A pop culture icon in its own time, the Cadillac Escalade offers unmatched gravitas and presence—if that's your thing.The Cadillac Escalade is the big hoss of GM's luxury lineup. It's more than just the high-falutin' version of the Suburbans, Tahoes, and Yukons that almost rival it for luxury fittings; it's probably the most recognizable Cadillac on the road today, thanks as much to its beveled edges to its imposing stance. Available in base, Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Platinum configurations, the Escalade goes from well to lavishly-equipped with the tick of a few option boxes.
Pros Imposing style Impressive technology suite Strong V-8 engine Voluminous cargo area
Cons Still a luxurious Suburban, albeit a much fancier one than before Awfully expensive, even against its rivals Is it simply too brash?
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade is unique among luxury SUVs for its large size, powerful engine and bold styling, but it comes up a bit short in terms of refinement and convenience. For 2017, the Cadillac Escalade has made minor changes to the content of its trim levels and also renamed them. New features include a teen-driver monitoring system, a rear passenger reminder (so you don't leave your kids in a hot car), an automated system for parking, and an innovative rearview mirror that incorporates a camera view.
Pros More than enough power from the standard 6.2-liter V8 engine Luxurious cabin remains pleasantly quiet in nearly any circumstance Optional second-row bench increases seating capacity to eight Impressive towing abilities that most competitors can't match.
Cons Truck-based chassis translates into a less refined ride quality High cargo floor makes loading more difficult Third-row seats are uncomfortable even for children The infotainment system can sometimes be frustrating.
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade ranks 4 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. In the realm of large luxury SUVs, the 2017 Cadillac Escalade is one of the biggest you can buy, with a robust V8 engine and an upscale, plush cabin. However, refinement you’ll find in the interior doesn't carry over into ride quality.
Pros Elegant, well-built cabin Muscular V8 engine Extended-wheelbase ESV expands third-row and cargo space
Cons Infotainment system can be slow and confusing Cramped third-row seat in standard configuration Ride and handling are less refined than rivals Limited cargo space behind third row in standard configuration
The 2019 Cadillac XTS delivers on Cadillac's traditional strengths with a smooth ride, quiet cabin, a big back seat and classy styling. It's a smart pick if you want a luxury sedan without the sporty pretenses of Cadillac's sportier sedans, such as a stiffer ride.
Pros Spacious interior has high-quality materials throughout Offers plenty of standard features Optional turbo V6 engine provides strong power Seats are eminently comfortable
Cons Driver aids remain exclusive to upper trims Touch-sensitive controls can be a hassle while on the move Trunk opening is surprisingly narrow for a car of this size Standard V6 struggles to get this big car moving
The 2019 Cadillac XTS feels purpose-built as an executive chauffeur’s chariot but provides a comfortable and pleasant ride from any seat.
Pros Plenty of space, front and rear Strong performance, especially in V-Sport trims Solid, comfortable ride Refined, high-end materials throughout, even in base models
Cons Most safety features and driver aids are optional Options and trim upgrades drive the price up—fast Capacitive buttons sometimes confusing to use
