Overview & Reviews

Although the Cadillac Escalade wasn't the first luxury SUV sold in the U.S. market, it was the first light truck in the history of the Cadillac brand. Early versions drew plenty of criticism, but in retrospect, the Escalade deserves much credit for being the vehicle that transformed Cadillac's image from traditional and geriatric to youthful and flamboyant.

Much of the Cadillac Escalade's appeal is rooted in its over-the-top attitude. Generously proportioned inside and out, this sport-utility vehicle has a bold and angular face, exaggerated wreath-and-crest badging and chrome trim everywhere you look. There's no subtlety under the hood either, as the current truck's 6.2-liter V8 delivers an imposing exhaust rumble. Although quicker than many competitors, the Escalade often falls behind in refinement, from its handling dynamics to its build and materials quality. Cadillac has taken steps to address these shortcomings on the third-generation model, but there's no question the Escalade is primarily for buyers who like their SUVs large, brash and unapologetically American.

Current Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size SUV that seats seven people with standard second-row captain's chairs and eight with the optional second-row bench. The extended-length Escalade ESV, the quasi-pickup truck Escalade EXT and gasoline-electric Escalade Hybrid are reviewed separately.

Every regular Escalade comes standard with a 6.2-liter V8 that delivers 403 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, providing relatively brisk acceleration in virtually any situation. A six-speed automatic transmission handles the gearchanges and even offers a manual-shift mode for those drivers willing to press a pair of buttons on the Escalade's old-fashioned column shifter. The transmission routes power to the rear wheels on two-wheel-drive models or all four on all-wheel-drive models.

Inside, the Escalade presents a much nicer environment than its mechanical near-twins from Chevrolet and GMC. There is an abundance of equipment even on the "base" model, with items like heated first- and second-row seats, navigation and a Bose surround-sound audio system included as standard. The Luxury, Premium and Platinum trims pile on the niceties even further, but most are styling and trim elements. Despite its features list, the aging Escalade doesn't have the same look and feel as other luxury SUVs. Construction and the materials used just aren't as nice, even if leather and wood trim is included.

In reviews, we've found that the Escalade certainly delivers the pomp and power one expects from this increasingly iconic nameplate. However, there are significant practical drawbacks. First of all, the third-row seat is cramped and uncomfortable for the middle passenger and must be physically removed should you need extra cargo space. The third-row seats of competing vehicles fold neatly into the floor. The Escalade is also unwieldy on tighter roads, suffers from lackluster brakes and is very thirsty. There's also its perennial placement atop the list of most-stolen vehicles. In light of all this, we'd consider one of the many other full-size luxury SUVs as well.

Used Cadillac Escalade Models
When the latest (third) generation of the Cadillac Escalade debuted for the 2007 model year, it was the most modern and luxurious version of this full-size SUV to date. A stiff, fully boxed frame and a coil-spring front suspension provide a smoother ride than in years past, and handling is more controlled and predictable. As with the previous generation, there's no option to get four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, as Cadillac has equipped the Escalade for duty in the urban jungle rather than the one with tigers. Unlike previous generations, the third-gen Escalade no longer feels like a hastily reupholstered Chevy Tahoe.

Since its introduction, changes have been light and related mostly to new standard and optional features. The following year saw the introduction of the plush Platinum Edition while 2009 brought E85 fuel capability and available high-tech features such as a blind-spot warning system, LED headlights, Bluetooth and a rearview camera. The '10 Escalade received cylinder-deactivation technology; those models produced earlier achieve 1 fewer mpg. That year also saw the addition of new front side-impact airbags, a strengthened door design and a new USB connection for portable audio devices.

The second-generation Escalade was sold from 2002-'06. This is the model that restored Cadillac's reputation with younger buyers, as it was the first application of the company's showy "Art and Science" design language. This Escalade had a 345-hp, 6.0-liter V8 that made it one of the most potent sport-utility vehicles on the road. It also handled better than one would typically expect of a vehicle this size. The cabin had a somewhat cut-rate feel, but between all the soft leather and wood appliqués, many buyers found this easy to overlook.

No Escalade was offered during the 2001 model year, but the original version was on sale for 1999 and 2000. This Escalade was a rush job, as Cadillac needed something to fend off Lincoln's Navigator while working on the 2002 model. Aside from its Cadillac badges, upgraded leather and Zebrano wood, there was nothing to distinguish the original Escalade from GM's lower-line SUVs. Acceleration, braking and handling are sub par on this model, and we'd advise you to avoid it.

User Reviews:

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  The Slade - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By Rex - November 21 - 7:50 am

  This is a great vehicle. It sounds like a muscle car when started. The only thing that I dont like is where the heated seat warmer button is. This is because every time I lock the door or open the window, I accidentally hit the stupid heated seat button, and the next thing I know, my butt is on fire (or it feels like it). This is very frustrating. Other than that, the truck is very reliable and has very good performance. It also turns heads. I love the halogen lights as well. Overall this is a great vehicle!

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  2 D Boat - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By Deanna Curley - November 19 - 11:07 am

  We have had Cadillacs before. We also had an Acura that broke down a lot. Our Cadillacs have never broken down and have always worked properly. Our Escalade handles like a sports car and is very dependable on snow and ice. I love this truck.

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  My First Caddy - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By Mark - November 15 - 4:32 pm

  This is my first American-made vehicle in 15 years...and lovin my new Escalade. It has a wonderful ride and most of the features that I wanted (no Bluetooth -- come on GM!). The exterior styling is fantastic...just the right amount of chrome. The interior is much improved, its wonderful for an American-made SUV. GM still has plenty to learn from Lexus, BMW and Infiniti.

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  Blissed-out BLING! - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By SUPERRPH - November 2 - 9:45 pm

  I love this truck! My 9 year old son calls her the Escalady, what a lady she is! I have driven my 2007 Escalade for 6 months and 12,000 miles. I still cant get over all of the yearning stares (male and female, young and old) and comments about what a beautiful vehicle it is. After all the Escalade is at the top of the food chain. Power is delivered smoothly over the entire power curve. The engine runs quietly at cruising speeds. Push down your right foot and experience spirited acceleration along with a throaty harmonic sound of unbridled power and arrogance. Its fand finish is luxurious. The import luxury SUVs dont even come close! I looked at them all! Cadillac is back on top.

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  Best Ever - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By jean - October 27 - 6:19 pm

  This is the sixteenth new Cadillac we have bought and the best one ever. It makes you feel safe. Its easy to drive, to park, has navigation, OnStar, and all around audio is fantastic. I plan to keep this car a long time.

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  Hot and Awsome - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By hot and awsome - October 21 - 6:49 pm

  The new 2007 Cadillac Escalade has the hottest body styling on the market right now. The car is tuned for speed, but still can be driven comfortably. The engine is wisper quiet while crusing on the highway, but wakes up instantly with one touch of your right foot. So if youre looking for a luxury SUV with the heart of a sports car this is the buy for you.

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  Youve Gotta Have One of These... - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By Dean - October 19 - 12:49 am

  The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is one teriffic vehicle. I puchased all the available options with no regret. Finally, a car company not afraid to put in a remote engine starter as standard fair. Dont even get me started on the awsome cooled seats. I found about 15 little features that arent even documented, did you know the heat/air fan automatically slows (quiets) when you make a phone call so the noise doesnt interfere with the call? How about just touching the turn indicator for half a second and the turn indicator continues to flash 4 additional times. Cool stuff. The ride in this vehicle is truly the best. This truck is worth the expense. I love the new look and interior.

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  2005 Platinum Escalade ESV - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By Nancy Doyle - September 26 - 12:42 pm

  This truck is beautiful to look at. It has lots of little annoying problems though, which shouldnt happen in a vehichle of this caliber. Mine has had had blown sensors, problems with Bose stereo, and the rear DVD system is not properly interfaced with the stereo system making the radio blast when the DVD is turned off. Cadillac not responsive to fixing problems. I also have problems getting loaner vehichles when in for service.

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  Love it... - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By LEK - September 16 - 6:00 pm

  The new 50/50 body distribution of the Escalade makes for great handling and it stops on a dime. The third seat air curtain is great for those who are carrying extra passengers. The Escalade even has a number of color options. It rides as smoothly as a sedan...

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  My 2nd Escalade - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By Cricket2 - September 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my second. My first was a 2002. Obvously this is a wonderful vehicle. We do alot of traveling and we have driven for days at a time and this vehicle is great for the whole family. The kids have lots of room. My husband is 65" and he loves it. I cant say enough.