Acceleration

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
6	6	6	6

No Escalade Hybrid models have been made available for us to test yet. Non-hybrid versions have ample power for any situation. The transmission changes gears smoothly, though some testers cite an occasional reluctance to downshift for passing. Towing capacity: base wagon, 7400 lb.; EXT, 7600; ESV, 7800.

Fuel Economy

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
3	2	2	2.4

In Consumer Guide tests, regular-length Escalades averaged 15.0-15.6 mpg, just 12.7 mpg in mostly city driving. ESV and EXT models averaged 13.8 mpg. Escalade hybrids use regular-grade gas. Cadillac recommends premium for non-hybrids.

Ride Quality

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
7	8	8	6.2

Escalade's ride is comfortably absorbent, despite its traditional truck-type design and available 22-inch tires. ESV and EXT models have a longer wheelbase and a smoother ride. We've not had an opportunity to test an Escalade Platinum and its Magnetic Ride Control suspension.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
4	4	4	3.3

Though this is a large vehicle, Escalades are stable and confident in low-to-moderate speed changes of direction. The optional 22-inch have little impact on steering or handling. Our testers are divided on the steering feel; some laud its feel and response, but others say it's vague and overassisted. Strong brakes have reassuringly firm pedal feel, but fast stops trigger lots of nosedive.

Quietness

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
7	7	6	6.2

Quiet enough, but only midpack for the premium-large-SUV class. Escalade's V8 is subdued at highway speeds, but roars loudly during rapid acceleration. Its exhaust note is nearly always heard. Wind rush is noticed from the large door mirrors and around the front doors from 65 mph on up.

Controls

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
8	8	8	7

Gauges are large but have blue pointers that can be hard to see in some light conditions. All major controls are within easy reach. The navigation system has a large, easy-read touch screen. It also absorbs, but doesn't complicate, audio functions.

Details

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
8	8	8	7.7

Impressive assembly quality, and mostly top-notch materials, though a few plastic pieces disappoint at these prices.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
9	9	9	8.3

Escalades have big-rig space on wide, comfortable seats, though the tallest drivers may want more head- and legroom. Folding the midgate on the EXT requires moving the front seats forward slightly, reducing legroom. Power-adjustable pedals are standard, but the absence of a telescoping or power-adjustable steering column are surprising at this price level. Visibility astern and to the right-rear is hindered by the roof design, but standard rear obstacle detection and the available rearview camera compensate. This is a tall truck, so some climbing is needed to get in.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
8	8	8	7.3

Another highish step to the 2nd row, where comfortable seats furnish good headroom and legroom. In either wagon body length, the thinly padded 3rd-row bench will cramp those over 5-ft-6, and accessing it demands a low crouch while clearing flipped 2nd-row seats. An available feature includes 2nd-row seats that fold and tumble at the push of a release button (for buckets) or lever (for bench). Unfortunately, the seats must be manually returned to the upright position.

Cargo Room

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
10	10	5	7.4

In the standard-length wagon, only grocery-bag space is available behind the 3rd-row bench. There's plenty of room with those seatbacks flopped down. ESVs have generous space behind the 3rd row. In both wagons, the 3rd-row seat is split into 50/50 sections that don't fold flush with the floor and are heavy and cumbersome to remove or install. (EXT shares Chevrolet Avalanche design, so see the Avalanche report for an evaluation of EXT cargo room.) Good cabin storage includes a large bi-level console bin.

Value within Class

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
9	10	7	5.2

Escalade wagons are basically GMC Yukon Denalis with Cadillac looks, and add a pinch more power, extra standard features, and higher prices. All of GM's large SUVs are solid choices in their market segments, and although Escalade wagons may not be worth every penny of their extra cost over the Denali, they are a Best Buy value compared with other premium large SUVs.

Total Score

AWD Base	ESV	EXT	Class Average
79	80	71	67

Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		55
Average Score		67
High Score		80