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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  03 Escalade - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By R & D - September 2 - 5:48 pm

  After my first week of owership I became very disappointed for about the next three months because it turned out that we wound up with an Escalade that had a lemon differential. Once the service department figured out what was wrong with the car and totally replaced the differential with a brand new one, my truck started spending more time with us instead of in the shop. Although it was fun driving all the different "new lenders" they gave us to drive while the car was in the shop.

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  Fantastic Vehicle! - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By Anthony - August 27 - 10:43 pm

  I must say that Cadillac and GM got their act together when designing the new Escalade. We have the ESV model and nothing can come close to it. So far I can only say great things about this truck! It truly defies its size the way it accelerates and drives. It sounds like a muscle car from the outside and the 6.2 liter V8 loves to rev. The 6-speed auto is actually pretty good on gas on the highway. Its a bit thirsty around town but understand we are talking about an 8-passenger 3 ton vehicle here. If you need the room and are looking for a first class SUV there is nothing that compares to the Escalade! Write the check and get one!

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By VICKY - August 26 - 11:01 am

  The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is a great vehicle. We have every option in it. It is very comfortable. The cooled seats are great in the South. The remote start option is great for warming up the engine. I love everything about it.

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  Not All Its Cracked Up to Be. . . - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By LW - August 14 - 11:46 pm

  After test driving multiple Escalades over the past month, I have to say that I was completly let down. While the exterior is absolutely stunning, the interior fails to impress. The interior is not of solid construction at all. Opening the center console I felt like I was going to break it, it is very shaky. Overall the quality of the interior of the Cadillac just seemed very cheaply constructed to me. The power of the engine also failed to impress me as well. After driving it on the open interstate and flooring it a couple times, it just failed to impress.

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  You need to drive one - 2002 Cadillac Escalade
  By Ron - August 5 - 11:20 pm

  The vehicles performance is very smooth and fast. It handles well and make close turns. My sister said it turns make a Volkswagen.

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  Beautiful Ride - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By Denice - August 3 - 12:13 am

  This Cadillac is an awesome car inside and out. It has great power and all the luxury that you expect. The chrome on the exterior really makes it stand out. That was a big eye catcher for my husband and I. We are very happy with our Cadillac and have no regrets. I would tell anyone that likes Cadillac or SUVs that this is the vehicle for them.

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  Great Truck, Wow! - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By rob - July 26 - 7:18 pm

  Hi. I recently purchased my Escalade and prior to that I owned a 2004 GMC Yukon Denali. Let me tell you there is no comparison between the two. The new Escalade is just built so much more solidly. I am so glad that I choose this truck. I recommened it to any one looking for a real head turner.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By Frank&Ann - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This is a fantastic vehicle I also own a H2 Hummer and comfort and Luxery Its got it beat hands down

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  Awesome SUV - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By HAPPY GUY - July 18 - 1:20 pm

  I traded in my 2003 Escalade for the new 07 model. When I first saw them I wasnt sold, but after a closer look and examining the interior, I was sold. This truck is great...its scary how much Cadillac stepped up their game to compete with Lexus and Infiniti. The previous models had kiddie interior layouts but this layout meets the money that you pay for the truck. I am very pleased and have no regrets about spending the extra money.

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  Wonderful Wagon - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
  By jean Macchiavelli - July 15 - 11:54 pm

  This my sisxteenth brand new Cadillac it is the best yet. It rides and drives like my sedans and makes me feel like the Queen of the Road. It has great pick up, is easy to park, and makes me feel protected.