintenance, could reasonably reach 150,000-200,000 miles or more. Years of service heavily depend on climate and driving conditions, but 12-15 years is achievable. Long-term durability hinges on the hybrid system's health. The hybrid battery is a significant concern; its lifespan varies but generally lasts 8-10 years or 100,000 miles, after which performance degrades and replacement becomes necessary. Weaknesses include potential rust in colder climates and wear and tear on suspension components. Regular fluid changes, brake maintenance, and addressing any error codes promptly are crucial for longevity. Neglecting maintenance can drastically shorten the vehicle's lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid came well-equipped with built-in technology for its time.
Tech & Entertainment: Standard features included a navigation system with a touchscreen display, a Bose premium sound system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Bluetooth connectivity was available for hands-free calling.
Driver-Assistance: It featured rear parking sensors and a rearview camera to aid with maneuvering. Remote start allowed for pre-cooling or heating the cabin.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags (front, side, and curtain).
Optional Features: While the Hybrid model had a largely standard feature set, some dealer-installed accessories might have been available.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2009 Cadillac Escalade received mixed crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It generally performed well in frontal and side-impact tests but received lower ratings for rollover resistance. It's important to consult official NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) reports for specific ratings. While advanced for its time, the 2009 Escalade Hybrid lacks modern driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Raven
White Diamond Tricoat
Silver Lining
Platinum Ice Tricoat
Gray Flannel Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony/Ebony
Cashmere/Cocoa

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Prices and Market Value

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid had an MSRP of approximately $74,000 - $77,000 when new. Current used market prices vary greatly based on condition, mileage, and location, but typically range from $8,000 to $18,000.
The Escalade Hybrid has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, higher maintenance costs associated with the hybrid system, and the availability of newer, more fuel-efficient SUVs. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the hybrid battery, overall mechanical condition, cosmetic appearance, and mileage. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command higher prices. The hybrid powertrain's complexity also negatively impacts resale, as potential buyers are wary of expensive repairs.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Cost of Ownership

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is generally costly to own. Insurance premiums are relatively high due to the vehicle's value and size. While the hybrid system improves fuel economy compared to the standard Escalade, it's still not particularly economical. Maintenance costs can be significant, especially for the hybrid system components. Repairs can be expensive due to the specialized knowledge required. Long-term ownership costs are heavily influenced by the condition of the hybrid battery, which may require replacement. Overall, it's not an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 98.42 liters
City Mileage 8.5 km/l
Highway Mileage 8.93 km/l

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2009-05-06
Recall no. 09v154000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 27,188 MY 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Hybrid, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Suburban, Tahoe, Tahoe Hybrid, and Colorado; and GMC Yukon, Yukon Hybrid, Yukon XL, and Canyon Vehicles. THE Fuel System Control Modules MAY Have A Condition IN Which AN Adhesive Separation OF THE Room Temperature Vulcanizing (Rtv) Seal Between THE Seal and THE Housing MAY Allow Water TO Seep Into THE Module.
Consequence Water IN THE Module Could Cause A Short or Open Circuit, Illumination OF THE Service Engine Soon Lamp, Setting OF Diagnostic Trouble Codes or THE Engine MAY BE Hard TO Start, MAY NOT Start or MAY Stall Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A NEW Fuel System Control Module Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 18, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 and GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes GM Recall NO. 08411.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2010-06-04
Recall no. 10v240000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v052000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-Desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (Psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 23, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON September 20, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328780.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v053000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2013 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2010 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C."
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 24, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 11, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328790.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v050000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL, and 2009-2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and Sierra 3500 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 22, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 1, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328760.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid competed with other luxury SUVs like the Lexus LX, Infiniti QX56, and the Land Rover Range Rover. In terms of performance, the Escalade Hybrid offers comparable power but its hybrid system doesn't translate to significantly better fuel economy than some rivals.
Feature-wise, it was well-equipped, but competitors often offered similar or more advanced technology. Reliability is a significant concern compared to the Lexus LX, known for its robust reliability. The Infiniti QX56 offered a similar level of luxury and features at a potentially lower price point initially.
The Range Rover provided superior off-road capability but suffered from its own reliability issues. Considering today's used market, a standard (non-hybrid) Escalade from a similar year might be a better value if fuel economy isn't the primary concern. A Lexus LX of the same vintage would likely offer better long-term reliability, albeit with a less flashy image. Newer SUVs, even if smaller, often provide better fuel economy and more modern technology at a similar price point.

Ranks #1610 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1610 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is ideal for buyers who desire the bold styling and spaciousness of an Escalade but want to make a gesture towards fuel efficiency, understanding that the real-world gains may be modest. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition and price.
A well-maintained example with a healthy hybrid battery and a thorough inspection is crucial. It's not recommended if reliability and low running costs are top priorities. Consider it only if you find one at a significantly lower price than a comparable standard Escalade, factoring in potential hybrid system repairs. The sole 'trim' is well-equipped, so focus on condition over specific options. Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs due to the hybrid system.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.