The Ultimate Vehicle Of American Pride
The Escalade has a history of sixteen years and four generations. For some, this big and bold vehicle is the ultimate expression of American luxury in excess. Sitting on the top of GM’s rich SUV hierarchy (even in the short-wheelbase version as we tested) , it is big, bold, powerful and very luxurious. with overly large 22-inch rims and the Dark Granite Metallic exterior, it is also a reflection of masculine taste. It is polarizing in every aspect. You may fall in love with it or hate it.
A choreography of edges and swords of all sizes. The Cadillac design language is the the hard work of over a decade.
Engine
Honestly, I do not have a driving history with the previous generations of Escalade. However, this vehicle offers a refined driving experience that goes far beyond a truck. With the immense power and torque of the 6.2 liter V8 machine under the hood, you are provoked to give gas and reach the acceleration of a sports car. The musical sound of the engine broadcasted from under the hood and exhaust is simply addicting. you may easily forget the environmental crimes you commit as you approach 20 liter mark.
The 6.2 liter, V8 engine offers 420 horsepower. Cylinder deactivation does not provide palpable benefits for a vehicle of this size, yet still a bold statement for environment
Inside The Cabin
The interior features are simply impressive from the perfectly designed heads-up display to the 12-inch fully reconfigurable digital gauge cluster. Except the CUE system that still awaits a major overhaul. Dual DVD screens that are on the back of the front seat headrests. Bose sound system is impressive and a feature that this ultra-luxury SUV deserves. Adjustable foot pedals complement the luxury inside.
12″ colour reconfigurable instrument cluster is a common feature in all Cadillacs
I assume that Cadillac is waiting for the next-generation to replace the infamous CUV system.
But the high-seating position is so majestic that you sometimes feel you command the vehicle from the second floor.
However, once these shining features become the norm and you are used to this unusual vehicle, the shortcomings become more noticeable. For a vehicle of this size, even the second row seats do not provide enough legroom and the third row seats are nearly for kids. And this despite the limited luggage space. Well, maybe I am ex-aggregating. A longer wheelbase version is available to eliminate all these “perceived” shortcomings.
The third row offers limited legroom and not much to the benefit of the luggage compartment.
Conclusion
In the last ten years or so, General Motors has been working hard to fully utilize the great heritage of the Cadillac brand and firmly establish it in the luxury segment. And the second part of a great journey has begun under the leadership of Johan de Nysschen, the new Cadillac boss. The Escalade is and will be a big part of this exciting journey.
The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant in Toronto with its Art-Deco style was a fitting background for the bold and edgy Escalade
The Specifications
Type of vehicle: Full-size SUV
Engine: 6.2 liter DI, V8-cylinder DOHC, with cylinder de-activation
Transmission: 8-speed, automatic
Price (base/as tested): $101,720 / $105,690
Destination charge: CAD 1,950
Natural Resources Canada fuel economy (L/100 km): 16 city; 11.2 highway;13.9 combined
Optional features
(22″-9 spoke ultra-bright silver-metallic aluminium whhels with chrome inserts, Nappa-leather, dual DVD screens, 18-way power front seats with massage function for the driver seat, front-console compartment cooler, microfibre- dueded headliner, adaptive cruise control, drivier awareness package, power sliding power sunroof, power retractable assist steps)
Total Price as Tested: $105,690
Article: Varol McKars
Pictures: Varol McKars, Burak McKars
Test vehicle was provided by Ford Canada (via BHG Media Fleet)
For the most up-to-date and more detailed information, visit:
www.cadillaccanada.ca
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