2006 Cadillac Escalade Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Cadillac's truck-based SUVs are unchanged for 2006, and are due to be replaced during the model year by redesigned 2007 versions. Escalade is a luxury spinoff of the large Chevrolet/GMC SUVs. It comes in three versions. The base Escalade and longer Escalade ESV are SUV wagons with three rows of seats. They have 7-passenger capacity with 2nd-row buckets, eight with an optional 2nd-row bench. Escalade EXT is a 4-dr crew-cab pickup truck. Like the similar Chevrolet Avalanche, it has a "midgate" wall between the cab and cargo bed; removing its rear window allows dropping the midgate to extend the bed from 5.3 ft to 8.1. EXT seats five, but just two with the midgate folded. All Escalades offer all-wheel drive and a 6.0-liter V8. The base wagon also comes as a 2WD model. AWD Escalades lack low-range gearing. All models have automatic transmission, front side airbags, ABS, antiskid/traction control, tire-pressure monitor, and Cadillac's automatic-adjusting Road Sensing Suspension. Also standard: trailering package, power-adjustable gas and brake pedals, rear obstacle detection, and OnStar assistance. The ESV Platinum Edition includes navigation system, rear DVD entertainment, specific appearance touches, and 20-inch chrome alloy wheels in place of Escalade's standard 17-inch alloys.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Based on mainstream Large SUVs, Premium Large SUVs are really super-sized luxury liners. All are powerful, pricey, and extremely thirsty at the pump.

Our Best Buys is Toyota Land Cruiser. Our Recommended pick is Cadillac Escalade.

News

The just-redesigned Escalades will not be offered in high-performance V-Series versions, as some expected. Cadillac says they just aren't needed. Otherwise, this SUV trio isn't in for much change through decade's end.

2006 Cadillac Escalade Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Steering feel

Quietness	Fuel economy

Passenger and cargo room	Entry/exit

Trailer-towing capability

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.1

Ample, despite occasional transmission delays in full-throttle downshifts. Test drives support Cadillac's claims of around 8.5 sec 0-60 mph. Towing capacities are 7400 lb for 2WD Escalades, 8100 for AWD models, 7300 for EXT.

Fuel Economy

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
2	2	2	2	2.1

Test AWD regular-length Escalade averaged 13.7-15.6 mpg in city/highway driving, just 12.6 in all-city use. Test ESV averaged 14.9 overall, 12.9 in city only. Test EXT averaged 15.7 mpg in mainly highway work, 11.2 city. Cadillac recommends regular-grade fuel for all.

Ride Quality

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
6	5	6	5	5.8

Wallowy at times and always obviously trucklike. Longer wheelbase of ESV models helps them feel smoother on rough roads. Models with 17-inch tires easily absorb bumps that register more sharply in Platinum Edition with its 20-inch tires. Some testers find Platinum Edition less prone to wallow, however.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
3	3	3	3	3.4

Generally ponderous, with slow response to steering inputs. Steering is light and vague, demands continuous attention on highway. Rear-leveling suspension is standard, improves control with a heavy load. Brakes feel spongy but have adequate power, though don't expect quick, short stops.

Quietness

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
6	6	6	6	6.1

Fine isolation from wind, road, engine ruckus. Removing EXT's rear window and/or dropping midgate increases noise levels, but not unduly so.

Controls

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
7	7	7	7	5.8

Well-arranged dashboard shares layout with Chevy/GMC versions, but Cadillacs get classier gauges. Interior decor the plushest of any GM SUV, but plastic trim, generic controls, and fit/finish keep it a step below that of most import-brand competitors.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
9	9	9	9	8.1

Plenty of head and leg room, vast shoulder width. Plush seats with fold-down armrests. Commanding road view, but small nearby objects are hidden. Helpful audio/visual rear-obstacle-detection system warns of the unseen when backing up.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
8	8	8	8	7.2

All models boast ample 2nd-row adult space. Wagons feature comfortable, heated seats--bench or buckets. EXT rear bench just OK for comfort. Third-row seat roomy in ESV, preteen size in shorter base wagon, not easy to access in either. Narrow door bottoms and lofty step-in hamper entry/exit in all models.

Cargo Room

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
9	6	9	9	8

Little space behind 3rd row in base wagon, useful room in ESV. On both, 3rd-row seat folds for extra volume and removes fairly easily for vast cargo volume--especially with 2nd-row seat folded. EXT hauls what most big pickups can, but rear seating must be sacrificed for bulky or long loads. Folding midgate no major chore, though quicker with two people.

Value within Class

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
8	5	8	6	4.9

Interior execution and steering feel aren't up to the premium prices, but Escalades have plenty of power, no-fuss all-wheel drive, and--for better or worse--styling that exudes attitude. In reality, the premium large-SUV class is about attitude and prestige. There are no true bargains here, since most of these vehicles' tangible assets are available for less money in our large SUV category. Given these qualifiers, Escalade's base and ESV versions are Recommended in this class. The Platinum Edition isn't worth its $11,000 tariff, and the Chevrolet Avalanche delivers most of the EXT's goods at a lower cost.

Total Score

AWD Base	EXT	ESV	ESV Platinum Edition	Class Average
63	56	63	60	56.5

Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		41
Average Score		56
High Score		66

2006 Cadillac Escalade Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 03/01/2006

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2WD Base 4-door wagon	$53,850	$49,811	$875

AWD Base 4-door wagon	$56,405	$52,175	$875

AWD ESV 4-door wagon	$58,805	$54,395	$875

AWD ESV Platinum Edition 4-door wagon	$70,175	$64,912	$875

AWD EXT 4-door crew cab	$53,335	$49,335	$875

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

Base/ESV

Powertrain

6.0-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.

Safety

Dual front airbags, front side airbags, antiskid system, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, rear-obstacle-detection system, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, air conditioning w/tri-zone automatic climate control (including rear controls), power steering, tilt leather-wrapped/wood steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, 14-way power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, pedals, mirrors), center console, cupholders, heated front and 2nd-row seats, 2nd-row bucket seats, 3rd-row split folding seat (Base), 3rd-row folding seat (ESV), 14-inch-longer wheelbase (ESV), wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night and tilt-down back-up aid, outside-mirror-mounted turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, Bose AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month), rear radio controls, analog clock, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage-door opener, trip computer, map lights, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, floormats, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, xenon headlights, fog lights, rear privacy glass, running boards, roof rack.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Front tow hooks, trailer-hitch platform, 7-wire harness, automatic shock absorber control, load-leveling suspension, full-size spare tire, 265/70R17 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.

ESV Platinum Edition adds to ESV:

Powertrain

All-wheel drive.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heated/cooled front and 2nd-row seats, heated/cooled cupholders, power sunroof, navigation system, Bose AM/FM/CD player, rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Deletes: cassette player, in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

275/55R20 tires, chrome alloy wheels.

EXT adds to ESV:

Powertrain

All-wheel drive.

Comfort and Convenience Features

2nd-row split folding seat.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Removable rear window, folding midgate, stowable cargo cover.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Deletes: rear climate controls, 2nd-row-seat heating, 3rd-row folding seat, rear wiper/washer.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Select Edition
Base/ESV, EXT	$4,490	$3,727
Power sunroof, navigation system, AM/FM/CD player, chrome alloy wheels. Replaces standard AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer with AM/FM/CD player. NA Platinum Edition.

Collector's Edition
AWD Base	$3,095	$2,108
AWD Base w/Select Edition	$2,300	$1,615
Ebony interior trim, chrome grille, 275/55R20 tires, chrome alloy wheels.

Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
Base/ESV, EXT	$2,145	$1,780
Replaces standard AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer with AM/FM/CD player. Std. Platinum Edition.

Rear-seat DVD entertainment system
Base/ESV, EXT	$1,295	$1,075
Std. Platinum Edition.

Power sunroof
Base, EXT, ESV	$1,550	$1,287


2nd-row split bench seat
Base, ESV	$0	$0


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Special paint
Base/ESV, ESV Platinum Edition, EXT	$495	$411


White diamond paint
Base/ESV, ESV Platinum Edition, EXT	$995	$826


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Chrome alloy wheels
Base, EXT, ESV	$795	$493

2006 Cadillac Escalade Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Cadillac Escalade 4-door wagon	Cadillac Escalade ESV 4-door wagon	Cadillac Escalade EXT 4-door crew cab

Wheelbase, in.	116.0	130.0	130.0

Overall Length, in.	198.9	221.4	221.0

Overall Width, in.	78.9	79.5	79.5

Overall Height, in.	74.2	75.7	76.0

Curb Weight, lbs.	5537	5761	5814

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	121.0	131.6	--

Standard Payload, lbs.	--	--	1114

Fuel Capacity, gals.	31.0	31.0	31.0

Seating Capacity	8	8	5

Front Head Room, in.	41.0	40.7	41.0

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.0	41.3	41.0

Rear Head Room, in.	39.0	39.0	39.0

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	39.0	39.1	39.0

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	ohv V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	6.0 /364

Horsepower @ rpm.	345 @ 5200

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	380 @ 4000

Availability	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

4-speed automatic	13/17

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Cadillac Escalade 4-door wagon	Cadillac Escalade ESV 4-door wagon	Cadillac Escalade EXT 4-door crew cab

Front Impact, Driver	5	5	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5	5	5

Rollover Resistance	3	3	3

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	None/--	--

Bumper-to-bumper	4/50,000	--

Corrosion	6/100,000	--

Free roadside assistance	4/50,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	Premium Care standard on XLR. Includes oil and oil filter replacement, engine air filter replacement, and passenger compartment air filter replacement at regularly scheduled maintenance intervals for the first four years or 50,000 miles.

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

< 2006 Cadillac Escalade Photos

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