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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  Now and Then - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By KENNETH DUNCAN - February 4 - 1:12 am

  Well the first Cadillac I owned was a 1979 Seville (new). It had some problems with the fuel margel (computer) under the hood, where it would stop sending fuel to the injectors. Then I bought a 1999 Cadillac Escalade (new) had very few problems except that OnStar kills the battery about every 18 months and that it is not very good on gasoline. Well this 2005 Escalade is very stylish, has lots of power, is comfortable, and not that bad on gas. Its gas mileage could be better, but its not nearly as bad as the 1999 Escalade that I owned previously.

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  Satisfied Customer - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By JoBun - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Could not be happier or more satisfied with the new Escalade. Its everything one could want in a vehicle and more. My Wife and I are extremely pleased with the new vehicle.

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  joshs review - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By josh socks - February 1 - 2:00 am

  i absolutely love this wehicle it has been thebest suv i have ever owned my last suv was arange rover and i sold it for the escalade and i dont regret one bit

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  Love It - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By Daniel - January 26 - 1:40 am

  I a 2005 Cadillac Escalade for my wife, but we both love to drive it. We went around looking at the competition but realized there wasnt any. On mine there is a small setback which Cadillac is trying to address, there is a small "whistling sound" which you hear when turning left or right at about 30 mph. Cadillac knows about it and so far they have replaced one part, but the noise continued. Now I have to take it back so they can replace the power steering which they claim should fix the problem. It really doesnt bother me at all unless you really pay attention. Overall they have really taken care of me at all times. I cant complain.

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  Rolling in Michigan - 2006 Cadillac Escalade
  By Morning - December 30 - 10:46 am

  The 2006 Cadillac Escalade is a great truck. It has even more features than my DeVille. It is fun to drive and has a beautiful design. I totally enjoy the XM radio and panicked when my trial period neared its end (and I was the one who said that I never listened to the radio while driving...yeah right). OnStar occasionally gets you lost although there is the capability to record the directions. The navigation system is a must. It easily guides you to your destination. The heated seats are great on a cold winters day. I could use a few more inches of leg room for driving though. This truck is surprisingly easy to park, especially with the visual and sound alarms to prevent bumping in the rear. This is a great vehicle. It gets the respect that it deserves.

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  My first American made vehicle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By msjanuary - December 26 - 2:44 am

  I love the performance of the 2003 Cadillac Escalade as a whole. The gas mileage is tough, but it drives like a dream. I have owned Mercedes and Lexus and the comfort on this Escalade runs circles around those cars. I love how high it sits and the way it handles through mountains. I generally keep vehicles for three years, but I will keep this an extra year then buy the new model. It is super.

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  My First SUV and My Wife wont share - 1999 Cadillac Escalade
  By jsheesley - December 11 - 12:40 pm

  I am the second owner of my 1999 Cadillac Escalade. It had 53,000 miles on it when I bought it and I paid $18,000 for it. It was cheaper much than a new one. I got the Cadillac luxury for a Chevrolet Tahoe price. I love the heated seats, Boise stereo, security sys, and Vortex engine. But who was the fool engineer who put the oil filter horizontally above the 4 wheel drive transfer case? Oil runs down my arm everytime I change it. I have hauled 20 bags of cement or 25 cement blocks with no set down problems. This truck has a great suspension. I had to change the front disc rotors, they worpt. Also, the front suspension rubber bumpers needed replaced. This truck tows a 20 ski boat no problem. When in 4WD the front end is jumpy. But 2WD provides a great ride. The tail gate hard for my wife to get down but its better that the double doors. I will buy a used one again...

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  Big and Brawny - 2006 Cadillac Escalade
  By Paul of Las Vegas - December 9 - 7:22 pm

  The professional reviews talk about the Esacalades dated interior, but I think they miss the point. The interior works: its practical, comfortable, and high quality. It may not match the latest BMW or Audi, but thats part of its thugish charm. I test drove a few SUVs, but most were ruled out by the lack of 7-8 seats, the poor customer service of the dealer, or looks. In the end, the only two contenders were Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade. I was surprised by the Lades driving, quality, engine performance, ride, handling, and finally, all those practical touches: from the walk-thru center seats to the Onstar cell phone. I love it - highly recommended!

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  Love it! - 2000 Cadillac Escalade
  By RJ Howard - December 8 - 7:00 pm

  This is my first domestic vehicle in ten years and I do love it. It has some of the typical GM creaks and such, but nothing major at all. Also it is a bit low on power, but it is a big truck. It has been a joy to own.

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  Cadillac Escalade - 2002 Cadillac Escalade
  By john - December 2 - 8:52 pm

  This Cadillac is a blast to drive. The acceleration is quick and powerful. It has OnStar for any emergencies which is good. It takes time getting used to all of the space that it takes in different lanes compared to a passenger car though.