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2009 Cadillac Escalade Full Review
Date Published: 3/12/08
Also in the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Review:
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Cadillac Escalade Full Review
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2009 Cadillac Escalade
Sneak Peek
The 2009 Cadillac Escalade adds a gas/electric hybrid model to its roster. Otherwise, these premium large SUVs should see no major changes for 2009. Escalade is basically an upscale version of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. It's available as a wagon in standard trim or a long-wheelbase ESV. The Escalade EXT is a crew-cab pickup truck that's similar in design to the Chevrolet Avalanche. EXTs have a folding midgate separating the cab from the cargo bed. Standard-length and ESV wagons seat seven in a 2-2-3 layout, or they seat eight with an optional three-person 2nd-row bench seat. Standard Escalades are available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. EXTs are AWD only. All Escalade models share a 403-hp 6.2-liter V8 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is only offered as a standard-length wagon with rear- or AWD. Like the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon hybrids, Escalade uses a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 engine paired with an electric motor for 332 hp. The hybrid system allows Escalade to run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. No plug-in charging is necessary. It has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features for all Escalades include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Leather upholstery and power-adjustable pedals are standard. The Escalade Platinum is a top-end model that offers unique trim and other high-tech features such as LED headlamps. Also standard on the Platinum is GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which uses sensors to detect road conditions and vary suspension firmness to balance ride and handling.
News
Forget about the rumored high-performance V-Series versions of the just-redesigned Escalade trio. Cadillac says they just aren't needed. But spies think the regular models will be freshened for model-year 2010. That assumes sales hold up well enough to justify the expense, and that's as uncertain right now as what will happen to gas prices.
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2009 Cadillac Escalade Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Fuel economy |
| Ride/handling | Rear-seat comfort (3rd row) |
| Passenger room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 5.9 |
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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
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
Impressive assembly quality, and mostly top-notch materials, though a few plastic pieces disappoint at these prices.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Impressive assembly quality, and mostly top-notch materials, though a few plastic pieces disappoint at these prices.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
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)
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 10 | 10 | 5 | 7.2 |
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
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.
| AWD Base | ESV | EXT | Class Average |
| 9 | 10 | 7 | 5.9 |
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 | 66.6 |
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 55 | |
| Average Score | 66 | |
| High Score | 80 |
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2009 Cadillac Escalade Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/31/2007
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
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
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 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. | 202.5 | 222.9 | 222.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 79.0 | 79.1 | 79.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 74.3 | 75.5 | 74.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 5818 | 5761 | 5814 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 108.9 | 137.4 | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 26.0 | 31.0 | 31.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.3 | 41.1 | 41.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | 41.3 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.5 | 38.5 | 38.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.0 | 39.5 | 39.1 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V8 | ohv V8/electric | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 6.2 /378 | 6.0 /364 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 403 @ 5700 | 332 @ 5100 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 417 @ 4300 | 367 @ 4100 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 6-speed automatic | 12/18 | --/-- |
| CVT automatic | --/-- | NA/NA |
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 |
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
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%.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Cadillac Escalade Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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