Cadillac Escalade
The 2026 Escalade model line includes the extended-length Escalade ESV, as well as Luxury, Sport, Platinum Luxury, Platinum Sport, and V versions of each. Buyers have a choice between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive for all trims except for the V-Series, which is only available in all-wheel drive.
All Escalades have a 6.2L V8 engine. With an aluminum block and heads, direct injection, variable valve timing, this is a big V8, but a thoroughly modern one. The engine makes 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque; and thanks to an Active Fuel Management system, which will run the engine on four of its cylinders during coasting or some lower-speed cruising conditions, it returns EPA ratings of up to 15 mpg city, 19 highway in rear-wheel drive only.
The optional 6.2L V8 features a supercharged engine tuned to 682 horsepower.
The Escalade is built on a fully boxed frame, which provides the strength needed for towing and larger payloads. The Premium Luxury trims add Magnetic Ride Control, a system that uses special shocks that can change their damping characteristics in just a fraction of a second, allowing softness to soak up rough roads and firming up for quick emergency maneuvers when needed. Meanwhile, active noise cancellation technology and special acoustic-laminate glass help keep it quiet inside.
Cadillac Escalade ESV models are about 15-inches longer than the standard Escalade; with a wheelbase that's 13-inches longer. Both offer seating capacity of up to eight, depending on the layout. Seating space is technically the same, the key difference is that ESV models offer easier access to the third-row seats, as well as more than double the cargo space behind the third row. Throughout the Escalade's interior the traditional luxury ambiance hasn't been forgotten. The cabin is plush and well-appointed, with cut-and-sewn materials and real wood trim.
Meanwhile, there's also the Cadillac User Experience, a system that uses sophisticated voice controls combined with a capacitive screen at the center of the instrument panel, it even incorporates proximity sensing - showing different menus depending on how near the user's hand is to the display. The system includes Siri Eyes Free compatibility with the ability to read incoming text. The OnStar 4G LTE data connection is also available, which turns the vehicle into a high-speed mobile hotspot.
All Escalades come with a comprehensive airbag system that includes seat-mounted side airbags, front driver and passenger frontal and curtain and side-impact airbags for all occupants. An available Driver Awareness Package includes forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and safety alert seat that transmits warnings to the driver with patterned vibrations. A front and rear automatic braking system works to avoid or mitigate the severity of a potential accident.
The 2026 Escalade's base Luxury trims come standard with 22-inch wheels, power folding heated mirrors, LED headlights, LED brake lights, heated front seats, driver seat memory, keyless entry with push button start, and rain detecting wipers.
The infotainment system includes 21-speaker sound system, 16.90 touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth, two 12v power outlets, five USB ports, and Cadillac's OLED gauge display.
The Escalade comes standard with many safety features which include surround vision camera system, front and rear parking sensors, front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist, Teen Driver mode, Stabilitrak stability control, and tire fill alert.
The Platinum Luxury trim adds much more standard equipment on the 2026 Escalade, this includes panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control with separate rear HVAC controls, head-up display, surround view cameras, front and rear parking sensors, side blind zone alert, and rear cross traffic alert.
The Platinum Sport trim adds more higher-end features including 38-speaker sound system, rear wireless headphones, adaptive cruise control, and luxury air ride suspension.