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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  Good Ride - 2006 Cadillac Escalade
  By Tom - October 31 - 9:04 pm

  The Escalade is a great SUV. I am surprised that it does not come with rain sensitive windshield wipers however. Some SUVs that cost $20,000 less at least have that option. One of the big pluses with this vehicle is the dealer network. My dealer was great - it only took an hour and a half from the time I set foot in the door until the paperwork was all done and I was on my way. If youre looking for a large, luxury SUV that other drivers on the road respect due to its size, this ones a winner.

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  What an SUV, What an SUV - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By I gotta Escalade - October 25 - 6:36 pm

  The Cadillac Escalade is a very nice SUV even eith gas prices rising. I bought a 2003 White Diamond Escalade and it draws attention when people see it going down the road. It enables me to carry all of my family at once and be comfortable. It also enables me (the driver) to be comfortable and have fun. Truly it is a good, stylish luxury vehicle.

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  Best SUV - 2006 Cadillac Escalade
  By ME - October 11 - 11:16 am

  This is the best SUV out there. After 3 years of absolutely no problems with my first Escalade, I couldnt resist getting another one. It is luxurious AND reliable! It handles better than most cars!

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  Escalade - Style! - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By Alex - October 9 - 3:31 am

  This is the first SUV that I have ever owned and it will now be hard to go back to a normal car. My previous car was a Lexus IS300 which I loved as well. I haul around a lot of computer servers so upgrading to the Escalade made a lot of sense and it has not let me down. I have not had any major problems and the ride is smoother than expected. I would buy another Escalade in the future.

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  Love this Car!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By Love Caddy - October 2 - 10:00 am

  Cadillac Escalade is the BEST SUV ever, hands down. The ride is smooth like a car and it has every option standard that you can think of. I will never own another SUV!

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  2002 Cadillac Escalade - 2002 Cadillac Escalade
  By Betty Branum - September 24 - 2:46 pm

  At first I was not using the Escalade, because I was driving my old car, a Chrysler Cirrus LXI, trying to sell it. I must admit I was a little scared to drive the big SUV, because it was so much bigger than what I was used to. When I took my first trip in this Escalade, I was hooked. I LOVE it. It takes a little more gas than some vehicles, but the drive and ride overrides the cost. It is far superior to other vehicles I have driven.

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  Complete suprise - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By wclay - September 20 - 2:00 am

  after owing several new vehicles this has been the most rewarding.

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  Cadillac Escalade - 2005 Cadillac Escalade
  By Robert - September 9 - 3:50 am

  Car is exceptional to drive and is very comfortable and roomy. It meets my needs and expectations in an SUV with the exceptiond of gas mileage (about 14-16 mpg). The electronics and automatic features are wonderful with the way the electronic sunroof closes automatically upon exiting the vehicle. The backup warning feature is also quite helpful. Since I did not get the navigational system, the rear camera feature is not avaiable. The exterior styling and engine size of the vehicle, puts it ahead of other comparable vehicles, in my view.

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  It did its job well - 1999 Cadillac Escalade
  By rwp - September 1 - 1:25 am

  I bought this vehicle used with approximately 40,000 miles on it. I was looking for a good family SUV with some luxury. That is what I got. Gas mileage is poor, but I knew that going in. The leather seats are great, sound system is BOSE need i say more, OnStar, and a rocking entertainment system with UHF/VHF antenna on rear side windows for local programming ( you dont see that anymore). Vehicle has required some work, but nothing serious, extended warranty covered it. In the end w/gas prices and increased drive to work it has become uneconomical to own. Would reccommend to anyone with short commute.

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  Love my Escalade AWD - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By Happy Customer - August 29 - 10:10 pm

  I just baught a used 2003 Cadillac Escalade AWD. I love it. I have owned many cars and SUVs, from Lexus, Mercedes and many others. Not only does my Escalade look cool but it drives as good as it looks. I did put on 22" rims. Only problem with the wheels is the Escalade attracts alot of attention. Sometimes it can be unwanted attention but I wouldnt change a thing.