There are many more expensive vehicles out there. However the Cadillac Escalade is one of the most popular and well known status symbol vehicles on the market today. This huge SUV has a very bold presence that cannot be missed. The Escalade is not only a status symbol to those who are more fortunate, but it is also a very luxurious and capable SUV. The Cadillac Escalade is not just a good looking vehicle, but it is equipped for serious driving and some major comfort on the interior.
The Escalade has some good news for those who are concerned about its gas guzzling ability. Cadillac has implemented a fuel management system that will turn off half of the pistons in its V-8 motor when it does not need the extra power. For those who really want the best fuel economy there is the Escalade Hybrid, but this will tack on another $10,000 to the price tag. Both models offer a very roomy seating arrangement for up to 8 passengers. There are many high tech options that can be added on to make this dream SUV even more to your liking.
The Range
Bodystyles: SUV, Truck
Engines: 6.2L V-8, 6.0L V-8 with two electric motors
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic,
Models: Base, Luxury, Premium, Platinum, ESV, EXT
What's New
Changes for 2011 are mostly minor, with some of the largest updates coming to the navigation and entertainment system, which now offers USB, Compact Flash and Auxiliary Input jacks. Two new paint colors are also offered, along with some minor updates to the OnStar hardware.
Exterior
The 2011 Cadillac Escalade remains visually unchanged from its 2007 redesign. Heavy use of chrome brightwork is attention grabbing and assures that the Escalade stands out in a crowd.
Interior
The Escalade carries a laundry list of standard luxury features including automatic climate control, navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth and heated leather seats. Options include an electronically variable suspension and rear-seat entertainment system.
Performance & Handling
Performance can be hard to come by in a vehicle weighing in the neighborhood of 6000 pounds, but the Cadillac Escalade's 403 horsepower V-8 handles the weight well with 417 pound-feet of torque on tap. So too does the Hybrid's 2 Mode system, which combines a 332-horsepower V-8 with two electric motors for 379 total horsepower. The Hybrid setup significantly improves the Escalade's city fuel economy. Optional all-wheel drive improves grip in inclement weather.
Safety
Driver and passenger front airbags are standard, along with side impact thorax bags front and rear for 2010. OnStar Automatic Crash Response is also standard, along with electronic safety devices including traction control and stability control.
EPA Fuel Economy
2WD: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway
AWD: 13 mpg city/20 mpg highway
Hybrid: 21 mpg city/22 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Status symbol
- Tons of space
- Hybrid model
- V-8 power
You Won't Like
- V-8 fuel economy
- Steep price
- Expensive Hybrid model
- Jumbo size
Sum Up
Still the ultimate status symbol
If You Like This Vehicle
- Lincoln Navigator
- Lexus LX
- Infiniti QX56
- Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
- Audi Q7