You don’t have to own a hybrid or full-on electric car to help the environment.  In fact, some everyday habits that Chicago DTS owners can follow will really make a positive impact on the world around us.

The first category of friendly tips fall under the Maintenance category.  It’s an area we know we need to keep up with, but owners of Cadillac cars, Chicago Escalade models, and beyond admit that routine maintenance is not always followed to a “T”.   First off, regular tune ups can pay off big, as they tremendously helps fuel economy.  Tune-ups include checking for low transmission fluid, dragging brakes, and aligning tires, just to name a few of the services.   Also, having your Cadillac’s emission control system checked regularly is a must-do to make sure your auto’s performance is top notch. Continue Reading…

I associate Cadillacs to my husband’s uncle Phil.  He is an older gentleman that has driven various Cadillac models over the years, including the stereotypical large Caddy’s that are often associated with our elders.  However, my view of Cadillac models is changing, as the company is rolling out models that are more stylish than ever before.  One that tops the list of hot cars in my book is the 2011 CTS Coupe.  Let’s see what makes this a great choice even when placed beside other quality models produced by Cadillac, like the Chicago DTS. 

The 2011 CTS Coupe is a sassy little number that screams style and luxury.  Not to mention, it is oh-so-fun to drive.  It comes in Performance, Premium and Luxury trims with unbeatable style throughout.  On the car’s exterior you’re likely to first notice the signature front grille with the Cadillac logo beautifully displayed in the center.  Next to that the LED lights are set vertically and the set of high quality, 18-inch all season tires accentuate the overall beauty of the car.  If you turn to the back, you’ll again notice the vertically-placed lights and the exhaust pipes that come out of center, side by side, as opposed to one on each side near the tires.  Alas, you have what is referred to as “Dihedral exhaust tips”, which are part of a system that could be talked about in a blog dedicated just to that.

Engine wise, the 2011 CTS Performance and Premium Coupes come with the 3.6 liter V6 that produces a powerful 304 HP and 273 pound-feet of torque.  This is where the fun of driving this car comes in.  This is more powerful than other Cadillac models, such as the Chicago DTS Luxury trim that gives a driver 275 HP. Still a good number, but the coupe packs a little more excitement.  Cadillac also features a six-speed automatic transmission in both the Performance and Premium models.  If you desire optimal power, the CTS-V coupe comes with a V8 engine that pumps out 556 horsepower.  Simply amazing!

The CTS coupes are cars Chicago Escalade owners that swear they’ll never go small again are checking out!  They are stylish, both inside and out, featuring high quality leather and all the up-to-date technology and gauges that modern day drivers rely on behind the wheel.

A new Cadillac can be found at your Chicago Escalade dealership:  the 2010 Escalade Hybrid.  What does the newest luxury SUV have to offer?

Hybrid models can be complex, but the effects on the environment are worth it.  And they help with fuel economy, which is a plus for the driver!  The 2010 Hybrid works like this.   The engine is a 6.0L, v8 that has the ability to shut off four of the cylinders when the SUV is at cruising speed.  And the transmission is the same two-mode system used in other GMC trucks.  It is a “continuous electric ratio hybrid”.

Some other ways the Hybrid Chicago Escalade Cars work with the environment is by using a braking system that will recharge the battery- pretty clever of those GM engineers, I must say!   The battery found in the SUV is 300 volts and is located under the second row seating, so it doesn’t affect cargo or passenger space.  Good thing, because the Escalade is able to fit 8 people (7 minus the driver) and you want the guests in your auto to be comfortable!

The battery does a lot to help the SUV run efficiently.  It runs the electric AC compressor, system for electric steering, and all other 12-volt parts in the auto.  It is made of nickel-metal hydride, something different than the lithium ion batteries found in other hybrid cars at your Chicago Escalade dealership.

Looks wise, the Hybrid model looks like other Escalade models, but that’s alright, because it’s still a great looking luxury SUV with fancy features to go along with it.  Inside, there is an 8 inch touchscreen that works as a navigation system and provides an “update” of the two-mode hybrid system.  Nice to know what’s going on with your car.

These Chicago Escalade Cars with the hybrid systems are a great buy if you are in the market for something big, but want to feel like you are helping the environment at the same time.

Your future Chicago Escalade may have a subtle, but hopefully noticeable, change:  a new logo.  The company has not officially released the new emblem, nor have they set a date when it will appear on new vehicles.  The new logo looks very nice.   It has a more textured effect on both the wreath and crest.  It is supposed to be a good representation for its “arts and science ” campaign.   The design inside of the crest has a sort of retro feel to it. Continue Reading…