Cadillac Escalade: Luxury SUV Specs, Price & Features Explained
The Cadillac Escalade is America’s favorite luxury SUV. It has been on roads since 1999. People love this big vehicle for its style and comfort. Many celebrities and business owners drive it. The SUV shows success and good taste.
This guide will tell you everything about the Cadillac Escalade. You will learn about its size, power, and features. We will also show you why it beats other luxury SUVs.

Why People Choose Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade is not just a car. It makes a statement when you drive it. The design is bold and catches everyone’s eye. You can fit your whole family inside with room to spare.
Here are the main reasons people buy this SUV:

- The front grille is big and shiny. The lights stand up tall and look different from other cars.
- You get three rows of seats. Eight people can sit comfortably on long trips.
- The dashboard has a huge curved screen. It measures 38 inches across your view.
- Two engines are available. You can pick gas or diesel based on your needs.
- The car can drive itself on highways. This feature is called Super Cruise.
- The trunk holds 121 cubic feet when you fold the seats. That is bigger than most SUVs.
- Music sounds amazing through 36 speakers. The system comes from AKG audio company.
- You can choose different styles. Pick from luxury, sport, or platinum versions.
Size and Space Inside Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade is a big SUV. You need to know its size before buying. This helps you park it and fit it in your garage.
Outside Measurements
The regular model measures:
- Length is 211 inches from front to back.
- Width is 81 inches without mirrors.
- Height reaches 77.9 inches to the roof.
- The wheelbase spans 121 inches.
- It sits 7.9 inches off the ground.
- Weight ranges from 5,770 to 6,200 pounds.
The ESV model is longer:
- Total length stretches to 226.9 inches
- Wheelbase grows to 134.1 inches
- Width and height stay the same
- This version gives you more cargo room.
Inside Room for Passengers
Space matters when you have a family. The Cadillac Escalade gives everyone enough room.
Front seat space:
- Headroom is 42.4 inches for driver and passenger.
- Legroom reaches 44.5 inches so tall people fit.
- The seats move 16 different ways.
- Heat and cooling keep you comfortable.
Second row space:
- Headroom measures 39.9 inches.
- Legroom is 41.9 inches for relaxing.
- You can get captain’s chairs or a bench.
- The seats heat up in winter.
Third row space:
- Headroom is 38 inches which is good.
- Legroom reaches 34.9 inches for adults.
- Kids love sitting back here.
- The seats fold down with a button.
Cargo Area Size
The trunk space changes based on seats:
- Behind the third row: 25.5 cubic feet for groceries.
- Fold third row down: 72.9 cubic feet for furniture.
- Fold all seats flat: 121 cubic feet for moving day.
- The ESV model gives you even more space.
Engine Power and Performance
The Cadillac Escalade has two engine choices. Both are strong and reliable.
Gas V8 Engine Details
This is the standard engine most people choose:
- Size is 6.2 liters with eight cylinders.
- Makes 420 horsepower for quick speed.
- Produces 460 pound-feet of torque.
- Uses a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Runs on regular gas from any station.
- Gets 14 mpg in city driving.
- Gets 19 mpg on highways.
- Combined average is 16 mpg.
What the Escalade Can Do
Performance numbers matter for daily use:
- Tows up to 8,200 pounds with proper gear.
- Carries 1,290 pounds of cargo weight.
- Reaches 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds.
- Top speed hits 112 mph safely.
- You can choose rear-wheel drive.
- Four-wheel drive helps in snow and mud.
Technology Features Inside
The Cadillac Escalade uses new technology. These features make driving easier and more fun.

The Big Curved Screen
The dashboard has one massive screen:
- Measures 38 inches from left to right.
- Curves toward the driver naturally.
- Shows the speedometer and maps together.
- Works like a smartphone with touch.
- Connects to Google services built-in.
- Displays turn-by-turn directions clearly.
- Changes colors based on driving mode.
Navigation system helps you find places:
- Uses Google Maps with live traffic.
- Shows directions on the windshield glass.
- Projects arrows on the real road ahead.
- Updates routes when traffic gets bad.
- Finds charging stations and gas prices.
- Saves your favorite locations easily.
Phone Connection Options
Stay connected while you drive:
- Apple CarPlay works without wires.
- Android Auto also goes wireless.
- Bluetooth connects your phone automatically.
- Wi-Fi hotspot supports many devices.
- Uses fast 5G internet when available.
- USB-C ports charge devices quickly.
- Front console charges two phones wirelessly.
Sound System Quality
Music sounds better in this SUV:
- Standard system has 19 speakers.
- Upgraded AKG system includes 36 speakers.
- Sound comes through 28 separate channels.
- Bass is deep without distortion.
- Each seat gets clear audio.
- Active system cancels road noise.
- You can adjust settings for music type.
Safety Systems That Protect You
The Cadillac Escalade keeps you safe. Many features help prevent crashes.
Super Cruise Hands-Free Driving
This system is special and different:
- Works on over 400,000 miles of highways.
- You can take hands off the wheel safely.
- The car stays in the lane automatically.
- Changes lanes when you signal.
- A camera watches to make sure you pay attention.
- Works even when towing a trailer.
- Updates get better through Wi-Fi.
Other Safety Features
Many systems watch the road for you:
- Automatic braking stops for people crossing.
- Cruise control keeps safe distance from cars ahead.
- Warnings beep if you drift from your lane.
- Cameras watch your blind spots constantly.
- Shows all angles around the car when parking.
Comfort Features for Every Ride
Comfort matters on long drives. The Cadillac Escalade thinks of everything.
Seats and Materials
The seats are like living room furniture:
- Real leather covers all three rows.
- Front seats adjust 16 different ways.
- Massage function relaxes your back.
- Heat warms you up in winter.
- Ventilation cools you in summer.
- Second row can have captain’s chairs.
- Third row folds with button press.
- Wood trim comes in different styles.
Climate Control System
Temperature stays perfect for everyone:
- Three zones let people choose their setting.
- Some models have four zones total.
- Third row passengers control their own air.
- Heated seats work in all rows.
- Steering wheel heats up automatically.
- System remembers your preferences.
- Defrosts windows quickly in morning.
Easy Entry and Exit
Getting in and out is simple:
- Power steps drop down when doors open.
- Steps tuck away when you drive.
- Back door opens with foot motion.
- No need to put packages down.
How Escalade Beats Other Luxury SUVs
The Cadillac Escalade competes with expensive brands. Here is how it wins.
Compared to Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is a close rival:
Technology differences:
- Escalade screen is much bigger at 38 inches.
- Navigator uses separate smaller screens instead.
- Super Cruise is better than Lincoln’s system.
- AKG audio has more speakers than Revel.
- Escalade updates faster with new features.
Design differences:
- Escalade looks bolder and more modern.
- Navigator feels more traditional inside.
- Escalade lights are more recognizable.
Compared to BMW X7
The BMW X7 costs more money:
Space advantages:
- Escalade third row fits adults better.
- More total cargo room for luggage.
- Towing capacity beats BMW easily.
- Escalade feels bigger and more commanding.
- American size vs European compact thinking.
Value proposition:
- Escalade costs less to start.
- Standard features match BMW upgrades.
- Super Cruise matches BMW driver aids.
Compared to Mercedes-Benz GLS
Mercedes is known for luxury:
Practical benefits:
- Escalade tows 8,200 pounds easily.
- GLS can only pull 7,700 pounds.
- More interior space in Escalade.
Price and features:
- Escalade gives more for your money.
- Standard equipment list is longer.
- Screen technology is newer.
Different Versions You Can Buy
The Cadillac Escalade comes in four main styles. Each one offers different features.
Luxury Version
This is the starting model:
- Gets you 19-speaker audio system.
- Three zones of climate control.
- Leather seats with power adjustment.
- LED lights all around outside.
- 18-inch wheels with good tires.
- All safety features included.
- Touch screen with Google built-in.
Premium Luxury Version
This adds more comfort:
- Softer semi-aniline leather seats.
- 16-way power adjustment with massage.
- Lights up door sills when you enter.
- Bigger 20-inch wheels look better.
- Head-up display on windshield.
- Rear camera becomes your mirror.
- More chrome trim pieces outside.
Sport Version
This looks more aggressive:
- All trim pieces are black.
- Dark 22-inch wheels included.
- Suspension handles better in turns.
- Special sport steering wheel.
- Carbon fiber replaces wood trim.
- Unique badges outside.
- Brighter lights for night driving.
Sport Platinum Version
This is the top model:
- Everything from other versions included.
- 36-speaker AKG audio system.
- Night vision camera sees far ahead.
- Best Super Cruise with auto lane change.
- Rear seat screens for passengers.
- Executive second-row seats available.
- Special Platinum badges and trim.
Using Your Escalade Every Day
The Cadillac Escalade works for daily life. Here is what ownership is like.
City Driving Experience
Big SUVs can be tricky in town:
- Cameras help you see everything around.
- Parking sensors beep when close to objects.
- Power steps help in tight parking spots.
- Turning radius is better than expected.
- You sit high and see over traffic.
- Auto-dimming mirrors help at night.
Highway Travel Comfort
Long trips feel easy:
- Super Cruise lets you relax on interstates.
- Seats stay comfortable for hours.
- Quiet cabin blocks wind noise.
- Smooth ride soaks up bumps.
- Plenty of outlets for devices.
- Everyone can watch their own screen.
Family Friendly Features
Kids and parents both benefit:
- Car seat anchors in rows two and three.
- Leather wipes clean from spills.
- Many cup holders throughout cabin.
- Storage bins hide toys and snacks.
- Entertainment keeps kids quiet.
- Easy to get kids in and out.
Taking Care of Your Escalade
Maintenance keeps your SUV running great. The schedule is straightforward.
Regular Service Needs
Follow these intervals:
- Change oil every 7,500 miles driven.
- Rotate tires at same time as oil.
- Big service at 45,000 miles.
- Another major service at 90,000 miles.
- Check brakes when rotating tires.
- Replace air filters as needed.
Warranty Protection
Cadillac covers your vehicle well:
- Basic warranty lasts 4 years or 50,000 miles.
- Powertrain covered for 6 years or 70,000 miles.
- Roadside help included with warranty.
- Free maintenance for first year.
- Loaner car during warranty repairs.
Common Questions About Escalade
People ask these questions often:
How much does it cost?
- Luxury starts around $93,295
- Premium Luxury costs about $102,495.
- Sport version is around $103,095.
- Sport Platinum tops $122,095.
- ESV models cost $3,000 more.
Is it reliable?
- Cadillac has improved quality.
- V8 engine is proven reliable.
- Diesel is new but tested well.
- Electronics can have issues.
- Warranty covers most problems.
- Maintenance is important.
Does it fit in a garage?
- Standard garage doors work fine.
- Height is 77.9 inches total.
- Most garages are 80 inches tall.
- Length needs 20 feet of space.
- Check your specific measurements.
Can you take it off-road?
- Four-wheel drive helps in dirt.
- Ground clearance is 7.9 inches.
- Not built for serious trails.
- Fine for beach and snow.
- Better on pavement than rocks.
Final Thoughts
The Cadillac Escalade leads the luxury SUV market for good reasons. It combines American style with modern technology. The size gives you space that families need. Power comes from proven engines that last. Features make every drive comfortable and safe.
This SUV stands out from competitors through its bold design and huge screen. Super Cruise technology makes highway driving relaxing. The interior uses real materials that feel expensive. You can customize it to match your style perfectly. Strong resale values protect your investment over time.
Whether you need to move people or cargo, the Escalade handles it all with style.
