Cadillac's Escalade is a full-size premium-level SUV that battles Lincoln's Navigator for domestic dominance in the luxury SUV market. The Escalade was completely redesigned for 2007, and little has changed in this behemoth of decadence for 2008.
Cadillac design language speaks boldly
The Escalade represents what can be achieved in creating a large bulky vehicle that projects strength, class and sophistication. From its imposing grille to its mock fender ports, the big rig's clean overall appearance is eye-catching and all Cadillac- so to speak. It's unlikely to ever be mistaken for one of the many luxury imports.
With its divine seating and rich wood trim, the interior is also all Cadillac. GM interiors have advanced remarkably over the last decade and there is no better example of this than the Escalade. The materials in use are top-notch while the cabin's assembly quality is flawless. This is a wonderful environment from which to administer Cadillac's all-wheel-drive (AWD) flagship.
Power to match the strength of its styling
As with last year, a 6.2-litre OHV Vortec V8 featuring Variable Valve Timing (VVT) delivers massive punch to all four corners. The American hardware produces a whopping 403 horsepower @ 5,700 rpm and 417 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,300 rpm. Premium gas is recommended but not essential.
Big muscle generally means big fuel bills, and with a fuel economy rating of 17.7 and 10.8 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively, the Escalade is no exception to the rule. The presence of a technologically advanced six-speed automatic transmission contributes to the vehicle's impressive showing in the passing lane and may actually aid fuel economy, dreadful as it is.
Despite the Escalade's enormous curb-weight of 2,750-kg (5,665-lbs), it feels lithe on its rubber thanks to the engine's massive output. Not only does this immense harnessing of horsepower move the Escalade with startling authority, it produces a heavily muted exhaust note that is like gold lovers of V8 muscle.
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| The Escalade was completely redesigned for 2007, and little has changed in this behemoth of decadence for 2008. |
Cadillac design language speaks boldly
The Escalade represents what can be achieved in creating a large bulky vehicle that projects strength, class and sophistication. From its imposing grille to its mock fender ports, the big rig's clean overall appearance is eye-catching and all Cadillac- so to speak. It's unlikely to ever be mistaken for one of the many luxury imports.
With its divine seating and rich wood trim, the interior is also all Cadillac. GM interiors have advanced remarkably over the last decade and there is no better example of this than the Escalade. The materials in use are top-notch while the cabin's assembly quality is flawless. This is a wonderful environment from which to administer Cadillac's all-wheel-drive (AWD) flagship.
Power to match the strength of its styling
As with last year, a 6.2-litre OHV Vortec V8 featuring Variable Valve Timing (VVT) delivers massive punch to all four corners. The American hardware produces a whopping 403 horsepower @ 5,700 rpm and 417 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,300 rpm. Premium gas is recommended but not essential.
Big muscle generally means big fuel bills, and with a fuel economy rating of 17.7 and 10.8 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively, the Escalade is no exception to the rule. The presence of a technologically advanced six-speed automatic transmission contributes to the vehicle's impressive showing in the passing lane and may actually aid fuel economy, dreadful as it is.
Despite the Escalade's enormous curb-weight of 2,750-kg (5,665-lbs), it feels lithe on its rubber thanks to the engine's massive output. Not only does this immense harnessing of horsepower move the Escalade with startling authority, it produces a heavily muted exhaust note that is like gold lovers of V8 muscle.
 |
| The materials in use are top-notch while the cabin's assembly quality is flawless. |