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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  Cad SUV - 2002 Cadillac Escalade
  By Inez Spangrud - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Terrific SUV. Overalll mpg with 50/50 city/hwy is 15.5 on computer. Regularly get 18mpg on trips at 75-80 mph.

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  my favorite car - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By normann - July 31 - 2:00 am

  the last car i had was a Escalade...The car i have now is a Escalade...and the next car i plan to own will be a Escalade....

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  AWESOME - 2004 Cadillac Escalade
  By Amanda Bennett - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This is a really nice ride and an awesome car.. i would recomend it to anyone, the cost is worth and it is very stylish!

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  Love my Escalade - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By diamond lady - July 29 - 2:00 am

  Awsome vehicle - I traded my 94 Caddillac Concours for a 2003 Escalade! I am very impressed! Plush, comfortable interior and what a ride! Definately a head turner...Recommed this vehicle to ANYONE in the market for a luxury SUV

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  cadillac escalade - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By fudgeglom - July 27 - 2:00 am

  This a very impressive vehicle. The options already in the Escalade are exceptional. This is the reason I will continue to purchase the vehicle.

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  Awesome Truck - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By Tiffany_Williams - July 26 - 2:00 am

  We bought the Escalade after our third son was born and have found that this truck is great for towing the boat or just the family around.. interior and exterior are classy and overall great. If you are looking for not only a family vehicle, but a stylish one as well this is the one for you.

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  Not Cadillac Quality - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By Coveman6 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  My second Escalade.I am disappointed 3.5k miles and plagued with problems. Exhaust chimes after driving 5 miles and parking as it cools. Seat heater button is too close to the power window button. Turns on heat when you try to operate window. Air conditioning has quit. Service stability alarm has come on seeral times. Cargo door needs a gorilla slam to avoid a door ajar alarm as you are driving down the street.Exhaust is mucher louder than 2002. Except for air conditioner, dealer claims these are normal and I have to live with it. Not at $50,000 I dont.

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  Wicked Awesome Car - 2003 Cadillac Escalade
  By Ben Ewing - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Well, the Escalade is awesome mine is white and it rides like a Caddy sedan. They are big but they feel small, I advize you to get one if you can afford it.

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  Escalade Problems - 1999 Cadillac Escalade
  By MsAssrtiv - July 12 - 2:00 am

  Two months after purchasing, a clunking noise started in the front end. After tearing the drivetrain apart twice, and replacing both U joints, both dealerships have given up. Dashboard was not assembled correctly resulting in large gap towards passenger side. Rear window rattles incessantly despite being repaired twice. If this is indicative of Cadillac quality, next time, Ill buy the new Suburban and live with those GM problems for $10K less!

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  J529HS REVIEW - 2000 Cadillac Escalade
  By J.D. - July 12 - 2:00 am

  GREAT VEHICLE. I HAS A LOT OF POWER. NOT GREAT ON GAS IN THE CITY, BUT EXCELLENT ON THE HIGHWAY.