
2021 Cadillac Escalade 4WD Sport Platinum
Vehicle Type: SUV/Minivan Gasoline
70
overall score
Category Ranking: 30
Vehicle Price
Base Price:
$102,995
Price as Tested:
$112,095
Fuel Information
Fuel Type: Premium
Fuel Capacity (gal): 24
EPA City mpg: 14
EPA Highway mpg: 19
EPA Combined mpg: 16
Advanced Safety Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control [O]
- Advanced Headlights [S]
- Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
- Blind-Spot Warning [O]
- Forward-Collision Warning [S]
- Lane-Departure Warning [O]
- Lane-Keeping Assistance [O]
- Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [O]
- Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking [O]
- [S] Standard, [O] Optional
NHTSA Rating:
Overall Observations
For 2021, Cadillac redesigned the Escalade, its full-size luxury SUV,
adding exterior styling touches to distinguish it from its Chevrolet
Tahoe and GMC Yukon siblings. The Escalade’s massive grille,
distinctive LED daytime running lights, increased length, and tall
taillights contribute to its unmistakable look.
Under the hood, a 6.2-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic
transmission are standard, as is rear-wheel drive. That engine’s fuel
economy is low (16 mpg in combined city/highway driving); a 3.0-liter
turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine is an option. Inside, the
spacious cabin features more room than the previous version’s for rearseat
occupants and cargo. Adjustable second-row seats and powerfolding
third-row seating add to the interior’s functionality.
Luxury interior touches abound. The attractive digital gauge cluster
and infotainment screens are highlights, as is the Escalade’s nightvision
system, rear-seat entertainment center, and a liftgate you can
open with a wave of your foot. On the road, the independent rear
suspension improves handling. The Escalade’s ride, while smooth and
comfortable, lacks the refinement of class leaders. The big Caddy’s
size is also a liability, making it difficult to maneuver in tight situations.
And despite its 6-figure price tag, most advanced safety features are
optional, not standard.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
Strong Points
- Cavernous interior spacefor passengers and cargo
- New, more fuel-efficientdiesel powertrain option
- Smooth, comfortable ridequality
Weak Points
- Poor fuel economy withstandard V8
- High price
- Hard to maneuver intight spaces
Vehicle Specifications
Model year tested: 2021
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/5
Curb weight (lbs): 6120.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 211.0 / 81.0 / 76.6
Wheelbase (in): 120.9
Number of air bags: 9
Warranty (months/miles): 48/50,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Bridgestone Alenza
Front and rear tire size: 275/50 R22
Max towing capacity (lbs): 8200
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Auto 10-speed
Drivetrain type: All wheel
Engine/motor: 6.2L V8 VVT DI
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 420 @ 5600
Test Data
Test Vehicle Scores
Advanced Safety Features:
7.20Fuel Efficiency:
.00EPA Emissions Score:
3.00Acceleration:
6.84Braking:
5.79Handling:
5.36Ride Quality:
8.29Interior Size:
5.32Easy of Entry and Exit:
7.63Visibility:
7.55Interior Noise:
7.01Cargo Capacity:
6.48
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Car Guide Categories:
- SUV/Minivan |
- Large |
- Midsize |
- Small |
- Pickup |
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