Great Machines: Automobiles Cadillac Escalade
June 3, 2003
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The Escalade’s leather-swathed interior features good materials and craftsmanship, but could be easily mistaken for a nicely equipped Yukon, if not for the liberal application of the Cadillac crest about the cabin (which is embossed on the headrests, for example). And although trimmed in wood and sporting a swell Bulgari clock, the Escalade’s dashboard and center console do not quite live up to the expectations set by the SUV’s stylish sheetmetal. Straightforward and functional, the plasticky radio and climate controls nevertheless appear sadly low-rent when compared to the spectacular look and feel of their counterparts in the Lincoln Navigator. The available XM Satellite Radio, a definite asset, maintains reception even in areas like Malibu, where radio reception is erratic at best, and provides genre-themed channels as well as audio feeds from news channels like CNN and the BBC. It’s a worthwhile feature even if used only occasionally. (Click image to enlarge)
Complimenting a Cadillac’s performance without having to add the phrase “for an American car” is a new—and pleasing—reality. And with the introduction of cars like the superb CTS sedan and the forthcoming XLR convertible, it seems the phrase might be rendered obsolete at Cadillac.
-ENGINE: 6-liter V-8
-POWER: 345 hp at 5,200 rpm
-TORQUE: 380 ft lbs at 4,000 rpm
-ZERO-TO-60 TIME: 8.5 seconds
-TRANSMISSION: 4-speed automatic
-WHEELBASE: 116 inches
-CURB WEIGHT: 5,641 pounds
-BASE PRICE: $53,680
Cadillac, 800.333.4CAD, www.cadillac.com
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