From its imposing front end and available 22-inch wheels to its power folding running boards, Cadillac's Escalade full-size SUV makes a statement that's as bold and big as it is.
Though it shares its underpinnings with the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and GM's half-ton pickups, the Escalade is set apart by its distinctive sharp-edged looks, lavish interior, and powerful powertrain. For 2017, the Escalade is mostly unchanged, though it comes equipped with a handful of new technology features.
Aimed at family-oriented customers, the Escalade gains both the Rear Seat reminder function from the 2017 GMC Acadia and the Teen Driver system that debuted in the 2016 Chevy Malibu. The former sends an audible warning to alert the driver that something - or someone - has been left behind in the vehicle, while the latter limits the usage of the vehicle's entertainment features, and provides the owner with a report card outlining the number of times active safety features were triggered.
Other tech upgrades include automatic park assist, and the nifty rear camera mirror (first seen on the XT5). Models equipped with the heads-up display receive new HUD graphics, while all vehicles receive a revised instrument cluster. Platinum level vehicles receive standard power-retractable running boards, plus a rear-seat entertainment system with new four-channel headphones. A new 22-inch wheel design is available on Luxury and Premium Luxury trim levels, while two new colours are available on all models - Dark Adriatic Blue and Bronze Dune.
Inside, the Escalade looks more like a CTS or XT5 than it does a Yukon or Tahoe. All trims have sumptuous leather upholstery, and drivers face an all-digital instrument cluster and standard CUE touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Depending on trim level, you'll find more leather on the dashboard and door trims, plus beautiful wood and metal accent trim. Heated and ventilated first and second row seats are available, as are massaging front seats.
Escalades offer seating for seven across three rows, but aft the cabin accommodations are tighter than in what some rivals offer. The second-row seat is a touch short on rear legroom, and, surprisingly for a vehicle of this size, the third row has less space than what some midsize crossovers offer. Trunk space is also limited when the third row is upright; total volume is comparable to some compact cars. For those looking to carry seven and a load of luggage, it may be best to look to the extended-length Escalade ESV, which is covered in a separate review.
All Escalades feature the latest-generation GM small block V8 engine, which, at 6.2 litres is anything but small. Featuring cylinder deactivation and direct injection, the Escalade's engine produces a healthy 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment, as is an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. Thanks to a standard towing package, the Escalade can tow up to 8,100 lbs (3,674 kg).
There are plenty of options available to Escalade customers, but buyers should note that some have a considerable impact on the way the vehicle drives. Optional 22-inch wheels might look the business, but can yield a busy ride, even when the vehicle is fitted with magnetic dampers. The 2017 Escalade also features re-tuned selectable drive modes for increased steering sensitivity, suspension firmness, and more aggressive transmission shift points.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
