2008 Cadillac Escalade Review
The Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV that debuted in 1999. It was redesigned in 2002, with a larger ESV version debuting for 2003. The third and current generation debuted in 2007. Last year, a 6.2 liter V8 with 403 hp was added. Plus, interior and exterior styling were refreshed and refined.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Cadillac Escalade is impressively large, bold and luxurious-one could even say “blingtastic”. Unfortunately, while it’s been dramatically improved for this generation, it still has several crippling flaws. Build quality is not as high as it should be, and there are several equally competent competitors that sell for less. But if you’re looking for a powerful engine and serious street cred, the Escalade is still where it’s at.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Escalade 3 stars for mechanical quality and 3.5 stars for design quality. Problems with the first Escalade included stalling, hard starting, poor shifting and vehicle noise. It was recalled three times. The last Escalade had issues with oil consumption, failing ignition switches, inoperative blower motors and vehicle noise. It was recalled nine times for issues including fracturing power steering hoses, corroding tailgate supports, weak side doors, fractured brake seals and faulty power steering brackets. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Escalade earned perfect 5 star government crash test scores. IIHS scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability and traction control comes standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Beefy engine
+ Prestigious & Stylish
+ Roomy
Cons
- High Price Tag
- Worrisome reliability
- Poor gas mileage
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Infiniti QX56 costs a couple thousand less, but has 80 less hp. The Lincoln Navigator with 4WD costs several thousand less, but has 100 less hp. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport costs several thousand more and has 100 less hp, but includes 4WD and a moonroof.
What Others Are Saying:
“The 2007 Cadillac Escalade will be the only choice for a determined segment of buyers, but many other vehicles match its capabilities and offer better value.” – C|Net
“At least the build quality sucks. No really. The Escalade seems specifically constructed to give ammunition to those carless, dealerphobic, stock-shorting curmudgeons who dare call GM’s best efforts “90%” vehicles. The ashtray unfolds gracefully, triggered by the world’s flimsiest metal catch. The pedals move, but not the steering wheel. The plastics look soft, but feel like fossilized elephant dung. The chairs squish reassuringly, but offer as much lateral support as a Ziploc bag. Everywhere you look there are examples of NQE (Not Quite Engineering), constantly reminding you that there’s $10k profit in this machine that could have been spent on, well, you. Or, if you prefer, telling you to go and buy a virtually identical high-spec Tahoe.” – The Truth About Cars
“Overall I liked the Escalade. If it weren’t for the initial cost and dismal mileage, I could easily live with it. It drives extremely well for its size. It’s comfortable, good-lookin’, convenient and luxurious.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Cadillac Escalade at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.
