Overview

As in previous years, there are three Escalade models to choose from: standard-length Escalade, extended-length Escalade ESV, and the Escalade EXT sport-utility truck. Cadillac also offers the Escalade Hybrid and Escalade Platinum Hybrid, both of which offer a 50-percent fuel-economy improvement in city driving over non-hybrid models. For 2010, the Escalade's 6.2-liter V-8 engine is equipped with fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology. Other changes include side thorax air bags added to the front outboard seats and a revised inner door design for enhanced side-impact protection.

• 6.2-liter engine now equipped with Active Fuel Management technology, which helps increase fuel efficiency by shutting off half of the engine's cylinders in certain driving conditions
• New exterior color: Silver Lining replaces Quick Silver and Blue Chip
• Locking steering column
• Previous Platinum-model clock standard in all models
• USB connection in center console enables stored audio files to play through the audio system and battery charging for some handheld devices
• Side thorax air bags added to front outboard seats
• Revised inner door design for enhanced side-impact protection
• Battery-saver mode shuts off power when battery gets low due to extended accessory use
• Revised parking brake release
• Escalade Hybrid gets new 3.08 axle ratio
• Escalade Hybrid's 6.0-liter V-8 engine now E85 flex-fuel capable

Cadillac entered the SUV market in 1999 with the Escalade, and the model has grown larger and more luxurious since that time. The 2010 Cadillac Escalade is a high-performance seven- or eight-seat vehicle powered by a V8 engine. A hybrid version is also available. In either configuration, design and features mostly carry over from 2009, but the 2010 Escalade adds cylinder-deactivation technology and several safety features.

The 2010 Cadillac Escalade comes in four trim levels as a gasoline-powered vehicle. As a hybrid, it's offered only in the base and Platinum trim levels. Standard equipment on the base level includes 18-in. wheels, adaptive suspension with electronically controlled shocks, rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated 14-way power front seats, and many other power features. A navigation system and a rear-view camera are also standard. The Luxury and Premium levels add features such as upgraded wheels, suspension, and running boards, as well as a rear-seat entertainment system. The Platinum level includes all the features of the Luxury and Premium trim levels, plus heated and cooled cupholders, a dual-screen entertainment system, and LED headlights.

The powertrain for all gas-powered Escalades is a 6.2-liter 403-hp V8 engine, coupeed with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. EPA estimates are 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. The hybrid receives a 6.0-liter V8 engine that generates 322 hp, along with two 60-kilowatt electric motors and an onboard battery pack. The EPA estimates that the hybrid delivers 21 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Properly equipped, the gas-powered Escalade can tow up to 8,300 lbs, and the hybrid can tow 5,800 lbs. Each features a full complement of standard safety features and receive five stars in frontal- and side-impact testing from NHTSA.

Base MSRP for the Escalade ranges from $62,495 to $84,125.