LUXURY AND PREMIUM
Tellingly, no one even mentioned the off-road capabilities of the new Eskelade. Never. Neither the organizers of the event from Cadillac, nor, what is most striking, the journalists.
Frankly speaking, I can’t even imagine that this monster with a curb weight of 2.5 tons can go anywhere further than the compacted dirt road of a Texas ranch. Yes, it is still framed. Yes, it still has a dependent rear suspension, and the torque of the “eight” is such that I’m still surprised how it doesn’t break off the mounts when you sharply press the gas. But to wallow in the mud is this miracle sparkling with LED headlights... Eskelade owners have enough problems even without off-road extreme sports. They would survive in the urban jungle. Therefore, Mexican journalists at a press conference terrorized GM representatives with questions about new anti-theft and anti-vandal systems. In response, the Yankees, not without pleasure, talked about a laminated-reinforced windshield and a basic anti-theft system that could sense that someone was about to steal expensive 22-inch wheels from the car.
Imposing guys from the Middle East lazily studied the list of equipment and asked clarifying questions about additional equipment. It is arranged in two groups - with the pretentious names “Luxury” and “Premium Collection”. Additionally, you can only order a three-seater sofa in the second row instead of separate seats, Blu-ray monitors for passengers, servo-propelled footrests... and all-wheel drive. After all, according to a long-standing American tradition, almost any all-terrain vehicle is offered there with only one drive axle in the initial version (Cadillac in this case, of course, is rear-wheel drive). Many buyers don't need more.
New in 2021
This year, the Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a new ten-speed automatic transmission, which had a positive effect on savings. The top Platinum model gets Maple Sugar interior trim with Jet Black accents.
How we tested the 2018 Cadillac Escalade
Driving impressions
The SUV looks massive and even menacing. But the people behind the wheel get an extremely compliant vehicle. It's comfortable, easy to drive, holds well on the road and is powerful. Of course, the larger size makes parking a bit of a hassle, but on the road the Escalade handles like a sophisticated sedan. The 6.2-liter V8 engine is moderately brutal. The driver will not feel any lack of power at all. Things get even better with the new 10-speed automatic transmission. Magnetic Ride Control works wonders, allowing the massive Escalade to soak up road imperfections and corner sharply. Power steering surprises with its proportional response. By adding an all-wheel drive system, we get an almost all-terrain vehicle.
