Exterior & Styling

When I saw the first press images of the all-new Escalade, I was aghast. The new front grille seemed way too extravagant for what is essentially an all-American SUV. Then I saw it in black-metallic painted flesh at the Detroit auto show and realized that this would be a big seller. I've only seen black Escalades on the streets, and I was delighted to receive the dark blue test vehicle. How do you tone down all the chrome? Get a subtle color like this blue. Overall I'm a bigger fan of the traditional look of the Range Rover, but it's easy to see why people are attracted to this Escalade.

The front is overwhelmed by the multi-faceted chrome grille, so much so that you barely notice the huge headlights. In back, vertical LED taillights add a high-end touch and — if you think about it — tie this un-car-like SUV right into the rest of Cadillac's lineup. Large chrome wheels finish off the package, and while I would opt for something more practical, they weren't at all gaudy. Even as someone well outside any of the target markets for the Escalade — I'm neither hip nor old enough to be a former Cadillac owner — I felt comfortable being seen behind the wheel.

    See also:

    Roadside Service (Mexico)
    As a new owner, your vehicle is automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program. The services are available at no cost under the terms and conditions of the program. The Roadside Assist ...

    Navigation System
    Use of the navigation system may result in the storage of destinations, addresses, telephone numbers, and other trip information. See Using the Navigation System   for information on store ...

    Window Lockout
    (Window Lockout): This feature prevents the rear passenger windows from operating, except from the driver position. Press to activate the rear window lockout switch. The LED light comes ...