The Cadillac Escalade, a full-size luxury SUV manufactured by General Motors, stands as Cadillac’s primary entry into the SUV market[3]. The Escalade was introduced in 1999 in response to the growing popularity of luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Range Rover, and Lexus LX[3]. The name “Escalade” is derived from a siege warfare tactic involving scaling defensive walls using ladders or siege towers[3]. More broadly, it comes from the French verb “escalader,” meaning “to climb or scale”[3].
Cadillac Escalade: Launch Details
The Cadillac Escalade project was fast-tracked into production, taking only ten months from approval to launch[3]. This rapid development underscores the urgency with which Cadillac sought to compete in the burgeoning luxury SUV segment. The Escalade is assembled in Arlington, Texas, and is available in North America and select international markets, including Europe and Asia, where Cadillac has established sales channels[3]. The Escalade ESV (Escalade Stretch Vehicle) is available in North America, Russia, and the Middle East and can be ordered in some international markets[3].
Cadillac Escalade: Specifications and Design
The Cadillac Escalade has undergone five generations, with the most recent unveiled in 2021[3]. The fifth-generation Escalade has been praised for its advanced technology and self-driving capabilities[3]. However, its size, standing at nearly two meters tall, has been criticized for being excessive and potentially hazardous to pedestrians[3].
In 2022, Cadillac introduced the Escalade-V, a performance-oriented version of the SUV[3]. This model is the largest performance SUV in the American market, featuring a 6.2-liter V8 supercharged engine[3]. With 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque, the Escalade-V can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds[3]. It has a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time all-wheel-drive system that can adjust torque distribution between the front and rear axles[3]. The suggested starting price for the Escalade-V is $149,990[3]. A longer wheelbase model, the Escalade-V ESV, is also available[3].
A facelift model was released on July 17, 2024, for the 2025 model year[3]. This update includes a new front fascia with vertical headlights inspired by the Escalade IQ, an illuminated crest logo on the grille, and a new illuminated grille surround[3]. The rear fascia features new taillights and a new bumper, along with new exterior colors and alloy wheel designs[3]. For the first time, 24-inch alloy wheels are available on the Escalade[3]. The interior has been redesigned to incorporate elements from the Escalade IQ, such as a curved 55-inch display that integrates the driver and passenger displays, a new secondary lower screen for controlling vehicle settings, a new steering wheel, and a column-mounted shifter for the automatic transmission[3]. Additionally, the facelift includes a new Executive Second Row package with a center console, two 12.6-inch touchscreen displays, electrically operated side doors, and new interior color themes[3]. The diesel engine option has been discontinued for the facelift model[3].
Cadillac Escalade: Safety Features
While specific details on the Escalade’s safety features were not found in the provided documents, modern vehicles like the Escalade typically come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. These may include features such as:
* **Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)**: Forward collision alert, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
* **Airbag Systems**: Front, side, and curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
* **Stability Control**: Electronic stability control and traction control systems to help maintain control in adverse driving conditions.
* **High-Strength Steel Construction**: Use of high-strength steel in the vehicle’s frame and body to enhance crash protection.
Cadillac Escalade: Engine and Performance
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade offers several engine options to cater to different performance and efficiency preferences[1]. These include:
Standard 6.2L V8 Engine**: This engine delivers 420 horsepower for a smooth and commanding driving experience[1].
Available Duramax 3.0L Turbo Diesel Engine**: This 6-cylinder engine provides 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, offering enhanced efficiency[1].
6.2L Supercharged V8 Engine**: Exclusive to the V-Series, this hand-built engine offers mega-output performance[1].
The Escalade also features advanced performance technologies, such as:
Air Ride Adaptive Suspension**: This available system uses electronically controlled air springs to enhance ride smoothness and isolation[1]. Drivers can further optimize their experience with selectable drive modes[1].
Magnetic Ride Control**: This system reads the road 1,000 times per second, adjusting the suspension to provide a responsive and smooth ride[1].
Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD)**: Developed with Cadillac V-Series experience, the eLSD intelligently reacts to road conditions to maximize traction during rain, snow, or cornering[1].
Cadillac Escalade: Technology and Features
The Cadillac Escalade is equipped with numerous technology and convenience features[7][5]:
Curved OLED Display: A 38-inch curved OLED display offers twice the pixel density of a 4K television, providing bold imagery, perfect blacks, and a vast color range[5].
Augmented Reality-Enabled Navigation**: This feature projects a live street view onto the cluster display with directional overlays, providing a clear and intuitive navigation experience[5].
Available Super Cruise Driver Assistance Technology**: This hands-free driving technology is available on more than 400,000 miles of compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada[5].
AKG Studio Reference Sound System**: This available 36-speaker system delivers a professional studio listening experience in the vehicle[5].
Connectivity**: The Escalade offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring seamless smartphone integration[5].
* **Comfort and Convenience**: Features include heated and ventilated front seats, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the overall driving experience[1][5].
* **High-Quality Interior**: Leather-covered dash and door panels, aluminum speaker grilles, and adjustable interior ambient lighting create an upscale environment[7].
Maserati Quattroporte: A Legacy of Luxury and Performance
Cadillac Escalade: Efficiency and Practicality
The Escalade ESV provides more legroom for third-row passengers and additional cargo space[7].
Cadillac Escalade: Price and Availability
For the 2025 model year, the Cadillac Escalade is expected to go on sale in late 2024, with a starting price of $130,000[3]. The Escalade and Escalade ESV are available in North America and select international markets through official Cadillac sales channels[3]. Right-hand-drive versions are available through third-party conversion specialists in certain markets[3].
Cadillac Escalade: Mileage
Specific mileage figures were not available in the provided search results.
Cadillac Escalade: Heritage and Evolution
The Cadillac Escalade represents a significant milestone in Cadillac’s history, marking the brand’s first major foray into the luxury SUV market[3]. Over its five generations, the Escalade has evolved from a rebadged GMC Yukon to a unique and technologically advanced flagship vehicle[3]. The introduction of the Escalade-V further demonstrates Cadillac’s commitment to performance and innovation[3]. The Escalade has garnered recognition from various third parties for its design, quality, reliability, and safety[4].