Thanks to its aggressive look and colossal size, the Cadillac Escalade has served as the brand’s flagship model for long. Despite being based on the same platform/underpinnings as the Suburban, Chevy Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, the Escalade has excelled in its category. Let’s explore the features and specifications of this luxury SUV, so you can decide if it’s worth your money.
Engine
Cadillac’s largest SUV is designed with a standard 6.2-liter V-8 engine that generates 420 horsepower (a 3.0-liter diesel inline-six engine is also available as an option). While cruising, the engine can deactivate some of its cylinders to save fuel. A 10-speed automatic transmission comes standard with both engines, and buyers can choose rear- or all-wheel-drive setups.
Escalade fans who need more speed can opt for the V model, which is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that generates 682 horsepower. The performance-oriented engine can take the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just a mere 4.3 seconds.
As in the case of its competitors, the Escalade has an independent rear suspension, which provides a little extra legroom for the third row. Higher-end trims also come with an air suspension with adaptive dampers.
Fuel economy
Rear-wheel-drive Escalades are rated at 15 mpg in city driving conditions and 20 mpg on the highway. In the case of the all-wheel-drive models, these numbers drop by one mpg. The V model is far less efficient; it is rated at 11 mpg in city driving conditions and 16 mpg on the highway. The turbo-diesel engine, however, makes a significant difference, with EPA estimates going as high as 21 mpg in city driving conditions and 27 mpg on the highway.
Interior and cargo
As one of the flagship models in the Cadillac lineup, the Escalade offers the best in terms of in-cabin luxury. The base Luxury trim has faux leather upholstery, but all other trims get the real deal. Platinum models have soft semi-aniline hides. Leather-covered door panels, adjustable interior ambient lighting, and aluminum speaker grilles add to the upscale appearance of this SUV.
Infotainment and safety
The Escalade is designed with a digital dashboard, which has three stacked OLED displays, an augmented-reality navigation system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, a rear-seat entertainment package, and more. Cadillac has partnered with AKG to develop the standard and optional sound systems for the Escalade.
The Escalade also has a ton of safety features, including driver-assistance technology and the Super Cruise adaptive cruise system, which make the SUV safe to drive in any condition.