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Cadillac Escalade - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade ranks 2 out of 9 Luxury Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 72 published reviews and test drives of the Cadillac Escalade, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Cadillac Escalade is at the top of the luxury large SUV class with its stylish looks and powerful performance.  

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade is largely unchanged since the model underwent a redesign in 2007. Long a favorite status vehicle, the Escalade also makes sense for buyers who need to haul a lot of people or tow boats and horse trailers, and want to do both in style. "Imposing, luxurious and powerful, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade is one of the best full-size luxury SUVs on the market, though rising gas prices may temper its appeal," says Edmunds

The Escalade can seat up to eight people and comes in four models: the Escalade, Escalade ESV (an extended version), the Escalade EXT (which trades the third row seat and enclosed cargo area for a short truck bed) and the Escalade Hybrid. Buyers can expect their gas bills to be as grand as the bling on the Escalade.  While the SUV is reasonably fuel-efficient for its size, its 12 city/19 highway estimated fuel economy may be enough to give some buyers pause. However, if you need the Escalade's size and want its luxury, you can take heart in the fact that its fuel economy, though not great, is among the best in a very thirsty class. If you care about saving gas, check out the new-for-2009 Escalade Hybrid.

Even if you can't save at the gas station, you may be able to save some money at the dealership. General Motors, Cadillac's parent company, recently declared bankruptcy.  While that leads to some uncertainty for Cadillac buyers (though warranties should be honored), it also means some steep discounts for people who can handle the unknown and negotiate hard. Use our free dealer quote tool to start the negotiation process on a new Escalade by getting competing quotes from dealers in your area.

When checking out the Escalade, also consider the Toyota Land Cruiser, which offers more off-road capability and the Lincoln Navigator, which has a more useable third row.

• "Escalade wagons are basically GMC Yukon Denalis with Cadillac looks, and add a pinch more power, extra standard features, and higher prices. All of GM's large SUVs are solid choices in their market segments, and although Escalade wagons may not be worth every penny of their extra cost over the Denali, they are Recommended picks in the premium large SUV class." -- Consumer Guide
• "Fast-living rappers and bling-dazzled celebrities swooned over the original Escalade, but, in addition to more power and a greater length, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade stresses finesse over flashiness." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The full-size Cadillac Escalade SUV has appealed to celebrities and affluent 20-somethings since its 2001 debut. In the spirit of excess, the 2009 Escalade boasts available 22-inch wheels and a 6.2-liter V-8 with more than 400 horsepower. It can be configured to seat eight people and is available with two- or all-wheel drive." -- Cars.com

Escalade Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)

Though some buyers may find its size daunting, reviewers report that the Escalade has handling and power that are easy to live with. Motor Week says the Escalade offers a "driving experience that's as close to a premium luxury sedan as any SUV we've ever tried."  continue

Escalade Exterior - 9.1 (Excellent)

For many reviews (and buyers) the Escalade's appear is in its bejeweled exterior, which is now available with 22-inch wheels from the factory. "For many buyers, the Escalade's unmistakable look will be enough to clinch the deal. Edgy and intimidating, this is hands-down the best-looking Escalade ever," says Edmunds  continue

Escalade Interior - 8.7 (Very Good)

With the seating for up to eight people and a host of luxury features standard, the Escalade can transport a crowd in comfort and style. continue

Escalade Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade does very well in federal government crash tests. It also offers safety features similar to others in its class.  continue

Escalade Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Escalade comes with GM's 10-year/100,000-mile transferable powertrain warranty, which matches the warranty of many imports and lasts longer than those of the typical luxury cars.  continue