For 2011, the Escalade uses much more discrete hybrid logos on each fender vent and one on its rear. The Escalade has a four-speed automatic transmission, active fuel management and two-mode Hybrid propulsion electric motor alternator with 300V energy storage system, a 600 amp heavy duty battery with rundown protection, a 24.5-gallon fuel tank, rear locking differential, automatic rear leveling control, magnetic ride control, antilock brake system, 4 wheel disc brakes and 22” chrome wheels to provide that “on top of the world” view.

from the Inside, the 2011 Escalade offered Luxury and convenience features in the Platinum edition with its cocoa/linen interior include a leather-wrapped IP top pad and door uppers, olive ash and walnut burl wood, aluminum-trim accents, first and second row Tehama Aniline leather seats, Nuance leather for the third-row seat, door sill plates with badging, heated and cooled cup holders, and rear-seat entertainment with independent front-row 7” DVD head restraints and independent 8” overhead screen, unique upper and lower front grille, and LED headlamps. To complete the “your wish is my command” theme, the Escalade has a power sliding sunroof, power retractable assist steps, and a power lift-gate with lift-glass.

The Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid is overpriced, and it’s fallen behind the competition. If you need this much space and are dead set on a Caddy, though, we can see a good argument for going with the Hybrid. At a modest premium of around $3,300, if you drive a bunch, you’ll probably even earn your money back. And despite not being the latest and greatest in its class, the Escalade Hybrid remains surprisingly enjoyable to drive, and it’s loaded with top-shelf features that help make it a comfortable cruiser for trips long and short. The competition may have nothing to worry about at the moment, but for the moment, this King Caddy still offers inimitable style with a green lining.