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.

Moreover, driving your auto responsibly will also lessen the toll it may take on the world around us.  As hard as this is for some, driving the speed limit greatly increases the fuel economy of your Chicago DTS, SRX or other fine Cadillac model.  For example, driving the posted 65 mph speed limit instead of speeding up to 75 increases fuel economy by almost 10% and the lower speed lessens tailpipe pollution as well.  Avoiding stop and go traffic when possible and  eliminating hard and fast braking will decrease harmful emissions and other pollutants.

When heading to your favorite fill-up location, some gasoline savvy drivers remember these  important tips.  Use regular unleaded gas whenever you can, unless your Cadillac model specifically states that your use a premium or a higher octane.  Not only are these more expensive, but they don’t have any direct effect on improving fuel economy.   Furthermore, avoid topping off.  Gasoline that is spilled is not only wasteful, but it can run off into our drinking water supply and evaporates into the air, contributing to smog formation.

Some other suggestions for green driving include carpooling if you can, biking or walking to work, or taking advantage of any other workplace incentives for employees to reduce reliance on their autos.  Doing so is not only good for our environment, but may be a good way to get yourself moving more and feeling good!

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.

Now that Cadillac is revamping its logo, what is up for some of its models?  Your Chicago Escalade cars hitting the market for 2010 will have much to offer the potential driver.  It is a perfect full size SUV for the large family, or for the driver who needs to transport a lot of stuff.  In fact, this model ranks 1 out of 11 in the Luxury Large SUV category.  It also has a powerful 6.2 liter V8 engine that comes with a feature called cylinder deactivation.  What this means is that four cylinders will shut down when they are not needed, which saves on fuel costs.

Furthermore the Chicago Escalade has received high marks on its overall Performance, Interior, Exterior, and Reliability tests.  It is a great vehicle that is worth the test drive if you are in the market for a new SUV.

Check out your local dealer to see this model and other amazing used Cadillac Chicago models.