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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excellent rebuild - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Mark - March 25 - 11:24 amThis new rebuild of the Escalade is awesome. They have made many improvements from their older models. The new dash layout is fantastic, especially if you get it with the info package. The touch screen navigation is easier to navigate then with buttons and knobs. The instrument panel competes with many other luxury vehicles as well. And one great feature that this truck has that I have not seen on any other cars is the intellibeam system which puts the highbeams on when it pitch black, this is great for turnpike driving when theres oncoming vehicles. Overall I think General Motors out did themselves, and I would recommend this truck to anyone.
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The Big Dog - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By moose - March 23 - 7:37 pmThis truck is the best. I think as far as SUVs go it stands alone. Its in a class by itself. The only way to know how good this truck is is to own one. I have had many other SUVs and the 07 Escalade just takes you on another journy. If you dont own one you are missing out.
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Worthy of Cadillac Name - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Chas. - March 13 - 12:07 pmThis is my third Escalade. Have had an 02 and 04 and now 07. This is the best yet. They solved most all of my issues with previous models. Dash is lower and well laid out, visibility better both fore an aft. Seats are a little smaller but still very comfortable. New 6 speed tranny is much better on response through the full range and seems to get better mileage than my 04. Navigation system is a vast improvement. Ride is much more controlled. Plush without giving up responsiveness. Fold and tumble seats are nice but having to manually put them back up is a waste. Power lift and close rear gate is a wonderful feature.
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Ultimate Large SUV! - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Pete - March 3 - 5:23 pmThe 2007 Cadillac Escalade is an awesome truck! Its Lexus-like interior and and elegant and classy exterior along with 403 hp combine to make this a stunning vehicle! Cadillac really hit a major home run with this one!
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Amazing Vehicle - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By wreath and crest - February 21 - 2:46 pmThe 2007 Escalade is unbelievable in almost every aspect. It has plenty of power with outstanding fuel milage. Its ride is top notch, better than most luxury cars. This is the premier vehicle to have.
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SUV of your Dreams - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Mobb V - February 20 - 4:49 amI bought my 2007 Cadillac Escalade three days ago and I couldnt be any happier. When I drove off the dealership parking lot I felt like I was in another world. This SUV is amazingly powerful and outstandingly comfortable. The mileage isnt as great as my old Tahoe had, but this truck gives you a lot for the money you pay. It has awesome electronic gadgets and a lot of room for anyone who wants to ride. I plan on modifying it a little bit to make it the true babe magnet. This SUV has totally made me the happiest person on earth.
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2007 Escalade (The New Breed) - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Jimmy - February 17 - 12:47 pmThe 2007 Escalade blows all other SUVs out of the water. It has 403 Hp which nobody else can touch, not Hummer or Lincoln! I love this vehicle. Cadillac did a great job of slightly compacting the SUV and further improving its aggility and great ride. To anyone who is looking for a luxury SUV, this is the vehicle for you!
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They Have a Winner - 2007 Cadillac Escalade
By Ron - February 14 - 5:49 pmThe 2007 Cadillac Escalade looks great and drives great. Its new opitions have Cadillac written all over them. The new Escalade is finally a true Cadillac.
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GM/Cadillac Could Care LESS! - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
By CrappyCad - February 14 - 4:23 amMy 2005 Escalade has been in the shop 9 times within a 7 month period for various problems. Now Caddy says they wont fix the whistling noise in the engine, the continuous buzzing of the navigation system, the clunking of the transmission and the blurry, defective driver side mirror. I was told I have to live with it. I hope no GM/Cadillac customer will just "live with" poor quality. From one Caddy customer to all the others...they will NOT back their product. They have over 120 technical service bulletins for just the 2005 Escalade alone, while most vehicles have maybe 10-20 a year. Oh, and GMs customer service stinks! Yeah, Im mad!
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Second Escalade - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
By Bailey - February 6 - 12:36 pmI had my last Cadillac Escalade for five years and did not have to do anything, not even a light bulb change! What a wonderful vehicle, now Im on Escalade number 2. I will buy another one in 5 years. This is a heavy and dependable truck.
