Although official estimates and details aren’t available, word is that the fuel efficiency will only increase slightly, from 12 city/18 hwy to 18 city/22 hwy (mpg). The body will remain the same with only minor changes to the signage of the model name.

The two-mode hybrid system uses regenerative braking and an auto stop mode engine. When the Escalade hits 0 mph, the gasoline engine shuts off and the electrical system powers it, especially helpful in heavy stop and go traffic. These two systems contribute to fuel efficiency, but hardly.

It’s hard to even call this hybrid green since the dismal mileage on this huge SUV is less than most inefficient cars on the road today.

My suggestion? Pick up a diesel and run it on vegetable oil or biodiesel saving yourself thousands of dollars a year on fuel alone each year, of course not considering the lower cost of the vehicle itself. Now that’s more green… not only in your pocket, but also to our environment as well.

Related:

• What’s a Greascar?
• Biodiesel and WVO (waste vegetable oil)
• Greasecar Videos