Cadillac Escalade

Overview: Is the Cadillac Escalade a Good SUV?

The Escalade helped set the bar for luxury SUVs after its 1999 launch, pairing a truckish body-on-frame build with upscale Cadillac ambitions. Athletic V8 power, posh cabins, and iconic styling make full-size Escalade SUVs fixtures amongst Hollywood elites, luxury livery services, and suburban families. Seating for seven or eight enables upscale transport one day and kid hauling the next. Updated periodically through its five generations, the latest Cadillac Escalade brings a high-tech dash and 682 horsepower Blackwing V8 for discriminating SUV shoppers. With abundant torque and exceptional curb appeal, used Escalades tempt buyers to want Cadillac's presence on a Chevrolet budget.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Cadillac Escalade cars for sale.

Find a used Cadillac Escalade near me.

Related: Cadillac vs. Mercedes: A Complete Brand Comparison

Key Features

The Cadillac Escalade offers:

• Full-size luxury SUV body style (the Escalade ESV is the extended-length edition, the Escalade EXT was a short-lived pickup version)
• V8 power (hybrid and six-cylinder Diesel options vary by year)
• Automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

Trims

Newer Cadillac Escalade trims include Sport, Luxury, Premium, and Platinum. In 2023, the automaker launched the Cadillac Escalade V performance SUV.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Available recent upgrades like massaging front seats, AKG Studio Reference audio system, Super Cruise hands-free driving, and curved OLED displays maintain first-class accommodations expected from a premier GM luxury SUV. At the same time, the refined Escalade interior provides effective isolation from noise and harshness. Cargo space is generous, especially in stretched ESV form.

How It Drives

While no sports car, the Cadillac Escalade can move when equipped with a V8 engine under the hood. This SUV is large and in charge. Meanwhile, available adaptive suspension helps this jumbo vehicle glide over potholes and speed bumps. Nonetheless, the Escalade provides a remarkably agile driving experience courtesy of Cadillac engineering.

Safety

While individual safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can vary slightly year-to-year, the Escalade has a family-friendly four-star (out of five) ranking.

Reviews

Cadillac Escalade reviews via Kelley Blue Book are inconsistent. Older editions (from the first through third generations) are favorably rated, with an average owner score of 4.5 (out of 5.0). Consumers praised the style and comfort of these SUVs. Ratings tanked to 3.7 for the fourth-generation Escalade, with reliability, value, and quality especially troubling. The fifth generation bounced back with a 4.0 ranking.

Learn More: How Long Do Cadillac Escalades Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan and Here Are The Cadillac Escalade Years To Avoid

FAQs

How much does an Escalade car cost?

The 2024 Cadillac Escalade starts at nearly $82,000 in base Luxury trim. It rises to over $150,000 for the Cadillac Escalade V. Used Cadillac Escalade prices are greatly affected by age, mileage, condition, and equipment. A review of CoPilot’s nationwide listings shows a price range of $5,000 to over $100,000 for second-hand versions.

Is the Cadillac Escalade a luxury car?

Most certainly. As Cadillac’s flagship conventional SUV, the Escalade delivers equal doses of luxury, performance, and prestige. Its appointments and features aim directly at high-end rivals like the Lincoln Navigator, with the GMC Yukon Denali knocking on the Escalade’s door.

Why is the Escalade so popular?

The Escalade wins over owners with its head-turning style, cushy cabin, strong V8 performance, and Cadillac cachet. Generous passenger and cargo space also contribute to its enduring appeal.

Find a used Cadillac Escalade for sale.