Spotlight: 2017 Cadillac Escalade
Since it was first introduced in 1999, the Cadillac Escalade has been synonymous with SUV luxury.
Originally designed and produced to compete with Ford’s luxury brand Lincoln in the full-size luxury SUV category, the Escalade is now in the middle of its fourth generation.
Nearly all model years have been met with positive reviews, and the 2017 is certainly no exception.
Available in eight different trims, the 2017 Cadillac Escalade continues to build on the reputation that Cadillac has earned with the advanced engineering, cutting-edge technology and first-class amenities it has packed into each model since its inception.
Here’s a closer look the features that solidify the 2017 model as the best when it comes to luxury SUVs.
Under the hood
The standard Escalade model comes equipped with a powerful 6.2 liter, V8 engine capable of generating up to 420 horsepower. It offers an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting between gears to enhance the driving experience. Bottom line – the Escalade offers truck-like power, but without the ruggedness of the drive.
First-class amenities
As drivers have come to expect from Cadillac, the 2017 Escalade offers no shortage of first-class features. Some that come standard include heated and cooled front and second row seats, a heated steering wheel, an in-dash DVD entertainment system for rear passengers, interior power outlets, a rear instrument panel, leather seats and a wireless charging feature that will charge mobile devices using induction technology.
The Escalade Premium Luxury model even goes as far as to offer a 9-inch overhead screen for rear passengers that’s compatible with Blu-Ray discs and wireless headphones.
One other innovative feature that’s worth noting is Magnetic Ride Control. This feature reads the condition of the road that is being driven on, and works to automatically adjust the suspension based on how bumpy or slick it is, thereby enabling a smooth ride no matter where you are.
Safety
The Escalade is already a big vehicle – even as far as SUVs are concerned. Specifically, it’s about 5.2 meters (203.9 inches) in length and more than 2 meters (80.5 inches) wide. This large size alone is a key safety feature with the Escalade, but it’s hardly the only one.
In addition to standard features like air bags and a rear camera, the vehicle also comes with more advanced touches like lane change assist, lane departure alerts, automatic braking and an alert feature that works to get the driver’s attention via seat vibrations when potential hazards are detected.
The Escalade has also been designed with what Cadillac calls “surround vision.” This is made possible with the use of four strategically placed cameras that essentially work to create a bird’s eye view of the nearby surroundings around the SUV. It’s particularly helpful in parking or narrow driving situations.
Additionally, the HUD, or Head-Up Display, feature works to display select information on the windshield, enabling drivers to stay informed while keeping their eyes on the road.
Luxurious look
Chrome wheels have been one of the features that have helped establish the Escalade’s exterior in the collective unconscious since the very beginning. They still define the vehicle to this day, though the wheel sizes vary between the different trim levels of the vehicle.
Some other high-class luxury features include LED cornering lamps and light-up door handles, both features available on the Premium Luxury edition of the vehicle. The Platinum model also features a unique, stylish chrome front grille.
Ready to test-drive an Escalade?
Did you know the Escalade is an award-winner? Consumer Guide named the 2017 Cadillac Escalade one of its “Best Buys” for the third consecutive year. And the Escalade was also lauded by U.S. News & World Report as “Best Luxury Large SUV for Families.”
It’s easy to see why. After all, when it comes to full-size SUVs, you can’t do much better than the Escalade—where power and sophistication meet luxury.
For more information on the 2017 Cadillac Escalade and everything it has to offer—or to get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself, contact us or stop into the Budds’ showroom today. We’ve loved the Escalade ever since it debuted on the market almost two decades ago, ago and each new model has reset the standard for luxury SUVs.
We think you’ll love it too.