Cadillac Escalade

Beginnings

In 1999, the Escalade was born. It debuted as a full-size SUV that had classy looks and stylish interior. The Cadillac Escalade was the first Cadillac built on a truck chassis. It was a luxury SUV with natural wood and leather interior trim and had a 5.7L V8 with 255 horsepower. It had towing capability of 6,500 pounds, offered four-wheel drive, and had plenty of cargo space with seats that could fit up to five passengers. Movie stars, musicians, and critics alike lauded the Escalade.

A New and Improved Escalade

The first generation lasted three years, and in 2002 improvements were made. A 5.3L V8 was offered as the new base, but it had an improved 285 horsepower. A newly available 6.0L V8 engine with 345 horsepower was optional.  It offered a refined grille, restructured headlights, and a chiseled look. These looks would be refined and flattened out to give the Escalade a smooth and thick appearance for 2007. The side steps were removed and more metal was added to the exterior, giving the SUV a luxurious feel. Passenger size increased to eight, and a 6.2L Vortec V8 with 403 horsepower became the standard engine.  Four-speed automatic transmission was upgraded to six speeds, and in 2009 a hybrid model was offered.

The latest generation has been restyled from the mechanics to the aesthetics. A massive grille has been installed on the front accompanied with polished "jewel" LED head and taillights that pierce down the side. The side step has been reinstalled to access the interior hand-crafted leather trim and sleek wood panels laced throughout the inside. The front and second row feature heated seats with an all new "cooled" design. Some new features also include new navigation technology, a Bose stereo system, new start-up animation, and interior motion sensors for security. It also comes with an improved and standard 6.2L 420 horsepower V8 engine and an all-new suspension for better driving and handling. With upgrades like these, the Escalade continues to excel as an upscale top-notch SUV that can attract older and younger customers alike.