Overview

The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size sport utility vehicle that was first introduced in 1999 as a competitor to the Lincoln Navigator. Sharing platforms with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, the Escalade is built on a truck platform. The Cadillac Escalade ESV is an extended-length version of the Escalade, sharing platforms with the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. For the 2011 model year, Cadillac has upgraded the Escalade's navigation system, and the 6-disc CD changer has been dropped.

The gasoline-powered Escalade is sold in four trim levels: Standard, Luxury, Premium, and Platinum. The hybrid gasoline-electric Escalade Hybrid is offered in Standard and Platinum trim levels. The Escalade's cabin is normally configured for 7 passengers, but an optional second-row bench seat allows for 8 passengers. Standard equipment on the 2011 Cadillac Escalade includes leather upholstery, air conditioning with automatic 3-zone control, power-adjustable pedals, power tailgate, Xenon headlamps, heated first- and second-row seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more. The Escalade Luxury model is upgraded with automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot warning, active suspension, sunroof, power-operated folding second-row seats, 22-inch chrome wheels, and other luxury appointments. The Escalade Premium adds power-retractable running boards and rear-seat DVD entertainment, while the Escalade Platinum is fitted with unique cosmetic touches, upgraded leather upholstery, upgraded infotainment, and more.

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade is offered with one of two engines. The standard engine is a 6.2-liter 8-cylinder, rated at 403 horsepower and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Escalade Hybrid is fitted with a 6.0-liter, 8-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a pair of 60-kilowatt electric motors inside the transmission. The combined power output is 332 horsepower. The hybrid's gearbox is a unique 2-mode continuous electric ratio hybrid transmission with four fixed gears. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional on all models. The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2011 Cadillac Escalade between 13 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, depending on engine and driveline.

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade RWD starts at a base price of around $61,500 and tops out with the Hybrid Platinum AWD, which starts at around $86,000.