Big SUV’s. They really are popular aren’t they? Why they are big, safe, and secure and they give you a feeling of superiority while driving, which instills confidence. They also drink more than a sailor, which is why SUV’s have been targeted as enemy numero uno by the automotive universe. GM is about to change all that though (or so they say…) with the introduction of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Now you can have your cake and eat it too, as they say.

Cadillac recently set the price of it hybrid Escalade at $71,685, including a $950 destination charge. That adds up to a $3,600 premium over the regular Escalade. Not bad considering the fuel savings. Fully loaded Escalade Hybrids top out at $75,330 since the only two options are four-wheel drive system costing $2,550 and power running boards at $1,095.

The Escalade Hybrid uses GM’s advanced two-mode hybrid technology, developed in cooperation with BMW, Daimler and Chrysler. It uses a electric motor to piggy-back on a conventional V8 powertrain.

The EPA claims a two-wheel-drive Escalade Hybrid will returns 20 mpg in city driving and 21 mpg on the highway. A conventional Escalade returns 12 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway, so it’s a considerable savings in suburban environments where cars like these spend most of their lives.

Look for the new 2009 Escalade Hybrids to start showing up at Cadillac showrooms by next month.

Above: A fancy-schmancy dash display let’s you keep check of the hybrid system…