Pro: Well-built and spacious cabin Comfortable seats in the front and second rows Strong acceleration, especially in the XC90 T8 Cons: Third-row seats are only good for small adults or kids One USB port in a luxury family crossover is unacceptable
Pros Sharp new look and style; spacious second- and third-row seating; many standard safety technology features; confident handling; available hybrid model.
Cons Overly busy and firm ride quality; base engine comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some touchscreen controls are hard to use.
Endnote: The XC90's suspension tuning is another mixed bag. On smooth pavement, the XC90 feels calm and controlled on its available air suspension. But over ruts, bumps and broken pavement, the vehicle delivers too many impacts and jitters to the occupants for a luxury SUV. We've only driven the XC90 with the big 21-inch wheels, but based on that experience, we recommend going with smaller wheels if possible to help smooth out the ride. Around turns, there's better news, as the XC90 inspires confidence with its planted character, feeling smaller and lighter than it really is.
The 2016 XC90 is raising the design bar in the premium three-row large crossover segment. And with a long roster of standard equipment that includes leather seating, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a smartphone-like infotainment system and state-of-the-art safety gear, the XC90 provides an intriguing alternative to the German-branded competition.
For 2017, Cadillac has given the Escalade ESV a new optional, camera-based rearview mirror and an automatic parking assist system that can partially steer you into perpendicular and parallel parking spots. Mechanically, the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV carries over unchanged.
Pros Strong V8 engine is never at a loss for power Capable of towing up to 8,100 pounds Cabin remains quiet regardless of road conditions Seating for up to eight passengers
Cons Less refined ride quality than some other luxury SUVs Sheer size requires careful maneuvering in tight quarters High cargo floor makes loading baggage difficult Infotainment interface isn't always intuitive
The Cadillac Escalade ESV is a longer version of the Escalade. The ESV is a large, luxurious SUV that delivers performance and style. Classy and powerful, it looks great for a night on the town or can haul everything needed for a weekend getaway.The ESV features a long wheelbase and an increase in total length, greatly enhancing third-row seat legroom and rear cargo space. Available as a 4x2 or 4x4, all Escalade models are powered by a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8 with direct injection, Active Fuel Management and E85 compatibility, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes Magnetic Ride Control, electric power steering, front active aero shutters, power liftgate, LED headlamps, stability control, remote start, HD radio, CUE information and media control system with embedded navigation, passive entry with passive start, a rear-view camera and seven airbags including an inboard driver seat-mounted center airbag.For 2017, the ESV carries over with minimal changes.
The Cadillac Escalade represents the height of safety, luxury, and technology among American SUVs. Although it has sometimes been cast as a study in excess, its fourth generation has grown far more refined, both in content and design. But for the times when you simply to need more of everything, the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV succeeds. Based on the standard Escalade, the ESV has a 14-inch longer wheelbase and 20 more inches of overall length. This extension maximizes the usefulness of the third row and rear cargo space. Cadillac claims the ESV provides more than two-and-a-half-times the cargo space of the conventional Escalade.
