When General Motors introduced the Cadillac Escalade hybrid in 2008, it seemed poised to become the automaker’s next big thing. But the hybrid luxury SUV failed to gain much traction with buyers and was discontinued in 2013.

Despite its lackluster sales, the Escalade hybrid boasts a bold, luxurious exterior based on the regular Escalade SUV, a powerful V8 engine, and impressive fuel efficiency. It maintains the same Cadillac reliability and quality, making the brand a household name. So if you’re in the market for a used hybrid SUV under $30,000, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is certainly worth considering. But which model years offer the most reliability and value for your money?

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has a distinctive and imposing exterior design based on the gas-only Escalade SUV. It boasts a sleek bodywork with a bold and imposing chrome grille, large rectangular headlights, 9-inch ground clearance, and vertical taillights extending from the roofline down to the rear bumper.

The luxurious interior is almost identical to the gas-only Escalade and can seat up to eight people. However, the third row can feel a bit cramped.

The 2009 Escalade hybrid is powered by a 6.0-liter V8 engine that generates 332 hp and 367 lb-ft of torque. It has a fuel efficiency of 20 mpg, which, impressively, is better than the 2009 Mini Cooper S. It has a maximum towing capacity of 5800 pounds.

It ranked No.13 in U.S. News‘ “Best Used Hybrid SUVs under $30K for 2023” list for its reliability and value. It has received a 5/5 reliability rating from J.D. Power and, according to Cars.com, has only been recalled four times because of airbag issues. The average price range of a used 2009 Escalade Hybrid falls between $13,867 – 14,351.

2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid resembles the 2009 model and retains the signature bold exterior design elements, such as the imposing chrome grille and vertical taillights. It’s available in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium, and Platinum Edition.

Inside, the luxurious cabin seats seven passengers, but you can opt for a center bench seat to increase capacity to eight. There’s ample head and legroom, but the third row may feel cramped for some. Standard features include heated and cooled front seats, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.

A 6.2-liter V8 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission powers the 2011 Escalade Hybrid. It churns out an impressive 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. It shares the same powertrain as the 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid and 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the Escalade Hybrid, while all-wheel drive is optional.

The 2011 model boasts an impressive fuel economy of 23 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, making it a practical and environmentally friendly choice. It can tow up to 8,300 pounds, making it a versatile and practical vehicle for urban and outdoor adventures.

Ranked No. 15 on U.S. News‘ “Best Used Hybrid SUVs under $30K for 2023” list, the 2011 Escalade Hybrid has only had three recalls due to airbag issues, further demonstrating its reliability. According to U.S. News, the average price for a used 2011 Escalade Hybrid ranges from $16,397 to 20,958, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable and luxurious SUV.

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid reliability

The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is worth considering if you’re in the market for a used hybrid SUV under $30,000. It maintains Cadillac’s reputation for luxury, quality, and reliability and offers impressive fuel efficiency and towing capacity. If you’re looking for a used Cadillac Escalade hybrid, consider the 2009 and 2011 models for the best combination of reliability and value.