Acceleration
"Ample, despite occasional transmission delays in full-throttle downshifts. Test drives support Cadillac's claims of around 8.5 sec 0-60 mph. Towing capacities are 7400 lb for 2WD Escalades, 8100 for AWD models, 7300 for EXT."

Value
"Interior execution and steering feel aren't up to the premium prices, but Escalades have plenty of power, no-fuss all-wheel drive, and--for better or worse--styling that exudes attitude. In reality, the premium large-SUV class is about attitude and prestige. There are no true bargains here, since most of these vehicles' tangible assets are available for less money in our large SUV category. Given these qualifiers, Escalade's base and ESV versions are Recommended in this class. The Platinum Edition isn't worth its $11,000 tariff, and the Chevrolet Avalanche delivers most of the EXT's goods at a lower cost."

Ride
"Wallowy at times and always obviously trucklike. Longer wheelbase of ESV models helps them feel smoother on rough roads. Models with 17-inch tires easily absorb bumps that register more sharply in Platinum Edition with its 20-inch tires. Some testers find Platinum Edition less prone to wallow, however."

Economy
"Test AWD regular-length Escalade averaged 13.7-15.6 mpg in city/highway driving, just 12.6 in all-city use. Test ESV averaged 14.9 overall, 12.9 in city only. Test EXT averaged 15.7 mpg in mainly highway work, 11.2 city. Cadillac recommends regular-grade fuel for all."

Noise
"Fine isolation from wind, road, engine ruckus. Removing EXT's rear window and/or dropping midgate increases noise levels, but not unduly so."

Comfort - Front
"Plenty of head and leg room, vast shoulder width. Plush seats with fold-down armrests. Commanding road view, but small nearby objects are hidden. Helpful audio/visual rear-obstacle-detection system warns of the unseen when backing up."

Comfort - Rear
"All models boast ample 2nd-row adult space. Wagons feature comfortable, heated seats--bench or buckets. EXT rear bench just OK for comfort. Third-row seat roomy in ESV, preteen size in shorter base wagon, not easy to access in either. Narrow door bottoms and lofty step-in hamper entry/exit in all models."

Controls
"Well-arranged dashboard shares layout with Chevy/GMC versions, but Cadillacs get classier gauges. Interior decor the plushest of any GM SUV, but plastic trim, generic controls, and fit/finish keep it a step below that of most import-brand competitors."

Cargo Room
"Little space behind 3rd row in base wagon, useful room in ESV. On both, 3rd-row seat folds for extra volume and removes fairly easily for vast cargo volume--especially with 2nd-row seat folded. EXT hauls what most big pickups can, but rear seating must be sacrificed for bulky or long loads. Folding midgate no major chore, though quicker with two people."