Exterior

Built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL, the Escalade ESV stretches 20.4 inches longer than the regular Escalade. Fourteen of those inches go to extending the wheelbase, which allows for larger rear doors unconstrained by wheel wells. Height increases by 1.2 inches, and width remains about the same. Despite the bigger dimensions, curb weight increases by just 126 pounds.

Exterior details are identical to the regular Escalade's, with jeweled headlights flanking Cadillac's now-familiar grille up front, and large, rectangular taillights in back. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard; 22-inch wheels are optional.

    See also:

    Easy Exit Driver Seat
    This feature moves the seat rearward allowing the driver more room to exit the vehicle. To activate, place the ignition in OFF and open the driver door. If the driver door is already open, placin ...

    Auto Wipe in Reverse Gear
    When on, and the front windshield wipers are on, the rear window wiper will turn on automatically when the vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse). Press the MENU/SELECT knob when Auto Wipe in Reverse ...

    Engine & Transmission
    The CTS comes standard with a 3.0-liter V-6 engine, but our test car's optional 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic transmission are a special pair among drivetrains. The transmission's shifts a ...