Since last year’s redesign, Cadillac continues to pile on the technology and luxuries for its flagship SUV, the Escalade. Additions include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, enhanced functions and graphics performance for the CUE infotainment system, and lane-keeping assist – plus a grille bearing a new rendition of the giant Cadillac logo. There are also four new colour choices: Grey Silk, Red Passion, Crystal White, and Dark Emerald.
Based on GM’s full-size truck and SUV platform, the Escalade majors on strength. It’ll tow up to 8,100 lbs, yet it can scurry to 100 km/h in a bit over six seconds. All come powered by a 6.2-litre pushrod V8 with cylinder deactivation that develops 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard magnetic suspension compensates for the Escalade’s body-on-frame platform and live rear axle.
The Escalade offers a palatial cabin that shows Cadillac’s attention to detail. Glove-soft leather wraps most surfaces that aren’t wood or chrome-trimmed, and the front seats can even be fitted with massage functionality. A full-loaded Escalade has pretty much everything one might want in a luxury vehicle, including autonomous braking, retractable LED-illuminated running boards, quad-zone climate control, and even a built-in drinks cooler. Despite its size, the Escalade’s third-row seating is small and cargo space is quite limited; the extended-wheelbase ESV offers significantly greater people and luggage space.
Prices range from $85,720 for the base Escalade to 106,670 for the Escalade ESV in Platinum trim.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
