Used 2016 Cadillac Escalade ESV

While there are a number of full-size luxury SUVs from which to choose, none offer the 2016 Cadillac’s Escalade’s combination of body configurations, power, luxury and sheer presence. If there were an award for most artful use of chrome trim, the Escalade’s grille alone would win it hands down. Where other luxury SUVs seem to be downsizing, the long-wheelbase 2016 Escalade ESV proves bigger is still better, providing even more interior space than the standard-wheelbase Escalade. Both vehicles are powered by a massive 6.2-liter V8 and offer the option of 4-wheel drive (4WD). With a tow rating up to 8,300 pounds, the Escalade takes a back seat to the Lincoln Navigator. However, the Navigator can’t match the Escalade’s advanced safety and technology features.

The gutsy 6.2-liter V8 in the 2016 Cadillac Escalade SUV is much like its host: big, bold and robust. While passing and merging will never be an Escalade shortcoming, the same cannot be said about its fuel economy. Thanks to its Magnetic Ride Control suspension, the Escalade rounds corners with surprising grace. The steering is noticeably heavy, and the big back end can make negotiating tight traffic and crowded parking lots a bit a chore. When equipped with 4WD, the Escalade proves remarkably capable of tackling snow-covered roads and dusty trails, although its size precludes it from venturing too far off road. From behind the wheel, the Escalade feels like piloting a starship, with advanced driver assists, voice-activated functions and a host of luxury and convenience features that go beyond even what our imaginations can dream up.

By far the biggest leap forward for the 2016 Cadillac Escalade is its interior. Boasting soft-touch materials as far as the eye can see, the Escalade wows every time you enter. Leather and real wood give off a more refined feel – something missing from previous-generation Escalades. All models can be had with a 2nd-row bench seat allowing seating for eight passengers in lieu of a pair of bucket seats and seating for seven. Third-row legroom is tight in standard models, but the extended-length 2016 Cadillac ESV SUV rectifies that while also offering considerably more cargo space behind the rear-most seats.

Along with its powerful grille and streamlined rear quarters, the 2016 Cadillac Escalade benefits from the addition of full-LED headlights and taillights. There are four crystals in the headlights that act as the high beams, giving off radiant light. The long vertical taillights also employ LEDs, making it easier to follow the Escalade when weather conditions are less than ideal. While originally installed for aerodynamic purposes, the spoiler also hides the rear windshield-wiper blade. ESV models add even more length, coming in at a total of 224.3 inches compared to the 203.9 inches of the standard model.

FOLD-FLAT 2ND- and 3RD-ROW SEATS
Given the 2016 Cadillac Escalade’s cavernous interior, the ability to fold the 2nd- and 3rd-row seats is an invaluable feature. Simply press the cargo area-mounted switch and both sets fold flush to create a level load floor.

INTERIOR
From its intricate wood inlays and premium leather covering almost every surface, to the dynamic CUE color infotainment screen and Bose audio, the 2016 Escalade SUV from Cadillac redefines what a luxury SUV can be.

You can’t miss the chrome grille, but you might not see the active-aero shutters behind it. Then there’s the heated, power-adjustable seats, 20-inch chrome-plated aluminum wheels, and hands-free power liftgate. A remote starter, tri-zone climate control, and a reconfigurable instrument cluster further the Escalade’s appeal, as does a power-folding 3rd-row seat, heated and cooling front seats, a surround-vision camera, 16-speaker Bose Centerpoint audio, CUE with navigation and a power tilt/telescopic steering column.

Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, adaptive cruise control, side blind-zone alert, cross-traffic alert, and 22-inch machine-finished wheels are all available on the 2016 Cadillac Escalade. For buyers seeking the most indulgence, the new range-topping Platinum line comes with Nappa semi-aniline leather, sueded microfiber headliner and climate-controlled 18-way-adjustable front seats complete with massaging functionality for the driver’s side.

You have one choice when it comes to motivating the 2016 Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV, and that’s the 6.2-liter V8 engine rated at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The standard transmission for both 2WD and 4WD models is an 8-speed automatic with driver shift control and tow/haul mode. Even with the 8-speed transmission, this engine gets parched quickly, and the EPA’s ratings of 15/22 mpg for the rear-wheel-drive (2WD) model and 15/21 mpg for the 4WD variant reflect that. While premium gasoline is recommended, the Escalade’s engine doesn’t require it, so you can save a few cents at the pump.

6.2-liter V8
420 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
460 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 mpg (2WD), 15/21 mpg (4WD), 15/22 mpg (ESV 2WD), 15/21 mpg (ESV 4WD)