2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review reveals the next generation of luxury.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review

The Escalade is a luxury SUV that was introduced for 1999. It soon became a favorite among both rappers and TV mobsters. The original was heavily based on the GMC Yukon Denali, but the second generation, which debuted in 2002, was a completely fresh design. Rear-wheel drive became standard along with a 5.3L V8. Four-wheel stability control and adjustable pedals came in 2003. Second-row bucket seats and tire pressure monitoring became standard for 2004. The Escalade EXT pickup truck debuted in 2002, followed by the extended-length ESV SUV in 2003. The Escalade has been redesigned for 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Cadillac Escalade ESV is an uncompromising luxury SUV. It makes no apologies for its enormous size or extravagant list of features. There are very suitable alternatives that cost less, but none offer everything the ESV does. If you have been searching for the ultimate in American luxury, this may be it.

What's New For 2007:

The Escalade is all-new for 2007. The interior has been expanded and refined. Mechanical improvements include a 6.2L V8 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Escalade earned 3 out of 5 stars in J.D. Power's initial reliability survey. The original Escalade had issues with engine stalling, hard starting, vibrating hoods, bad ignition switches, vehicle noise, and poor shifting. It was recalled three times. The second-gen Escalade fared a bit better, having problems with damaged wiring, nonfunctional blower motors, sticky transmissions, and excessive oil consumption. However, it was recalled a total of nine times. Expect below-average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Escalade earned a perfect 5-star rating in government frontal crash tests. Side crash test information is not available. IIHS data is not available. Side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, a rollover sensor, rear parking sensors, and stability control come standard. The side airbags will deploy in the case of a frontal collision, and seatbelt pre-tensioners activate in the case of a rear collision.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ Spacious interior
+ Solid safety features

Cons
- Incomplete safety picture
- As awkward as it is big
- 4WD not standard

Head-To-Head Competition:

There's no shortage of large luxury SUVs. The BMW X5 costs $5,000 less but lacks the ESV's engine power, DVD player, CD changer, payload capacity, and roof rack. The Hummer H2 Adventure costs $3,000 less but offers much more payload capacity. However, it lacks a DVD player, side airbags, and about 80 hp. The Mercedes-Benz GL 450 costs nearly $5,000 less and has a seven-speed transmission, and a sunroof. But its engine is smaller, and it lacks the Escalade's leather seats and DVD player.

What Others Are Saying:

"Inside and out, the new Escalade is handsome and will no doubt remain one of Detroit's most iconic vehicles. But will remaining an icon translate into paying back part of a huge investment? SUV sales are working against the new Escalade, but this esteemed vehicle is sure not to be a flop." -

"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

"Unbeatable if your SUV needs include flash as well as function." - Car and Driver

Read more about the 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.

Published on Sunday, June 10, 2007 - Email to a friend

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