Cadillac’s Escalade continues its behemoth presence with the fifth generation full-size SUV that is promised to deliver luxury and styling well above previous offerings. Speaking of luxury and styling, many of the 2021 Escalade’s striking design cues were borrowed from the highly anticipated Escala concept back in 2016.
Despite the EV revolution lurking around the corner, the Escalade isn’t complete without a big engine. Two variants are offered: a thirsty 6.2 liter V-8, or a newly introduced diesel-turbocharged inline-6. Call it a classic or whatever it may be, but the all-new innovative curved OLED display, all-digital cluster and electronic shift knob brings the 2021 Escalade to a new tech-inspired and modernistic era.
The bottom-up redesigned interior and exterior are easily the first thing to be noticed, but the 2021 Cadillac Escalade’s also got a few powertrain features newly introduced for 2021. A new independent rear suspension offers a smoother and more responsive ride, and the optional turbo-charged diesel engine makes for a more economical choice for better fuel economy without sacrificing power.
To get the best out of the 2021 Escalade, we’d recommend getting the Premium Luxury Platinum trim that gets you a 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massaging feature, soft-close doors, semi-aniline leather and a powerful 36-speaker AKG audio surround system. Priced at a whopping $118,398 Canadian, that doesn’t come cheap. Lower trims (Sport, Premium Luxury, or Luxury) will still get self-parking, a heads-up display and adaptive cruise control as standard features.
The Escalade’s interior is stacked with ultra-premium materials that has been meticulously crafted to a level that puts its luxury German rivals to shame. But what really caught us by surprise is the all-digital instrument cluster and a unique curved infotainment system that is really putting the Escalade in the spotlight this year. Other mechanical design cues employed along the instrument create a sophisticated depth of visual appeal that adds to a truly unique and luxury experience.
Rear passengers will also enjoy two 12.6” displays with streaming capability and the audiophile-grade 36-speker AKG audio system is the last, but not, least of the quality spectacles worth mentioning.
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade’s 6.2-liter V-8 engine, produces a monstrous 420 horsepower and 460 lb.ft of torque, with the ability to de-active half of its cylinders while cruising to improve fuel economy. Also available is a turbocharged inline six 3.0 liter engine that makes 277 horsepower and 460 lbs.ft of torque. Both engines will come with a 10-speed automatic with the ability to configure the Escalade in either rear or all-wheel drive.
Without a doubt, the V-8 engine’s shear power will forever be the Escalade’s classic ride experience, but the turbocharged diesel engine certainly should not be neglected with its high torque output matching that of the V-8.
We’re pleased to say that the all-new Cadillac Escalade’s trademark experience hasn’t vanished at all – we’re mostly referring to its big, mean and dominating presence. There is no denial of its shear size and weight, but despite the fact, the Cadillac Escalade remains exceptionally composed and the V-8 engine readily responsive at all times.
The level of luxury that comes along with the 2021 Escalade delivers quite the experience and the price-tag is a reflection of that, coming in at $118, 398 for the Premium Luxury Platinum trim. Lower Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport trim can be had for $87,698, $94,958, and $108,998 respectively when configured with All-Wheel-Drive.
