The Escalade-V is a real full-size SUV powerhouse, packing the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 from the CT5-V Blackwing, but tuned to 682 hp!
The American carmaker is known for creating some of the most exquisite and luxurious cars in the 20th century. These include the Eldorado, Coupe DeVille, and Fleetwood, all popular among movie stars, pop music icons like Elvis Presley, and other VIPs.
However, SUVs have risen in popularity over the years, and the Escalade is one of the most compelling premium options available in the market today. Luckily for us, the latest generation model still comes with a classic supercharged V8, keeping the spirits of the humble ICE alive.
Naturally for a Cadillac, much attention went to the design and attention to detail inside. The Escalade-V has a bold and muscular front fascia featuring a large intake grille with the brand logo in the middle, contrasted by sleek LED headlamps. A tall set of vertically stacked DRLs, a radiator intake, and air curtains add extra contrast.
Furthermore, 22-inch alloys add to the commanding stance, accompanied by roof rails and a V-badge on each of the front doors. Meanwhile, the rear end is accentuated by an aggressive quad exhaust system and slender vertical taillights. Finally, another V-spec accent includes the bright and sporty red calipers on all four wheels.
However, the true crown jewel of any V-badged Caddy is undoubtedly the engine. And, of course, Cadillac decided to bypass the environment-friendly trends and go full bore with a good ol’ internal-combustion unit.
It’s not just any engine, though. Notably, the Escalade-V proudly flaunts a massive 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that screams out an incredible 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque! This handbuilt unit is similar to one on the manual CT5-V Blackwing, although it receives a large 2.65-L R2650 TVS Supercharger that can generate up to 10 pounds of boost when spinning at its 13,200 rpm redline. Cadillac reinforced the Escalade-V V8 with a forged crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons to cope with the increased pressure.
The engine is hooked to a 10-speed automatic transmission driving all four wheels via an active torque vectoring system. Crunching these technicalities into numbers, the SUV can go from 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds and hit the ¼ mile in just 12.74 seconds! Not bad for a large SUV, eh?
Cadillac also endowed the Escalade-V with a load of tech features under its belt. For instance, the standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 system works in tandem with the adaptive air suspension, maximizing the responsiveness and grip while keeping the ride plush and relaxing.
Meanwhile, the cabin area includes semi-aniline upholstery on all three rows with a power massage function (front row) and a heated steering wheel — all with a Dark Auburn or Black trim with exquisite Zebra Wood touches. Additionally, the technology pack covers amenities such as a 38-inch curved OLED panel (drivers + infotainment panel), a standard phone connectivity suite, and a 36-speaker AKG sound system.
Last but not least, the Escalade-V also includes an advanced Super Cruise system allowing hands-free driving for over 200,000 miles of roads across North America.
Expect the full-size SUV to be priced well beyond $100,000, which sounds about right. After all, the Cadillac Escalade-V doesn’t have a real competition — it’s currently the only vehicle of its kind with that much power, and the supercharged V8 is a real gem!
Gallery: Cadillac Escalade-V
