2021 Cadillac Escalade Overview
When Cadillac first introduced the Escalade in 1999, it was little more than a rebadged GMC Yukon Denali. The original Escalade was available in one trim (base) with one drivetrain (four-wheel drive), loaded with numerous options available to the Yukon as standard. Pricing started at a substantial $46,255. Built as a response to Lincoln’s Navigator (launched in 1998) and the Mercedes ML-class, the first-generation Escalade was fast-tracked from design to production in less than a year.
Thankfully, much has changed in the two decades since Escalade burst onto the scene. Now entering its fifth generation for the 2021 model year, the Escalade is more stylish, luxurious, and technologically advanced than ever before. The 2021 Escalade still shares its chassis, drivetrain, and cab structure with its Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon relatives, and is assembled alongside them at GM’s plant in Arlington, Texas.
New Chassis and Performance Features
Similar to the Tahoe and Yukon, the 2021 Escalade is equipped with a new independent rear suspension. Standard features include Magnetic Ride Control dampers, and Escalade will also be available with GM’s new four-corner air suspension. An electronic limited slip differential is optional, and four-wheel drive is available across the lineup. Consequently, combining all of these features should produce an incredibly agile vehicle, despite its size.
Power and Fuel Efficiency
Powering the 2021 Cadillac Escalade are two engine options: the stalwart 6.2L gasoline V-8 and GM’s new 3.0L Duramax I-6 diesel. The 6.2L V-8 features the company’s new Dynamic Fuel Management system, which was first introduced on the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado pickup, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine, the first new oil-burner for Cadillac in almost 40 years, generates 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. However, the real story here is fuel economy. Based on our experience with this engine in other models, we’d expect EPA fuel economy numbers in the mid to high 20s for Escalade.
Innovative Interior and Technology
Design and technology are what set the Escalade apart from its Chevrolet and GMC relatives. The new interior is primarily influenced by Cadillac’s Escala concept vehicle, featuring a massive curved OLED display. A remarkable 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system, powered by three amplifiers to deliver 28 channels of audio, provides a studio-like experience. Moreover, rear-seat passengers can enjoy entertaining options with a pair of optional 12.6-inch screens.
Enhanced Super Cruise and Navigation
The 2021 Escalade boasts Cadillac’s enhanced Super Cruise feature, which enables automated lane change ability thanks to a comprehensive data suite comprising LiDAR, GPS, radar, cameras, and an advanced driver attention system. This technology gives the Escalade the capacity for hands-free driving on over 200,000 miles of compatible highways. Furthermore, augmented reality navigation offers live street views with directional overlays to assist the driver.
Exterior Design and Capability
From the outside, designers focused on ensuring that the Escalade remained immediately recognizable. While everything has been updated, all design elements maintain a classic Escalade style. A Sport trim has been added to the lineup for the first time, joining Luxury, Premium, and Platinum trims.
The 2021 Escalade will still be able to tow your toys, aided by an optional Trailering Integration Package, which provides up to nine different camera views, an integrated trailer brake controller, and GM’s effective trailering app. Additionally, this package includes extended side blind zone alert features.
Conclusion
Cadillac’s Escalade has always walked a fine line between a high-end luxury SUV and a more conventional SUV. At its core, it is more than just a Tahoe with cosmetic enhancements. Now, the Escalade showcases a unique identity characterized by an elegant interior, fitting exterior, and innovative technology. This model appears to be setting a new standard in its class, offering compelling reasons to consider an Escalade over a GMC Yukon Denali. Full judgment awaits the final specifications and real-world driving experiences, but it seems that Cadillac is well-positioned to compete effectively in the luxury SUV market.
